Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film
Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions.
Common Job Titles
- Camera Operator
- Cameraman
- Television News Photographer
- Videographer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign creative camera shots and visual sequences collaborating with directors and production teams to achieve artistic vision.Advanced
- Hands-onOperate television, video, and film cameras in studio and field production environments, adjusting focus, exposure, and composition in real-time.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate camera movements and framing using tripods, dollies, cranes, and unmanned aerial vehicles during dynamic shooting scenarios.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate lighting conditions and exposure settings using light meters and monitors to ensure optimal image quality across varied production environments.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate creative input from directors and crew members while maintaining effective interpersonal relationships on fast-paced production sets.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess scene composition and visual storytelling elements making independent decisions under time pressure during live broadcasts and field shoots.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute remote camera operations and drone piloting following safety protocols and regulatory requirements for unmanned aerial vehicle operations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of video editing software and post-production workflows using Adobe Creative Cloud, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve to support production continuity.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate camera equipment and monitoring systems ensuring technical accuracy and compliance with broadcast standards.Developing
- MindsetEngage in continuous learning of emerging camera technologies and production techniques adapting to evolving industry standards and equipment innovations.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
24,460
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,240. 25th percentile: U.S. $48,060. 50th percentile: U.S. $68,810. 75th percentile: U.S. $102,400. 90th percentile: U.S. $131,420. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $36,240 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $131,420 |
| Workers on average earn | $79,870 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language4.3/5
- Computers and Electronics4.0/5
- Communications and Media3.8/5
- Telecommunications3.8/5
- Engineering and Technology2.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- TikTok
Technology Skills
- Adobe Dreamweaver
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Apple Final Cut Pro
- Apple Final Cut Studio
- Avid Technology audio visual editing software
- DaVinci Resolve
- Email software
- Google Drive
Tools & Equipment
- Audio equalizers
- Automatic film processors
- Batteries
- Cable compression crimp tools
- Circumaural headphones
- DJI Go 4
- DJI Pilot
- Digital light meters