The Role of the Camera Operator | Rodrigo Gutierrez and Peter Robertson
Average salary
The actions to take to begin a career in camera operation are as follows:
1. Earn your high school diploma
Typically, the minimum educational requirement for camera operators is a high school diploma. Also necessary for enrolling in college cinematography courses is a diploma, GED, or equivalent.
2. Complete educational requirements
Camera operators often need to earn a bachelors degree. A bachelor’s degree can help you pass the initial resume screening and possibly land an interview. Many four-year schools offer programs in film and television production.
Sometimes an associate degree with coursework in journalism, film/TV, and videography can replace the need for a four-year degree. Some universities also offer cinematography certificate programs that instruct students in shot composition, camera operation, and lighting technique.
Also available to camera operators are workshops led by experts in the field, as well as internships and apprenticeships. Workshops are good for learning specialized equipment like the Steadicam.
3. Develop skills for the job
Focus on developing the abilities necessary to be a successful camera operator. To stand out, you’ll need both hard (education and knowledge) and soft (personal characteristics) skills. Important skills for camera operators include:
4. Learn about specific requirements for the job
There are a few things that a professional camera operator might need but wouldn’t in another job:
5. Get relevant work experience
Look into workshops or college courses that provide opportunities for practical training. Some even provide work placement. Additionally, you can develop your expertise and network of contacts by:
What does a camera operator do?
In television and movies, camera operators are needed to get the shots that help tell the story. They prepare the shots, take pictures, set up and take down the equipment, fix technical and lighting issues, and plan the shots.
Depending on the kind of production, a camera operator may play a variety of roles, including:
Camera operator career progression
Knowing a profession’s career path can help you determine if a job is a long-term match for you. Heres what a camera operators looks like:
FAQ
How long does it take to be a camera operator?
A cameraman career can start after earning an associate’s degree in video production, though a bachelor’s degree is highly desirable for those trying to break into the film or video editing industry. Depending on the level of the award, programs could last between two and four years.
How do I become a camera operation?
An associate’s degree in video production or a bachelor’s degree in television production may be necessary for some camera operator jobs, but you can get started with just a high school diploma and a solid understanding of how to operate a camera. Find an assistant position.
Is camera operator a good career?
In the US, a camera operator makes an average yearly salary of $33,426. Numerous elements, including experience, production type, project budget, and location, affect salary levels. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 18% growth in employment between 2019 and 2029, which is a great sign for the job market.
