Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film
People classed as Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions. The skills rated most useful are active listening, speaking, and reading comprehension. Expect to compose and frame each shot, applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by directors. The strongest interest signal is Artistic (5.0 of 7), then Realistic (4.9) and Conventional, which gives it the code ARC. Getting in usually takes one or two years of vocational training, an apprenticeship or an associate’s degree, a level O*NET calls medium preparation. It tends to suit people who want creative work with room for original expression, and it offers little for anyone seeking helping, teaching or caring for people.
What they do
Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions.
Main tasks
- Compose and frame each shot, applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by directors.
- Operate television or motion picture cameras to record scenes for television broadcasts, advertising, or motion pictures.
- Adjust positions and controls of cameras, printers, and related equipment to change focus, exposure, and lighting.
- Confer with directors, sound and lighting technicians, electricians, and other crew members to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, desired effects, camera movements, and lighting requirements.
- Operate zoom lenses, changing images according to specifications and rehearsal instructions.
- Observe sets or locations for potential problems and to determine filming and lighting requirements.
Skills
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Coordination
- Time Management
Who this career fits
May suit you if
- You want room to make something in your own way.
- You like ending the day with a physical result you can point to.
- You are willing to put in a year or two of focused training.
- You are comfortable relying on active listening and speaking.
May not suit you if
- You prefer clear instructions to open creative briefs.
- You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 1.8 out of 7 here.
- You need to start within a few months, with no training period.
Interest profile
O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code ARC takes the three highest, and Artistic comes first here.
Preparation
Medium preparation. Expect vocational school, an apprenticeship, related experience or an associate’s degree, usually one or two years in total.
Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.
Also called
- Camera Operator
- Cameraman
- Master Control Operator (MCO)
- News Videographer
- Production Technician
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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.