Camera Operators

Employers

Approximately 23,940 television, video, and movie camera operators work in the United States. The majority of salaried camera operators work in the film and television industry at TV stations or film studios. Most jobs are found in large, urban areas. Some camera operators are self-employed and contract with documentary or independent filmmakers, advertising agencies, and trade show or convention sponsors. Some camera operators may work for the federal or local government.

Starting Out

An entry-level job as a production assistant is a typical first step for camera operators and provides the opportunity to learn how film and video production works. Production assistants usually begin with assignments such as setting up or loading film into cameras and adjusting or checking lighting. With experience, the assistant may participate in decisions about what to photograph or how to film a particular scene.

Before you receive any paying jobs, you may have to work for a while as a volunteer or intern on a film project. You can surf the Internet for postings of openings on film productions, or contact your state's film commission. Competition for camera operator jobs will be keen. Those with the most experience and advanced training in the evolving digital technologies being used in film, television, business, and educational productions, should have an advantage in finding positions.