Description

Film and video camera operators operate motion picture and video cameras and related equipment to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts. They are employed by television networks and stations, motion picture and video production companies and in-house communications facilities of large corporations.

Job Titles

• Assistant camera operator
• Camera operator
• Electronic news gathering (ENG) camera operator
• Film camera operator
• Motion picture camera operator
• Studio camera operator
• Television camera operator
• Video camera operator

Main Duties

• Meet with director and senior members of camera crew to discuss assignment and determine filming sequences, camera movements and picture composition
• Select and set up camera equipment to be used and attach lens, filters and film magazine to camera
• Adjust focus, exposure, lighting and other camera settings
• Operate film or video camera to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts
• Label and record contents of exposed film, and complete report sheets
• Test, maintain and store equipment
• May operate unmanned aerial vehicle/drone to capture aerial films of the landscape or any subject.

Workplaces

• In-house communications facilities
• Motion picture and video production companies
• Self-employed
• Television stations and networks
• Video production companies

Work Environment

• Indoors, environmentally controlled

Physical Demands

• Handling material manually
• Standing
• Making repetitive motions
• Sitting

Requirements

• Completion of a college or technical program in broadcasting, audio-visual technology or a related field and experience as an assistant camera operator are usually required.
• Creative and technical ability, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work and experience, may be required.

Skills

• Equipment and Tool Selection
• Coordinating
• Critical Thinking
• Decision Making
• Learning and Teaching Strategies

Abilities

• Colour Perception
• Far Vision
• Near Vision
• Spatial Visualization
• Trunk Strength

Personal Attributes

• Attention to Detail
• Adaptability
• Collaboration
• Independence
• Stress Tolerance

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Source: OaSIS