TV or film camera operator jobs

Additional names for this position are Studio Camera Operator, Lighting Camera Operator, and Director of Photography.

What does a camera operator do?

The operators of the cameras are the ones in charge of capturing the action. They film what is taking place, whether it is on site for a news program or documentary, in a huge studio with several cameras, or during a major outside broadcast. They are aware of which cameras to use in particular circumstances and take into consideration the composition, framing, and movement of a photograph.

On multi-camera studio programs or outdoor broadcasts, the camera operator is only one of numerous cameramen and women who work together as a team to capture the event from a variety of perspectives. Some photographers make stunning flowing pictures by using cameras that are placed on movable pedestals, which they then move about the studio, rotate, and adjust as necessary to get the desired effect. The operators of many cameras are often provided with "blocking" or "shot" notes, which indicate the locations at which the presenters and contributors are going to move. These are then used throughout the rehearsal process and modified as required. They all listen to the director's orders via headsets during rehearsal, recording, or live broadcast and then reply accordingly.

They might be the lone camera operator working in a variety of settings, such as working underwater, in a blizzard, or in a desert, when they are filming on location, such as when they are doing documentaries. They often operate a wide range of cameras, including those that are handheld, cameras that are placed on a body frame (Steadicam), or a drone. They are often the owners of their equipment and are so obligated to ensure that it is properly maintained regardless of where they are filming. Lighting camera operators are frequently called lighting camera operators because they are typically competent in lighting as well as operating cameras. When shooting with a single camera, it's possible for them to be responsible for both the lighting and the sound.

Camera operators that have a significant amount of expertise have their own editorial eye, and they often provide the writer or producer suggestions for images and ideas. On large shows that are filmed in a variety of locations by a number of different camera operators, one very experienced senior camera operator is tasked with the responsibility of establishing the shooting style for all of the other camera operators to follow and is credited as the director of photography in this instance.

What are some of a camera operator's strengths?

To be successful in photography, you need a keen eye and an awareness of how composition, light, color, focus, and frame work together. You may choose to specialize in a certain category, but you still need to be able to adapt to a variety of shooting methods.

Having an in-depth grasp of the most recent cameras, lenses, monitors, and lighting, in addition to having technical knowledge of cameras.

Communication: pay attention, do what the producer and director ask of you, and collaborate closely with the other members of the crew and production staff.

Ability to multitask, including the ability to observe, listen, think fast, problem solve on the fly, and carry out complicated technical tasks, as well as the ability to adapt to the needs of a variety of shoots

Concentration requires you to be patient, keep your attention during lengthy program shoots, and remain cool under pressure.

Who are the people that a camera operator collaborates with?

When working on projects with several cameras, camera operators report to camera supervisors and wait for directions from the director before beginning each recording session. They will occasionally communicate with the speakers in order to get the most desirable photo arrangement. The camera operators collaborate with the grips to move and set up the camera equipment, and they also communicate with the gaffers regarding the lighting. There are occasions when they are joined in their job by a camera assistant. When they are out in the field, they often collaborate with a sound recordist and listen for instructions from the producer director.

How can I get started working behind the camera?

The camera operator is a senior role that requires extensive expertise. The majority of people get their start in the industry as camera assistants and work their way up to more senior positions. The Guild of British Camera Technicians has a training program for aspiring camera technicians. The experience gained in the function of kit room assistant is beneficial preparation for roles such as camera assistant and camera operator.

In the classroom or the dorm:

You have the option of pursuing Advanced Levels (A-levels) or Higher Levels (Highers) in a variety of topics, including painting, art and design, graphic communication, or photography, in addition to mathematics and physics.

The following Level 3 occupational credentials can prepare you to enter the workforce or an apprenticeship if you wish to begin your professional life immediately:

Art & Design: BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma

Certificate of Higher Education in Creative and Digital Media Production from the BTEC National Extended Diploma

Certificate in Applied General Studies in Art and Design from the NCFE

UAL Art and Design Applied General Diploma and Extended Diploma

Film and Television Production Specialist with a BTEC National Diploma

OCR Technical Diploma in Digital Media BTEC National Diploma in Photography Related Degrees (Moving Image and Audio Production)

Diploma or Extended Diploma in Art and Design from the UAL

diploma or extended diploma from the University of the Arts London in creative media production and technology

Participate in an internship:

Because an apprenticeship is a job that also includes training, it is a fantastic chance to earn money while gaining valuable experience. As a junior camera operator, it is quite improbable that you will find an apprenticeship opportunity. You should, however, consider looking for another apprenticeship with one of the broadcasters, since this is an excellent way to get started in the sector. Visit the ScreenSkills website for information on apprenticeships to learn about the many apprenticeship programs offered in the television industry. You might also look for work as a photography assistant in a different profession, such as advertising, for example. This may help you acquire abilities that, in the future, you might be able to use to the television industry. Check out the resources under What's an apprenticeship? and find an apprenticeship to learn more about apprenticeships and how to locate one in your area. You can also contact organizations directly to inquire about apprenticeship opportunities.

Work for a firm that manufactures or sells equipment:

Get in touch with a firm that rents out equipment, like as Panavision, Provision, or ARRI Rentals. Inquire about the possibility of becoming an assistant in the kit room for them. In this manner, you will have the opportunity to gain connections and learn more about the kit.

Get a degree:

To work in the film and television industry as a camera operator, a university degree is not required. However, there are degree programs that may specialize on television production as well as photography, and you should think about enrolling in one of such programs. Take a look at the list of suggested courses that ScreenSkills provides, and either choose one that focuses on unscripted TV or search for "camera." Our ScreenSkills Select award is given to educational programs that meet the criteria of providing instruction in the applicable software, allocating time specifically to the creation of a portfolio, and maintaining strong connections with the unscripted television business.

Get job experience:

Make an effort to get work experience by sending letters to local production businesses and asking if they provide any work experience opportunities. Keep a watch out for possibilities to get work experience via the PACT Indie Diversity Training Scheme, the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5.

Participate in a Crash Course:

Participating in a specialized training program will allow you to hone your abilities in operating a camera. Check out the ScreenSkills-recommended list of training courses to see whether or not there is one that focuses on camera work.

Network:

Through attendance at events, you may make connections with others working in the unscripted television sector. In order to show that you are interested in and knowledgeable about the sector, it is important to network with experts and query them about their job. Make them an offer to give them your professional contact information, and then make an effort to keep in touch with them. Learn how to achieve this by going to the page on how to network effectively.

Network online:

Make sure you have a profile on LinkedIn. Check to see if there are any Facebook pages or other social media organizations dedicated to individuals in your region that produce unscripted television. It's even possible that there are organizations for those who run or train. Get involved with them. Start by creating a profile on ScreenSkills. There are several crewing agencies, and most of them will charge you a fee just to have your name on their roster. Get started by signing up for the free ones. Free crew databases are available in several regions, including Wales Screen, Northern Ireland Screen, and others. Find a film office that's close to you and make some connections there. If you do decide to join up for premium sites, you should make sure that they are focused on the same topics that you are interested in.