TV or film camera operator
Camera operators record images for film, television, commercials and online content.
What you'll do
As a camera operator, you could:
- plan and rehearse shots and timings
- set up camera equipment
- choose lenses and work out camera angles for shots
- follow a camera script
- work closely with other technical departments
- maintain cameras, lenses, filters and cables
- produce camera reports logging shots and camera settings of each scene for production staff
Working environment
You could work at a TV studio, at a film studio or on a film set.
Your working environment may be at height, outdoors in all weathers and you may spend nights away from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- the ability to work well with others
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a tV or film camera operator
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- industry training
University
You can take a university course to develop your camera skills. Relevant courses include:
- media production
- media and moving image
- photography
- digital film technology
It may give you an advantage if you can find a course that offers practical and work experience opportunities like shadowing, internships or a placement.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
You can take a college course to learn some of the skills needed to get a trainee position, such as:
- creative media production
- film and television production
- photography
- art and design
- T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Camera Prep Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, which may help you to secure a trainee operator role with a production company.
This takes around 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Work
You might be able to find work as a production runner or camera assistant with a production company. As your experience and contact list grows, you may be able to do training on the job in camera work.
Volunteering
It's useful to get as much practical experience as you can, which can help when applying for jobs. This can include:
- student film or TV productions
- community film projects
- working for a camera equipment rental company
Other routes
You may be able to do short courses through the National Film and Television School to get familiar with camera technology and film and TV production.
Career path and progression
With a lot of experience, you could become a camera supervisor, floor manager, cinematographer or director of photography.
You might also specialise in a particular field, for example:
- documentaries
- underwater filming
- aerial photography
- wildlife work
- online productions
Career tips
As a trainee, you must be prepared to be flexible and to take on different tasks in a camera department. You might also have to work long hours at times. A keen interest in cinematography is essential.
Guides for this industry
Related roles
- Job roleTV or film production runner
- Job rolePhotographer
- Job roleVideo editor
- Job roleLighting technician
- Job roleDirector of photography
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