How The Job Fits Into The Bigger Picture.

A television camera operator can

work independently, for

production companies or for

studios. They can work on a

multitude of projects such as

Music videos

Television commercials.

Corporate Videos

Television productions

Web- based video clips

Short or feature films

Documentaries

Main Duties Assembling, preparing and setting up equipment prior

to filming

Offering advice on how best to shoot a scene and explaining the visual impact created by particular shots

Planning the shots that will be needed

Practicing the camera moves required for pre-arranged shots

Studying scripts

Finding solutions to technical or other practical problems (for an outside broadcast, for example, the natural light conditions need to be taken into account when setting up shots);

Working quickly

Taking responsibility

Keeping up to date with filming methods and equipment

Unit 8

Television Camera Operator

A television camera operator uses digital cameras to produce desired shots by combining

technology with creative visual skills.

Media Jobs

The majority of Television camera operator work is freelance. The salary is based on the production, so a high budget production will earn around £620 a day and a low budget between £370-£400.

Areas For EmploymentA camera operator may specialise in working in any or all of the following areas: Studio - where the camera operator usually follows a camera script, which gives the order of shots. This is practiced at rehearsal and is cued by the director during recording. The skill lies in interpreting what the director wants and acting quickly and effectively to achieve it.Outside broadcast (OB) - working as part of a team of camera operators filming live events, like sporting and ceremonial occasions and music performances. On location - there is likely to be more opportunity for creativity through suggesting shots to the director.

As Television Camera Operators work freelance

their working hours are not concrete. But when

they are working on a project their working

hours are long, varying from 10-14 hour days.

Salary Working Hours

There are no requirements, however having a background in Journalism, Media production, Media Studies, Performing Arts or Photography can help and give.

Qualifications