TV, video and film camera operators and editors

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Television, video and motion picture camera operators produce images that tell a story, inform or entertain an audience or record an event. Film and video editors edit soundtracks, film and video for the motion picture, cable and broadcast television industries. Some camera operators do their own editing.

Making commercial quality movies and video programs requires technical expertise and creativity. Producing successful images requires choosing and presenting interesting material, selecting appropriate equipment and applying a good eye and steady hand to assure smooth natural movement of the camera.

Camera operators use television, video or motion picture cameras to shoot a wide range of subjects, including television series, studio programs, news and sporting events, music videos, motion pictures, documentaries and training sessions. Some film or videotape private ceremonies and special events. Those who record images on videotape are often called videographers.

Many camera operators are employed by independent television stations, local affiliates, large cable and television networks or smaller, independent production companies. Studio camera operators work in a broadcast studio and usually videotape their subjects from a fixed position. News camera operators, also called electronic news gathering (ENG) operators, work as part of a reporting team, following newsworthy events as they unfold. To capture live events, they must anticipate the action and act quickly. ENG operators may need to edit raw footage on the spot for relay to a television affiliate for broadcast.

Camera operators employed in the entertainment field use motion picture cameras to film movies, television programs and commercials. Those who film motion pictures are also known as cinematographers. Some specialize in filming cartoons or special effects. They may be an integral part of the action, using cameras in any of several different camera mounts. Camera operators who work in the entertainment field often meet with directors, actors, editors and camera assistants to discuss ways of filming, editing and improving scenes.

Working conditions for camera operators and editors vary considerably. Those employed in government, television and cable networks and advertising agencies usually work a five-day, 40-hour week. On the other hand, ENG operators often work long, irregular hours and must be available to work on short notice. Camera operators and editors working in motion picture production also may work long, irregular hours.

Some camera operators work in uncomfortable or even dangerous surroundings and must wait long hours in all kinds of weather for an event to take place and stand or walk for long periods while carrying heavy equipment.

Training and qualifications

Employers usually seek applicants with a "good eye," imagination and creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of camera operation. Camera operators and editors usually acquire their skills through on-the-job training or formal postsecondary training at vocational schools, colleges, universities or photographic institutes. Formal education may be required for some positions.

Camera operators need good eyesight, artistic ability and hand-eye coordination. They should be patient, accurate and detail-oriented. Camera operators should have good communication skills and, if needed, the ability to hold a camera by hand for extended periods. Camera operators who operate their own businesses or freelance also need business skills.

Individuals interested in camera operations should subscribe to videographic newsletters and magazines, join clubs and seek summer or part-time employment in cable and television networks, motion picture studios or camera and video stores.

Job outlook

The number of individuals interested in positions as videographers and movie camera operators usually is much greater than the number of openings. Those who succeed in landing a salaried job or attracting enough work to earn a living by freelancing are likely to be the most creative, highly motivated, able to adapt to rapidly changing technologies and adept at operating a business. Related work experience or job-related training also are beneficial to prospective camera operators.

Employment of camera operators and editors is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2010. Rapid expansion of the entertainment market, especially motion picture production and distribution, will spur growth of camera operators. In addition, computer and Internet services provide new outlets for interactive productions. Modest growth also is expected in radio and television broadcasting.

Earnings

Television, video and motion picture camera operators held about 27,000 jobs in 2000; and film and video editors held about 16,000. One-fourth of camera operators were self-employed.

Median annual earnings for television, video and motion picture camera operators were $27,870 in 2000. Median annual earnings were $31,560 in motion picture production and services and $23,470 in radio and television broadcasting.

Median annual earnings for film and video editors were $34,160 in 2000. Median annual earnings were $36,770 in motion picture production and services, the industry employing the largest numbers of film and video editors.

Adapted from the Labor Department's Occupational Outlook Handbook.