Camera Operator

A Camera Operator is a professional opertaor of a film or video camera. Depending on the scale of the production they are working on and in what field they will often work with  multi and single-camera operational conditions, producing pictures for directors by combining the use of complex technology with creative visual skills. A camera operator will often work for a production company and can be based in various locations. The cameraman is responsible for physically operating the camera and maintaining composition and camera angles throughout a given scene or shot. It is vital that the camera operator works closely with the director and had good leadership skills along with being creative. They often have to collaborate clsely with the director as it is important that they capture the narrative of whatever they are filming on camera by using different shots and angles that mimic the narrative. Important camera operator skills include choreographing and framing shots knowledge of and the ability to select appropriate camera lenses, and other equipment to portray dramatic scenes. The principles of dramatic story telling and film editing fundamentals are important skills as well.

The camera operator is required to communicate clearly and concisely on sets where time and film budget constraints are ever present.Work activities vary greatly depending on the type of programme, for example studio/outside broadcast programmes, television dramas, commercials, documentaries, current affair and news, and whether the camera operator can use several different cameras however their workload is usually simular.

A camera opertaor must:

assembling, preparing and setting up equipment prior to filming, which may include tripods, monitors, lighting, cables and leads, and headphones;

offering advice on how best to shoot a scene, explaining the visual impact created by particular shots;

planning shots - when filming an expensive drama scene, such as an explosion, there may be only one chance to get things right so shots need to be meticulously planned beforehand;

practising the camera moves required for pre-arranged shots;

studying scripts;

working quickly, especially as timing is such an important factor;

taking sole responsibility in situations where only one camera operator is involved in the filming;

keeping up to date with filming methods and equipment;

repairing and maintaining equipment;

demonstrating a good awareness of health and safety issues.

In order to become a camera operator training, experiance and qualifications are required. Often cameraoperators start at a lower levels as an assistant observing experienced crew members and gradually gaining practical experience.
Some television companies set up their own in-house training programmes, as and when they need staff in technical roles. Many also start off working freelance to begin with allowing themselves to gain a good reputation so that they are in demand and can apply to become a permenant member of a television production company or film. Once a camera operator is fully trained it is also important they take reponsibility of their career Continuing professional development is vital and all camera operators need to take responsibility for ensuring they keep up to date with changing technology and techniques in the field.

The salary of a cameraoperator can vary depending on who they work for o if they work freelance which many cameraoperators tend to do. According to the production they are working on wether it be television or film. Although the average rate of a days wages earnt by a camera operator can be between £285; for commercials £411; and for TV news £227. However it is possible to negotiate rates of pay based on your previous experience as well as the type of production.

Dedication, patience and stamina are needed. The work can be physically demanding as you have to stand for long periods of time and carry heavy equipment. Working to tight deadlines may be stressful, and long waits between shots and repeating ‘takes’ till the recording is perfect may also be frustrating.