Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions.
Median pay: $74,990/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +1.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 2,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Compose and frame each shot, applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by directors.
• Operate television or motion picture cameras to record scenes for television broadcasts, advertising, or motion pictures.
• Adjust positions and controls of cameras, printers, and related equipment to change focus, exposure, and lighting.
• Confer with directors, sound and lighting technicians, electricians, and other crew members to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, desired effects, camera movements, and lighting requirements.
• Operate zoom lenses, changing images according to specifications and rehearsal instructions.
• Observe sets or locations for potential problems and to determine filming and lighting requirements.
• Set up and perform live shots for broadcast.
• Use cameras in any of several different camera mounts, such as stationary, track-mounted, or crane-mounted.
What's the median pay for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film?
The median pay for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film is $74,990 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film?
Employment for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film is projected to change +1.2% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film?
About 2,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.