Television Camera Operator

Camera operators work in studios and on location. In general, they:

• move the camera and operate optical controls (for example, focus, zoom, exposure)
• follow instructions from the director concerning the mood or dramatic effect to be achieved
• make minor electronic adjustments to cameras.

They also may:

• maintain and store camera equipment
• assist with the lighting and staging of broadcast productions
• set up and operate live location shoots
• edit video in non-linear edit suites or on location.

Electronic news gathering (ENG) and electronic field production (EFP) camera operators use portable cameras to televise and record news events, sports events and reports at remote locations. Camera operators working with ENG or EFP equipment also may set up recording, lighting and playback equipment for field productions. They are responsible for producing the visual content of news items and achieving the desired visual content for commercials or program productions. Camera operators may also use robotic cameras and control the movement of cameras using a computer rather than physically making adjustments. Using a computer allows the operator to control multiple cameras at the same time.  

Depending on the size of the broadcast company and studio, camera operators may work alone or as part of a team of camera operators. They may work entirely at a station or also work at remote locations in all weather conditions. Most operators work eight hour shifts that include afternoons, evenings, weekends and holidays.

Television camera operators may be required to lift equipment weighing up to 20 kilograms. Handheld camera shoots may involve shouldering a 10 kilogram camera for up to six hours. Coping with tight schedules and deadlines also can be a strain.

Television camera operators need the following characteristics:

• excellent motor co-ordination
• good vision and hearing
• stamina (particularly for field work)
• an interest in electronic technology
• the ability to remain alert while performing routine, repetitive tasks and respond quickly to the unexpected
• creativity and artistic ability
• good communication and interpersonal skills for working with others in a team environment.

They should enjoy operating, testing and maintaining camera equipment, and working with others.

Competition is keen in the broadcasting field so inexperienced camera operators must be willing to start at small stations. Once operators have gained experience, they can move to positions in larger stations or specialize in a particular type of work.

Freelancing has become the trend in broadcasting. Contract employment also can be found in producing in-house programs such as corporate videos (for example, videos about safety and technical training, recruiting, sales and marketing). To be successful, freelancers must be talented, able to establish a network of contacts and willing to make themselves available when needed. A significant investment in equipment may be required to compete and maintain a successful business.

Experienced camera operators can advance to technical supervisory positions and, if they have the necessary ability and experience, eventually become directors or producers.

Television camera operators are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5222: Film and Video Camera Operators. In Alberta, 77% of people employed in this classification work in the Information, Culture and Recreation (PDF) industry.

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the Information, Culture and Recreation industry)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Cultural Human Resources Council website: www.culturalhrc.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.