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Camera Operator, Videographer
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
Interest in operating motion picture and video cameras and related equipment, and in attaching lenses, filters and film magazines to cameras
Interest in testing, maintaining and storing equipment, in labelling and recording contents of exposed film, and in completing report sheets
Interest in synthesizing information to select and set up camera equipment; and in speaking with directors and senior members of camera crews to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, camera movements and picture composition
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
In general, camera operators:
They also may:
Electronic news gathering (ENG) and electronic field production (EFP) camera operators use portable cameras to televise and record news and sports events from remote locations. Camera operators working with ENG or EFP equipment also may set up recording, lighting and playback equipment for field productions.
Camera operators are responsible for producing the visual content of news items and achieving the desired visual content for commercials or program productions. They also may use robotic cameras and control camera movement using a computer rather than by making physical adjustments. This allows the operator to control multiple cameras at once.
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 at remote locations in all weather conditions. Most operators work 8-hour shifts, including afternoons, evenings, weekends and holidays.
Television camera operators may need to lift equipment weighing up to 20 kilograms. Handheld camera shoots may involve shouldering a 10-kilogram camera for up to 6 hours. Coping with tight schedules and deadlines can be a strain.
Television camera operators need:
They should enjoy operating, testing and maintaining camera equipment, and working with others.
Television camera operators need training in shot composition and framing. A background in journalism is an asset for electronic news gathering (ENG) camera operators because many stations prefer to hire reporters who can shoot and edit their own stories. For more information, see the Reporter occupational profile. Because most television stations use robotic cameras, computer skills related to camera control and operating robotic systems are an asset.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Competition is keen in the broadcasting field. Inexperienced camera operators must be willing to start at small stations. Once operators have gained experience, they can move to positions at 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, establish a network of contacts and be available to work 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 [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 5222: Film and video camera operators occupational group is expected to have an above-average annual growth of 20% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 20 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Incomes for freelance television camera operators vary considerably from one contract to another, and from one year to another.
Cultural Human Resources Council website: culturalhrc.ca
Film and Video Arts Society of Alberta (FAVA) website: fava.ca
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 05, 2021. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.