Film and Video Camera Operators
(NOC 5222)
in All Art, Culture, Recreation and SportFilm and video camera operators use motion picture and video cameras and related equipment to record news, live events, films, videos, and television broadcasts. They work for television networks and stations, motion picture and video production companies and in-house communications facilities of large corporations.
Job Outlook
Undetermined
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Compared to: All Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport
This is not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. With a small percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are not expected to be a major contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Film and Video Camera Operators may either be working full-time or part-time hours. Also, a fair portion of the workforce is self-employed, so having the option to "work for yourself" may appeal to some individuals’ interests/motivations.
The median employment income for 28% of Film and Video Camera Operators who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $45,158. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
N/A
MinimumN/A
MedianN/A
MaximumAnnual Pay
N/A
Minimum$27,284
MedianN/A
MaximumCompared to: All Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport
Hourly Pay
$12.55
Minimum$24.73
Median$36.29
MaximumAnnual Pay
$945
Minimum$11,712
Median$60,447
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Film and video camera operators use motion picture and video cameras and related equipment to record news, live events, films, videos, and television broadcasts. They work for television networks and stations, motion picture and video production companies and in-house communications facilities of large corporations.
Job duties
Film and video camera operators:
- Meet with director and senior members of camera crew to discuss assignment and determine filming sequences, camera movements and picture composition.
- Select and set up camera equipment to be used and attach lens, filters, and film magazine to camera.
- Adjust focus, exposure, lighting, and other camera settings.
- Use film or video camera to record news, live events, films, videos, and television broadcasts.
- Label and record contents of exposed film, and complete report sheets.
- Test, maintain, and store equipment.
Sample job titles
- assistant camera operator
- camera operator
- dance videographer
- film camera operator
- studio camera operator
- television camera operator
- television news camera operator
- video camera operator
- videographer
Skills
You need creativity, imagination, and technical skills. Attention to detail and the ability to improvise with equipment and techniques are also important. You must be able to communicate your ideas clearly and work well with others.
Job requirements
- A college or technical program in broadcasting, audio-visual technology or a related field.
Other considerations
They require a thorough technical understanding of camera equipment and film technology. Experience as an assistant camera operator is usually required. Creative and technical ability, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work and experience, may be required. Progression to supervisory or director of photography positions is possible with additional training and experience.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Cape Breton
Annapolis Valley
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Arts, entertainment and recreation
Manufacturing
Retail trade
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
25-34
35-44
15-24
55-64
Compared to: All Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport
15-24
35-44
45-54
25-34
55-64
Top levels of education
College Diploma
$27,291 median annual incomeHigh school
$11,516 median annual incomeBachelor
N/ALess than high school
N/ATrade Certification
N/ACompared to: All Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport
Bachelor
$17,829 median annual incomeHigh school
$7,552 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$22,120 median annual incomeLess than high school
$2,922 median annual incomeMaster
$36,173 median annual incomeEducation & training
Communications Technology/Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare individuals to function as workers and managers within communications industries. They include courses in business economics, basic management, principles of interpersonal and mediated communications, radio, television, and digital media production, and related aspects of technology and communications systems.
Institutions providing this program
Film Studies
College, Trades, or University ProgramThese programs focus on the study of the history, development, theory, and criticism of the film/video arts, as well as the basic principles of film making and film production.
Institutions providing this program
Organizational Communication
College or University ProgramThese programs focus on general communication processes and dynamics within organizations. They include courses in developing and maintaining interpersonal group relations within organizations, decision-making and conflict management, using symbols to create and maintain organizational images, missions, and values, power and politics within organizations, human interaction with computer technology, and how communications socialize and support employees and team members.
Institutions providing this program
Radio and Television
College or University ProgramThese programs focus on the theories, methods, and techniques used to plan, produce, and distribute audio and video programs and messages and prepares students to function as staff, producers, directors, and managers of radio and television shows and media organizations. They include courses in media aesthetics, planning, scheduling, and production, writing and editing, performing and directing, personnel and facilities management, marketing and distribution, media regulations, law, and policy, and principles of broadcast technology.
Institutions providing this program
Employment requirements & contacts
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Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.