Camera Operator

Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Camera Operator; Cameraman; Master Control Operator (MCO); News Videographer; Production Technician; Studio Camera Operator; Television News Photographer; Videographer

Tasks

• 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.
• Test, clean, maintain, and repair broadcast equipment, including testing microphones, to ensure proper working condition.

Knowledge

• English Language
• Computers and Electronics
• Telecommunications
• Communications and Media

Skills

• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring

Abilities

• Visualization
• Near Vision
• Far Vision
• Oral Expression
• Problem Sensitivity
• Oral Comprehension
• Speech Clarity
• Visual Color Discrimination
• Speech Recognition
• Information Ordering
• Flexibility of Closure
• Selective Attention
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Control Precision
• Fluency of Ideas
• Originality
• Deductive Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Category Flexibility
• Time Sharing