Camera Operator - Film - Skillset

Typical career routes
CAMERA OPERATOR – CAMERA DEPARTMENT – FILM
Most Camera Operators begin their careers as Camera Trainees or Runners, progressing to 2nd AC and, as they
gain more experience, to 1st AC. Throughout this progression, they must build upon their experience, and achieve
a high level of competence when operating a variety of cameras. Once this level of expertise and experience has
been achieved, they may become a DoP or a Camera Operator.
Essential knowledge & skills
Camera Operators need advanced technical abilities, combined with creative skills, and must know how to operate
the camera to achieve the desired result. They need a good working knowledge of all camera systems, lenses and
camera support equipment; of available accessories such as remote focus systems, video senders and receivers,
and of any other regularly used equipment. Creative input and artistic ability are vital. As the decision–making
process may take some time, patience is also essential.
Key skills include:
a good sense of visual composition, perspective and movement
physical co–ordination and strength
ability to combine creativity with technical skills
precise attention to detail
effective communication skills
ability to collaborate, and to work as part of a team
diplomacy and sensitivity when working with artists and crew
knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.
Training and qualifications
No specific qualifications are required to work in this role, although film schools and training courses offer a good
basic grounding in the skills and knowledge required and in practice many Camera Operators have studied for
higher level qualifications. The most useful courses offer practical experience and may also include work
experience placements. Relevant courses include City & Guilds courses, BTEC HNC/HNDs, Foundation degrees,
first degrees and postgraduate qualifications in media, film and TV production or cinematography. Basic stills
photography, which develops visual and composition skills, also provides a useful starting point in training for this
role.
Camera Operators usually learn most of their practical skills through hands–on experience on the job. However,
continual professional development is vital, especially as technology changes rapidly. The National Film and
Television School offers industry recognised short courses for all grades. New shooting techniques, lighting set–
ups and other practices are learnt by testing out new equipment, studying trade journals, attending exhibitions and
joining industry forums.
There are some industry led new entrant training schemes, which offer a training allowance and combine industry
placements with short course training opportunities. These include schemes offered by Cyfle and Scottish Screen,
and FT2 – Film and Television Training – camera assistant. Competition for places is fierce.
Skillet’s network of Screen Academies are institutions that it has identified as offering the highest quality of film
skills training. Details are available on the Skillset website: http://www.skillset.org/training/san/ssa/
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for Creative Media. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry
are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset’s website for links to our network of training partners,
information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers
is the UK’s only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit
www.skillset.org/careers.
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