Camera operator/editor
Nature of the Work
Television, video, and motion picture camera operators produce
images
that tell a story, inform or entertain an audience, or record an event. Film and
video editors edit soundtracks, film, and video for the motion picture, cable,
and broadcast television industries. Some camera operators do their own editing.
Camera operators use television, video, or motion picture cameras to shoot a
wide range of material, including television series, studio programs, news and
sporting events, music videos, motion pictures, documentaries, and training
sessions. This material is constructed from many different shots by film and
video editors. With the increase in digital technology, much of the editing work
is now done on a computer. Many camera operators and editors are employed by
independent television stations; local affiliate stations of television
networks; large cable and television networks; or smaller, independent
production companies.
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement
Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors usually
acquire their skills through formal postsecondary training at vocational
schools, colleges, universities, or photographic institutes. A bachelor’s degree
may be required for some positions, particularly those for film and video
editors. Employers usually seek applicants with a good eye, imagination, and
creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of how the camera
operates.
Employment
Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors held about
47,000 jobs in 2006. About 27,000 were camera operators and film and video
editors held about 21,000 jobs.
Many are employed by independent television stations, local affiliate
stations of television networks or broadcast groups, large cable and television
networks, or smaller independent production companies. About 17 percent of
camera operators and film editors were self-employed. Some self-employed camera
operators contracted with television networks, documentary or independent
filmmakers, advertising agencies, or trade show or convention sponsors to work
on individual projects for a set fee, often at a daily rate.
Job Outlook
Keen competition for jobs is expected due to the large number of people who
wish to enter the broadcasting and motion picture industries, where many camera
operators and editors are employed. Those with the most experience and the most
advanced computer skills will have the best job opportunities. Employment is
expected to grow about as fast as the average.
Earnings
Median annual earnings for television, video, and motion picture camera
operators were $40,060 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $26,930
and $59,440. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,810, and the highest 10
percent earned more than $84,500. Median annual earnings were $44,010 in the
motion picture and video industries and $32,200 in radio and television
broadcasting.
Median annual earnings for film and video editors were $46,670 in May 2006.
The middle 50 percent earned between $30,610 and $74,650. The lowest 10 percent
earned less than $22,710, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $110,720.
Median annual earnings were $53,580 in the motion picture and video industries,
which employed the largest numbers of film and video editors.
Related Occupations
Related arts and media occupations include artists and related workers,
broadcast and sound engineering technicians and radio operators, graphic
designers, and photographers.
