Unit 3 Media Sectors

Getting a Job in the Media Industry

Job Role:

Camera Operator (Studio / Outside Broadcast)

Responsibilities of a Camera Operator• Having a thorough understanding of filming and video editing techniques

• Filming sequences for TV programmes, commercials, music videos and films

• Reading and acquiring a thorough understanding of scripts when working on a film set

• Being aware of all filming locations

• Selecting appropriate equipment to shoot (lenses, filters, lighting, cranes, dollies, etc.)

• Determining other technical details such as the size of the dolly

• Laying tracks for a dolly

• Discussing photographic style and framing with the film director

• Shooting rehearsals

• Checking for any problems on the set (actors’ make-up or costumes, props, extraneous objects)

• Advising the director, cinematographer and actors

• Undertaking training courses to keep up with the fast development of new technologies and equipment

Qualifications needed to be a Camera OperatorYou do not normally need a formal qualification to become a cameraman. However, courses and higher education qualifications in film and television production have mostly overtaken in-house training and learning on the job.

Short training and continuing professional development (CPD) courses are run by a range of organisations, for example:

• The Guild of British Camera Technicians

• The BBC Academy

• The National Film and Television School

Skills needed to be a Camera Operator• Passion for film and photography

• Normal colour vision

• Excellent technical knowledge of camera equipment

• Strong IT skills

• Good visualisation skills

• Excellent observation and recording skills

• Quick decision-making

• Ability to multitask

• Excellent communication skills

• Ability to work calmly under pressure

• Good level of fitness

• Ability to handle heavy and delicate equipment

Where to go to become a cameraman• The National Film and Television School• Media college courses• University courses• Independent production companies