Film Camera Operator

The film camera operator is a respected position which requires excellent camera skills and equipment knowledge.

The position is very similar to the television camera operator but there are some differences. Most notably, the film camera operator often works with other camera staff (e.g. camera assistant and focus puller) whereas the television camera operator is normally the only person directly operating the camera.

Responsibilities

The camera operator may be required to:

• Operate the camera.
• Operate any additional equipment such as dollies, cranes, etc.
• Select appropriate lenses.
• Frame shots under direction of the cinematographer.

Other Terminology

The film camera operator may also be known by any of the following terms: Motion picture camera operator, filmographer, video camera operator or videographer. In some cases the director of photography operates the camera.