Camera operator skills (unscripted)

A camera operator sits looking through a large monitor on a cinema camera
Image: Unsplash (C) Luis Andrés Villalón Vega

Overview of the role

The camera operator in unscripted programming is responsible for camera movement, framing and composing shots and checking their quality against production requirements. They may be the only member of the ‘camera department’ taking responsibility for lighting and sometimes sound also. As well as being able to set up and operate camera equipment, they advise on the specification of kit, supervising any camera assistant and grip, and liaising with other people on the shoot.

Core responsibilities

These core responsibilities are provided as a guide and are not exhaustive. For a more detailed breakdown of the camera operator’s required knowledge and skills, please refer to the National Occupational Standards for Camera.

Skills

Check out role specific skills, transferable skills and attributes for the role of camera operator.

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