How much does a camera operator make?

They set up cameras, adjust focus and lighting, then follow the director’s cues to frame a scene or film a live event. They may work in a studio or carry gear to a location, and hours can shift around deadlines.

Did you know? Some U.S. camera operators use drones to capture aerial views or shots from places that are hard to reach.

In the U.S., a common path is college study in film, broadcasting, or a related field, with hands-on camera practice. A U.S. Department of Labor-approved camera-operator apprenticeship is another route.

School needed: Vocational school or a few years' experience

Good for people who like creating and building and doing

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., experience, in-demand camera skills, and more complex or responsible shoots can affect pay. The employer and production type, location, and how steady or long the work hours are also matter.