Camera Operator
Operate professional cameras on set, location, OB or studios - drama, factual, sport or news.
This UK camera operator career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £25,000 - £30,000
- Mid-career salary
- £35,000 - £45,000
- Senior salary
- £55,000 - £80,000+ (freelance day rates higher)
- Work environment
- Set, location, OB
- Time to entry
- 2 - 5 years
- Degree required
- Preferred
- Category
- Marketing and Media
What a Camera Operator does
Operate professional cameras on set, location, OB or studios - drama, factual, sport or news.
How to become a Camera Operator
- Look up Camera Operator roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Camera Operator - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Camera operation
- Composition
- Lighting awareness
- Stamina