Description
Operate professional video and film cameras to capture high-quality footage for television, film, live, and digital productions, executing framing, focus, exposure, and movement to realize the director’s vision.
- • Operate television, video, or film cameras to record scenes per production plans.
- • Compose and frame shots, controlling focus, exposure, depth of field, and movement.
- • Set and adjust camera settings, lenses, filters, frame rates, and codecs.
- • Operate zoom, focus, and iris controls smoothly during takes.
- • Mount and operate cameras on tripods, dollies, sliders, stabilizers, jibs, or cranes.
- • Adjust camera positions and controls to adapt to lighting and blocking changes.
- • Collaborate with directors, directors of photography, and crew on shot lists and camera moves.
- • Evaluate sets and locations for sightlines, lighting needs, and potential issues.
- • Calculate exposure, focal length, shutter angle or speed, and filter factors using meters and charts.
- • Set up cameras, rigs, monitors, wireless video, and related accessories.
- • Perform camera tests, white balance, lens checks, and back focus adjustments.
- • Review playback or dailies to identify and resolve exposure, focus, or motion issues.
- • Read call sheets and work orders to plan locations, sequences, and equipment setups.
- • Set up and execute live shots for broadcast or streaming.
- • Assist with assembling and striking studio sets and camera support gear.
- • Maintain, clean, and safely handle cameras, lenses, batteries, media, and cables.
- • Troubleshoot basic equipment problems and coordinate repairs as needed.
- • Manage media by labeling, logging, and handing off cards or mags to post-production.
- • Follow safety protocols and communicate cues and timing with talent and crew.
Related specializations
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Related Pathways
Arts, Entertainment, & Design
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
