Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators
Additional Information
Duties
Camera operators and editors in cinema and video commonly do the following:
- Recording of news, sports, and entertainment events such as movies and TV shows.
- Organize your digital footage with video editing software.
- Develop the show's overall concept with the director.
- Ask a filmmaker how to improve a scene by recording and editing it better.
- Lenses and lighting should be chosen with care.
- Film or edit a scene as directed.
Many camera operators command a team of assistants. Also, the assistants may store and repair the camera equipment. Assistants also help the operator determine the best shooting angle and keep the camera on target.
Editors often have assistants. With digital video, assistants keep track of each shot in a database for the editor. Assistants can help with editing.
Operators prefer digital cameras due of their portability and low cost. Rather than loading film or selecting lenses, some camera assistants now download digital images or select software to use with their cameras. Drone cameras also allow operators to film from the air or in inaccessible spots.
Editing is almost often done on a computer, and editors are often experts in certain editing software.
Here are some examples of cameramen:
Cinematographers shoot films. Camera operators and assistance assist them for much of their job.
CINEMATOGRAPHERS SELECT THE BEST CAMERA POINTS AND Changing the lighting in a photograph can make a big difference.
Cinematographers can either move a camera around the action or use a stationary camera to capture it. Some cinematographers use cranes to film action sequences, while others simply walk about with the camera.
Some cinematographers specialize in filming cartoons or special effects. If you want to work in animation, special effects artists and animators are wonderful places to start. The cinematographer is also a creative force in some films. See art directors for more details.
In a broadcast studio, studio camera operators film their subjects from a fixed location. Several cameras may be running at any same moment. Operators often follow shot-by-shot directions. They often undergo pre-shooting practice. During a live event, they must be flexible and follow the director's commands. Studio camera operators frequently use robots to operate many cameras.
Weddings, for example, are captured on film or videotape by videographers. They may also work with businesses to create corporate videos on various topics. Most videographers edit their own material.
Many videographers work freelance or on contract. They may, for example, submit bids or contracts and request permission to film in non-public areas. They may protect their work as well as their copyright and finances.
Videographers, but also editors, post online. Popularity may lead to future employment or freelancing work.
Education
Film and video editors and camera operators frequently need bachelor's degrees. A degree in film, television, or a related fine and performing arts or communications field is prevalent. Many institutions offer electives in cinematography and video editing. Both film theory and practical experience are covered.
A working knowledge of digital cameras and editing software is required for film and video editors.
Training
Depending on the company's editing software, new hires may be trained on it. While most editors eventually specialize in one program type, it is critical for newbies to learn as many as possible.
Licenses and certifications
Editors can receive vendor-sponsored accreditation for numerous types of editing software. Certification requires passing a tough test, which can be taken on your own, online, or in a classroom.
Advancement
Editors and camera operators that can think imaginatively and manage their own projects can do so. You can discover more about the people behind the scenes in the producer and director sections.
Important traits
Language and communication skills. Editors and camera operators in film and video work closely with the rest of the production team, including producers and directors.
Computer know-how. Editors use high-end editing equipment to create movies and videos.
Creativity. As a filmmaker or video editor, you should be able to visualize your work.
A stickler for minutiae. Film editors examine every shot to determine what should be kept and what should be cut.
Hand-eye coherence Camera operators must be able to move around a scene while keeping a camera still.
Body stamina. On-location filming may require camera operators to carry heavy equipment for extended durations.
Visibility. They must be able to properly view what they are capturing or editing in postproduction.
Pay
In May 2020, camera operators for television, video, and film earned an average yearly salary of $57,200. It is the salary at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Less than $29,140 was earned by the bottom ten percent, while more than $123,220 was earned by the top ten percent.
Job Projections
Video editors and camera operators will see a 29 percent increase in employment between 2020 and 2030, which is substantially more than the average for all occupations.