52110 – Film and video camera operators
TEER 2Occupations usually requiring a college diploma or apprenticeship of 2 years or more, or supervisory occupations
Lead statement
Film and video camera operators operate motion picture and video cameras and related equipment to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts.
Main duties
- Meet with director and senior members of camera crew to discuss assignment and determine filming sequences, camera movements and picture composition
- Select and set up camera equipment to be used and attach lens, filters and film magazine to camera
- Adjust focus, exposure, lighting and other camera settings
- Operate film or video camera to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts
- Label and record contents of exposed film, and complete report sheets
- Test, maintain and store equipment
- May operate unmanned aerial vehicle/drone to capture aerial films of the landscape or any subject.
Employment requirements
- Completion of a college or technical program in broadcasting, audio-visual technology or a related field andexperience as an assistant camera operator are usually required.
- Creative and technical ability, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work and experience, may be required.
Example job titles
assistant camera operator · camera operator · motion picture camera operator · video camera operator · electronic field production (EFP) camera operator · electronic news gathering (ENG) camera operator · film camera operator · film cameraman/woman · news camera operator · senior motion picture camera operator · studio camera operator · television camera operator · television news camera operator · videographer · dance videographer
Wages (per hour)
| Province / territory | Low | Median | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $19.00 | $36.35 | $55.00 |
| Quebec | $20.00 | $37.39 | $50.81 |
| Ontario | $18.45 | $35.78 | $56.35 |
| British Columbia | $20.60 | $37.51 | $54.05 |
Source: Job Bank wages, 2025 release (ESDC). Low and high are the 10th and 90th percentiles.
Occupation details: ESDC OaSIS 2025, based on NOC 2021.