Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators
Additional Information
Duties
Editors and camera operators in movies do the following:
- News and sports events can be filmed as well as documentaries.
- Organize digital content using video editing software.
- Come up with a show concept with a director.
- Discuss filming and editing techniques with the director.
- Lenses and lighting should be chosen with care.
- Make a film or edit to the director's vision.
Many camera operators have one or more assistants. The helpers may be in charge of camera storage and maintenance. Help is also given in finding the best shooting angle and keeping camera sharpness.
Editors often have a staff of assistants. The assistants help track each shoot by transmitting digital video into an editing bay. Assistants may also edit.
Operators prefer digital cameras due of their portability and inexpensive 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 may also record in the air or in hard-to-reach regions.
Editors are often trained in a certain editing program that they use almost exclusively.
Examples of camera operators include:
Cinematographers help filmmakers capture visuals. Camera operators and assistants are often on set. Cinematographers choose the angles and equipment needed to obtain the shot. Changing the lighting in an image may 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 capture action sequences, while others just walk about with the camera.
Some cinematographers specialize in animation or special effects. Animators and special effects artists can help you get a job. The cinematographer is also a creative factor in certain films. Art directors can learn more about these employees.
Studio camera operators shoot their subjects from a fixed point in a broadcast studio. At any time, one or more cameras may be active. Operators frequently follow directions that define shooting order. This allows them to practice camera movements before filming. Filming a live event requires rapid reaction time to the director's signals and corrective action. Studios are increasingly adopting robotic cameras, and one person may control many cameras simultaneously.
Weddings and other significant moments are captured by videographers. They may also work with corporations to create corporate videos on various topics. 90% of videographers are self-taught editors.
Many videographers work freelance or on contract. They may, for example, make bids or contracts and gain permission to film in regions closed to the public. Their work is also copyright protected, and they retain financial records.
Editors and videographers publish their work online for anyone to see. This increases their prospects of future employment or freelancing.
Education
Most film and video editors and camera operators must have a bachelor's degree in order to work in the field. Film, broadcasting, or a similar creative and performing arts or communications sector is often the focus of the degree. Film and video-editing courses are available at a number of colleges. Film theory and hands-on training are incorporated into the curriculum.
A working knowledge of digital cameras and editing software is increasingly required for film set editors and camera operators.
Training
Depending on the sort of specialist editing software used by the company, companies may provide new hires with training in this program. Beginners should learn as much as they can about as many different types of editing software as possible.
Registration, Certification, and Licenses.
It's possible for editors to prove their expertise in several types of editing software by obtaining vendor-sponsored certification. Candidates can study for the test in a variety of ways, including on their own, through online tutorials, or in a classroom setting.
Advancement
Editors and camera operators who have been in the industry for a while and have proven themselves creative and capable of taking charge of their own projects are well-suited for promotion to project management positions. See the profile of producers and directors for additional information.
Characteristics of Critical Importance
Skills in verbal and nonverbal communication. All members of the production team—including producers and directors—should work together to ensure that a film or video project runs as planned.
Knowledge of how to use a computer. Film and video editors need high-end editing software to do their work.
Creativity. Editors and camera operators in films and videos should be able to envision what the final product will look like to an audience before they begin recording or editing.
Focused on specifics. Every frame of a film is examined by editors to determine what should be saved and what should be discarded.
Coordination between the hands and eyes. Camera operators must be able to maneuver around the scene while keeping their camera stable.
The ability to maintain one's energy levels throughout time. When filming on location, camera operators may be required to carry heavy equipment for extended periods of time.
Ability to see things visually. It is critical for postproduction editors and camera operators to be able to see what they are capturing or editing.
Pay
In May 2020, camera operators for television, video, and film earned an average yearly salary of $57,200. There are two extremes of earnings in each given occupation: those earning more than the median and those earning less. Between the lowest 10% and the highest 10% of earners, there was a wide range of incomes.
Job Projections
A substantially greater rate of growth than the average for all jobs is predicted for film and video editors and camera operators over the decade from 2020 to 2030.