TV or film camera operator

You would use film or digital video cameras to shoot films, TV shows, adverts and music videos. You would follow instructions from a director or director of photography.

You would:

• Set up camera equipment

• Plan and rehearse shots

• Follow a camera script and take cues from the director or floor manager

• Choose lenses and camera angles

• Solve technical problems such as lighting

• Work with other technical departments such as lighting and sound

You may be the only camera operator. You would then use a portable single camera.

You could also be part of a TV studio camera team. On feature films and TV drama productions you may be part of a very large crew. You would then have a specific role, such as:

• Second assistant camera (clapper loader) – load and unload film, count the takes and help the camera crew

• First assistant camera (focus puller) – judge and adjust the focus on each shot

• Grip – build and use any cranes and pulleys needed to move a camera during shooting

You would usually specialise in either film or television work. However, thanks to digital cameras and HD technology, camera professionals are finding it easier to work across different areas.

• Guild of British Camera Technicians - professional organisation of camera technicians

• British Film Institute - Film Academy courses to help young people to get into filmmaking