TV or film camera operator

In your day-to-day duties you might:

• set up camera equipment
• choose the most suitable lenses and camera angles
• plan and rehearse shots
• follow a camera script
• work closely with other technical departments
• repair and maintain camera equipment

• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of media production and communication
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards the role
• volunteering
• industry training

With experience, you could become a camera supervisor, cinematographer or director of photography.

You could specialise in a particular field, like underwater filming, aerial photography or wildlife work.