Film & Video Camera Operators
Learn about this occupation – including typical duties, education required, salary and job outlook information, job boards and more.
Film and video camera operators operate motion picture and video cameras and related equipment to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts. They are employed by television networks and stations, motion picture and video production companies and in-house communications facilities of large corporations. (National Occupational Classification)
Occupational profile
Find detailed information about the occupation, including typical duties and working conditions, in the links below:
- National Occupational Classification (NOC) - Canadian occupational descriptions
- O*NET Online - U.S resource for occupational descriptions and information.
- OCCinfo by alis - Alberta-based occupational information
- A Typical Day on Set – Film Training Manitoba
- Careers in Culture: Film and Broadcasting – Cultural Human Resources Council (CHRC)
- Your Role: Camera (Occupations and their qualifications) – Get on Set Manitoba
- Camera Trainee Program Reality Check – International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) 669
- Discover your Future in Film and Theatre (see Arts 2021 Information sessions) - University of Manitoba
Education
Completion of a college or technical program in broadcasting, audio-visual technology or a related field and experience as an assistant camera operator are usually required. (National Occupational Classification).
Beyond universities and colleges, several other educational options exist. Post-graduate schools and private companies offer specific training. Film and broadcasting unions, such as IATSE and AQTIS, offer training programs. Studios allow performers to create their own training "programs" by mixing and matching courses from different instructors. (Cultural Human Resources Council)
Students wishing to receive support may wish to seek consultation with local associations such as Film Training Manitoba. If you are a University of Manitoba student who would like assistance determining an education plan that suits your unique goals, speak with a Career Consultant.
U of M Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar & Catalogue outlines program admission and course requirements. Use the left menu to navigate to a specific faculty and program. To determine which degree path suits your unique occupational goals, speak with a Career Consultant. For support with course registration and academic issues, speak with an Academic Advisor.
Faculty and Department Homepages
Visit U of M's faculty and department homepage to learn about program application deadlines and processes, as well as additional in-house resources and opportunities.
Exploring Other Education Options
- Frequently Asked Questions – Film Training Manitoba
- Film Training Manitoba – Manitoba organization providing education and free consultation for those interested in entering the film industry
- Camera Trainee Program (select Winnipeg) – ICG 669
- Career Routes (see Learning Paths) – CHRC
- Search Directories
Labour market information
Labour market information informs users of supply and demand for specific occupations and sectors. It includes such things as salary and job outlook information. These resources support informed career decision making and job search efforts.
Resources
- Contracts and Rates: Western Canada Agreement – ICG 669
- Trend Analysis: Camera Operator Job Market Report (Winnipeg region) - Gov. of Canada Job Bank (Note that the job title is applicable to all occupations in the 5227 category)
- Occupational Outlook Handbook (Motion Picture and Video Industries) - Job outlook for the U.S.
- Film Training Manitoba - FAQ
- Labour Market Information for Canada’s Cultural Sector 2019 - CHRC
- Statistical Insights on the Arts – Hill Strategies Research Inc.
Professional Associations
Professional associations organize events and directories, job postings, career and labour market information. Student membership opportunities are also available. This is a great way to learn and network.
- International Cinematographers Guild (ICG)
- The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
- Directors Guild of Canada: Manitoba District Council (GDC)
- Creative Manitoba
Directories, Industry Associations, and Sector Councils
These resources provide industry news, labour market information and a list of potential employers. Remember, there are usually multiple industries worth exploring.
- On Screen Manitoba
- Broadcasters Association of Manitoba (BAM)
- Association of Community Theatres of Manitoba Inc
- Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (Members)
- Canadian Association of Broadcasters (Members)
- Canadian Media Producers Association (Member Directory)
- North American Broadcasters Association
Job Boards
Search occupations of interest in the industry-specific job boards below to learn about skill requirements, employers, job duties and available jobs. You may also wish to search more general online job boards.
Other links
External resources that will provide you with additional information about the occupation, areas of work and opportunities to build experience:
- The English, Film, and Theatre Students’ Association (EFTSA) – University of Manitoba student groups for those involved in studying film.
- UWpg Film Festival - Film Festival that showcases the work of post-secondary filmmakers from across Canada
- Winnipeg Film Group – Artist-run education, production, exhibition and distribution centre committed to promoting the art of cinema
- Get on Set Manitoba – Website aimed at engaging Manitobans to support screenings of local films, informing them of opportunities in the industry and explaining what the industry does for our province
- Freeze Frame - Not-for-profit organization offering workshops and programs throughout the year for young People
- Video Pool Media Arts Centre – Manitoba organization that provides affordable rental of professional media and film equipment
- Indigenous Filmmakers Association
- Flying your drone safely and legally – Transport Canada regulations for using a drone (helpful for those looking to film using unmanned aerial vehicles)
- Respectful workplaces in the Arts – Government of Canada