52110 - Film and Video Camera Operators
Broad Occupation Category
5 - Occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport.
TEER
2 - Occupations usually require a college diploma or apprenticeship training of two or more years.
Major Group
52 - Technical occupations in art, culture and sport.
Sub-major Group
521 - Technical occupations in art and culture.
Minor Group
5211 - Technical occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts.
Main Job Duties
Film and video camera operators capture visual content for media, broadcast, and production environments:
- Meet with directors and production teams to plan filming sequences and shot composition
- Select and set up cameras, lenses, filters, and related equipment
- Adjust focus, exposure, lighting, and camera settings for optimal image quality
- Operate film and video cameras to record live events, broadcasts, and productions
- Capture footage for television, films, news segments, commercials, and digital media
- Label, organize, and document recorded footage for editing and archiving
- Test, maintain, and store camera equipment and accessories
- Operate drones or unmanned aerial vehicles for aerial filming when required
- Collaborate with lighting technicians and sound crews during production
- Ensure technical quality and continuity of visual recordings
- Troubleshoot equipment issues during shoots
- Follow safety protocols during filming in various environments
Employment Requirements
These are the typical employment requirements and qualifications for this occupation in Canada:
- Completion of a college or technical program in broadcasting, film production, audio-visual technology, or a related field is usually required.
- Experience as an assistant camera operator or in entry-level production roles is often required.
- A professional portfolio demonstrating technical and creative skills may be required.
- Knowledge of camera systems, lighting, and video production techniques is essential.
- Familiarity with digital video formats and editing workflows is an asset.
- Experience operating drones may require additional certification depending on regulations.
- Strong attention to detail and technical precision are required.
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and in fast-paced production environments is important.
- Foreign-trained professionals may require an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
- Eligibility for immigration pathways depends on experience, language proficiency, and program requirements.
Camera Operator Salary Prospects
Community/Area
Low ($/hour)
Median ($/hour)
High ($/hour)
Community/AreaCanada
Low ($/hour)19.62
Median ($/hour)31.25
High ($/hour)40.00
Community/AreaBritish Columbia
Low ($/hour)18.00
Median ($/hour)35.00
High ($/hour)59.40
Community/AreaOntario
Low ($/hour)16.55
Median ($/hour)30.71
High ($/hour)53.71
