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Television camera operator: Salary and conditions

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  • Camera operators often work on a freelance basis. Rates of pay for freelance television camera operators vary according to the type of production. The Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU)  lists the recommended going rates of pay by grade and type of production. For example, the going rate for camera operators working a ten-hour day on TV factual/documentary programmes is £285; for commercials £411; and for TV news £227.
  • It may be possible to negotiate rates of pay based on your previous experience as well as the type of production.
  • Working hours are generally long (12 - 14 hours a day) and unpredictable and can include evening, weekend and night shoots.
  • Work is either in a studio or on location (in all weather conditions), mostly working as part of a team.
  • Self-employment is common as camera operators often work on a freelance basis.
  • Job availability can be unpredictable, particularly at the start of a career when a network of industry contacts is still being established.
  • Women are currently underrepresented in camera departments. The organisation Women in Film and Television UK (WFTV)  provides support for women in the creative media industry.
  • Work tends to be concentrated in areas with major studios such as London, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff, Bristol, Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool.
  • Dedication, patience and stamina are needed. The work can be physically demanding as you have to stand for long periods of time and carry heavy equipment.
  • Working to tight deadlines may be stressful, and long waits between shots and repeating ‘takes’ till the recording is perfect may also be frustrating.
 
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
May 2011
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