Position
Salary

How much does a Camera Operator make?

The average salary for a Camera Operator is $55,170 per year in the US.

A Camera Operator can expect to earn a decent income. On average, Camera Operators make about $55,170 per year. Salaries can vary quite a bit based on experience, location, and the industry one works in. Camera Operators in the top 10% of earners make more than $106,000 annually, while those just starting out might make closer to $30,000.

Different roles might pay differently. For instance, those working in the motion picture and video industry tend to earn more. Additionally, those in big cities like New York or Los Angeles might see higher salaries due to the cost of living. Being in high-demand areas can also lead to better pay.

  • Top earners: Over $106,000
  • Entry-level: Around $30,000
  • Average: About $55,170
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What are the highest paying cities for a Camera Operator?

If you're a Camera Operator looking for high-paying opportunities, Orlando, Charlotte, and Las Vegas offer some of the best salaries. In Orlando, FL, Camera Operators earn an average of $59,855 a year. Charlotte, NC, offers a competitive average of $44,343 annually. Las Vegas, NV, provides an average salary of $37,758 for Camera Operators. These cities can be great places to find rewarding career options in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Camera Operator jobs, highlighting Orlando, FL with the highest at $59,855 and Las Vegas, NV with the lowest at $37,758.
  1. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $59,855
    In Orlando, camera operators enjoy a dynamic environment with a strong presence of the entertainment industry. With theme parks like Disney and Universal Studios, there are plenty of opportunities to capture captivating visuals. These operators work with top-tier production companies, enhancing their skills and career prospects.
    Find Camera Operator jobs in Orlando, FL


  2. Charlotte, NC
    Average Salary: $44,343
    Charlotte offers a diverse landscape for camera operators, from film productions to corporate events. The city's growing media industry provides a range of projects, from commercials to independent films. Working here means you can develop a versatile skill set and build a robust professional network.
    Find Camera Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC


  3. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $37,758
    Las Vegas is a vibrant hub for camera operators, with a constant demand for high-quality video content. The entertainment scene is alive with live performances and events, offering a unique backdrop for creative work. Here, operators often collaborate with entertainment giants and experience a fast-paced, exciting work environment.
    Find Camera Operator jobs in Las Vegas, NV

What are the best companies a Camera Operator can work for?

VHT Studios offers the highest salary for camera operator jobs, with an average of $150,000 annually. DanceBUG provides a competitive salary of $73,349 per year for this role. InSync Staffing also offers a good salary at $42,250 each year. These companies provide excellent opportunities for skilled camera operators.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Camera Operator jobs, highlighting VHT Studios with the highest at $150,000 and inSync Staffing with the lowest at $42,250.
  1. VHT Studios
    Average Salary: $150,000
    VHT Studios, located in Chicago and Los Angeles, offers exciting Camera Operator roles. They work on diverse projects, from commercials to film shoots. Their high pay reflects the level of skill and experience needed for their high-quality productions.


  2. DanceBUG
    Average Salary: $73,349
    DanceBUG, with locations in Seattle and New York, provides Camera Operator positions that focus on dance and performance footage. They offer a great work environment and competitive pay, making them a popular choice for those in the entertainment industry.


  3. inSync Staffing
    Average Salary: $42,250
    inSync Staffing, based in Denver and Boston, offers Camera Operator jobs with a variety of clients. Their roles provide valuable experience and growth opportunities. While the salary is lower, it's a great entry point into the field.

How to earn more as a Camera Operator?

A Camera Operator can earn more by improving several key skills and gaining experience in the industry. Focusing on these factors helps increase earning potential. One important factor is gaining experience in different types of productions. Working on films, TV shows, commercials, and events exposes the operator to various techniques and equipment. This experience makes the operator more valuable to potential employers.

Another way to earn more is by learning to operate advanced camera equipment. High-end cameras and drones require specialized skills. Mastery of these tools can lead to higher-paying jobs. Continuing education and training also help. Workshops and courses can teach the latest technology and techniques. Staying up-to-date with industry trends keeps the operator competitive. Networking with other professionals also opens doors to better job opportunities. Building a strong professional network can lead to recommendations and referrals.

Here are some factors that can help a Camera Operator earn more:

  1. Gain experience in various productions.
  2. Learn to operate advanced camera equipment.
  3. Take continuing education and training.
  4. Build a strong professional network.
  5. Stay updated with industry trends.

Currently 39 Camera Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Camera Operator in the US?

Learn what a Camera Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Camera Operator today.
Position
Overview
Camera Operator
39 Job Openings