Profession camera operator

Camera operators setup and operate digital film cameras to shoot domestic motion pictures or television programs. They work together with the video and motion picture director, the director of photography, or the private client. Camera operators give advice on how to shoot scenes to actors, the video and motion picture director and other camera operators.

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Personality Type

• Realistic / Investigative
• Realistic / Conventional
• Realistic / Artistic

Knowledge

• Cinematography

  The science of recording light and electromagnetic radiation in order to create a motion picture. The recording can happen electronically with an image sensor or chemically on light sensitive materials such as film stock.

• Audiovisual equipment

  The characteristics and usage of different tools that stimulate the sight and audio senses.

• Lighting techniques

  The characteristics of techniques used to create atmospheres and effects on camera or on stage; the equipment required and appropriate setup to use.

• Photography

  Art and practice of creating aesthetically appealing images by recording light or electromagnetic radiation.

Skills

• Ensure visual quality of the set

  Inspect and amend the scenery and set-dressing to make sure the visual quality is optimal with in constraints of time, budget and manpower.

• Follow work schedule

  Manage the sequence of activities in order to deliver completed work on agreed deadlines by following a work schedule.

• Work with the director of photography

  Work with the director of photography on the artistic and creative vision that needs to be followed during production of a movie or theatre production.

• Create moving images

  Create and develop two-dimensional and three-dimensional images in motion and animations.

• Analyse a script

  Break down a script by analysing the dramaturgy, form, themes and structure of a script. Conduct relevant research if necessary.

• Study media sources

  Study various media sources such as broadcasts, print media, and online media in order to gather inspiration for the development of creative concepts.

• Follow directions of the artistic director

  Follow the instructions of the director while understanding his creative vision.

• Keep up with trends

  Monitor and follow new trends and developments in specific sectors.

• Adapt artistic plan to location

  Adjust plans to other locations with regards to the artistic concept.

• Set up cameras

  Put cameras in place and prepare them for use.

• Select camera apertures

  Adjust lens apertures, shutter speeds and camera focus.

• Adapt to type of media

  Adapt to different types of media such as television, movies, commercials, and others. Adapt work to type of media, scale of production, budget, genres within type of media, and others.

• Analyse the scenography

  Analyse the selection and distribution of material elements on a stage.

• Work with an artistic team

  Work closely with directors, fellow actors and playwrights to find the ideal interpretation to a role.

• Determine visual concepts

  Determine how best to represent a concept visually.

• Work ergonomically

  Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.

• Operate a camera

  Capture moving images with a camera. Operate the camera skilfully and safely to obtain high quality material.

• Use technical documentation

  Understand and use technical documentation in the overall technical process.

• Set up audiovisual peripheral equipment

  Set up audiovisual peripheral equipment such as tripods, cables, microphones, monitors, and others.

Optional knowledge and skills

Source: Sisyphus ODB