### Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators Summary
                        
            
                                                        
                                                                
                        
            
            
            
                            
                                                
                                                
                                                
                                                
            						
							
				                                                
                                            




            			film and video editors and camera operators imageFilm and video editors manipulate images that entertain or inform an audience.							
						Quick Facts:     Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators2023     Median Pay
            						$65,070     per year
										$31.28     per hourTypical Entry-Level Education
                                    Bachelor's degreeWork Experience in a Related Occupation
                                    NoneOn-the-job Training
                                    NoneNumber of Jobs, 2022
                                    87,500Job Outlook, 2022-32
                                    7% (Faster than average)Employment Change, 2022-32
                                    5,800What Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators Do
                                                
                        
                        
Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate moving images that entertain or inform an audience.
            
                        Work Environment
                        
Film and video editors and camera operators typically work in studios or in offices. Camera operators and videographers often shoot raw footage on location.
            
                                                How to Become a Film and Video Editor or Camera Operator
                                                
                        
Film and video editors and camera operators typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to film or broadcasting.
            
                        Pay
                        												                            																				    														The median annual wage for camera operators, television, video, and film was $61,800 in May 2023.									                                														The median annual wage for film and video editors was $66,600 in May 2023.									                                					
						
            
                        Job Outlook
                        						
												Overall employment							of film and video editors and camera operators is projected to grow							 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
						About 8,200 openings for film and video editors and camera operators are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
            			
            			 Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
						State & Area Data
                       Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for film and video editors and camera operators.
            
            
						
                        Similar Occupations
                        
                                                    Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of film and video editors and camera operators with similar occupations.
            
            
                        More Information, Including Links to O*NET
                        
                                               
                        Learn more about film and video editors and camera operators by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
 What Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators Do 
            

			Film and video editors and camera operatorsNearly all video editing work is done on a computer.			
Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate images that entertain or inform an audience. Camera operators capture a wide range of material for television, movies, and other media. Editors arrange footage shot by camera operators and collaborate with producers and directors to create the final content.
Duties
Film and video editors and camera operators typically do the following:
Shoot and record television programs, films, music videos, documentaries, or news and sporting events
Organize digital footage with video-editing software
Collaborate with a director to determine the overall vision of the production
Discuss filming and editing techniques with a director to improve a scene
Select the appropriate equipment, such as the type of lens or lighting
Shoot or edit a scene based on the director’s visionMany camera operators supervise one or more assistants. The assistants set up the camera equipment and may be responsible for its storage and care. Assistants also help the operator determine the best shooting angle and make sure that the camera stays in focus.
Likewise, editors often have one or more assistants. The assistants support the editor by keeping track of each shot in a database or loading digital video into an editing bay. Assistants also may do some of the editing tasks.
Most operators prefer using digital cameras because the smaller, more inexpensive instruments give them more flexibility in shooting angles. Digital cameras also have changed the job of some camera assistants: Instead of loading film or choosing lenses, they download digital images or choose a type of software program to use with the camera. In addition, drone cameras give operators an opportunity to film in the air, or in places that are hard to reach.
Nearly all editing work is done on a computer, and editors often are trained in a specific type of editing software.
The following are examples of types of camera operators:
***Cinematographers*** film motion pictures. They usually work with a team of camera operators and assistants. Cinematographers determine the angles and types of equipment that will best capture a shot. They also adjust the lighting in a shot, because that is an important part of how the image looks.
Cinematographers may use stationary cameras that shoot whatever passes in front of them, or they may use a camera mounted on a track and move around the action. Some cinematographers sit on cranes to film an action scene; others carry the camera on their shoulder while they move around the action.
Some cinematographers specialize in filming cartoons or special effects. For information about a career in animation, see special effects artists and animators. Other cinematographers function as a film’s artistic director. For information about these workers, see art directors.
***Studio camera operators*** work in a broadcast studio and videotape their subjects from a fixed position. There may be one or several cameras in use at a time. Operators normally follow directions that give the order of the shots. They often have time to practice camera movements before shooting begins. If they are shooting a live event, they must be able to make adjustments at a moment’s notice and follow the instructions of the show’s director. The use of robotic cameras is common among studio camera operators, and one operator may control several cameras at once.
***Videographers*** film or videotape private ceremonies or special events, such as weddings. They also may work with companies and make corporate documentaries on a variety of topics. Most videographers edit their own material.
Many videographers run their own business or do freelance work. They may submit bids, write contracts, and get permission to shoot on locations that may not be open to the public. They also get copyright protection for their work and keep financial records.
Many editors and camera operators, but particularly videographers, put their creative work online. If it becomes popular, they gain more recognition, which can lead to future employment or freelance opportunities.
 Work Environment
			Film and video editors and camera operatorsCamera operators work in a variety of conditions and may have to stand for long periods.			

	    
				
	
	
	
	
	
	
	    					 Camera operators, television, video, and film held about 36,500 jobs in 2022. The largest employers of camera operators, television, video, and film were as follows:
        Self-employed workers
                33%Motion picture and video industries
                27Professional, scientific, and technical services
                10Government
                2Film and video editors held about 51,000 jobs in 2022. The largest employers of film and video editors were as follows:
        Motion picture and video industries
                37%Self-employed workers
                34Professional, scientific, and technical services
                10Film and video editors and camera operators typically work in studios or offices. Camera operators and videographers often shoot raw footage on location.
Film and video editors work in editing rooms by themselves, or with producers and directors, for many hours at a time. Cinematographers and operators who shoot for movies or television may film on location and be away from home for months at a time. Operators who travel usually must carry heavy equipment to their shooting locations.
Some camera operators work in uncomfortable or even dangerous conditions, such as severe weather, military conflicts, and natural disasters. They may have to stand for long periods waiting for an event to take place. They may carry heavy equipment while on shooting assignment.
Work Schedules
Most film and video editors and camera operators work full time, although part-time work is common. Work hours often vary with the type of operator or editor. Those who work in broadcasting may put in additional hours to meet a deadline. Those who work in the motion picture industry may have busy schedules while filming, but they go through a period of looking for work once a film is complete and before they are hired for their next job.
 How to Become a Film and Video Editor or Camera Operator

			Film and video editors and camera operatorsMost editor and camera operator positions require a bachelor's degree in a field related to film or broadcasting.			
Film and video editors and camera operators typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to film or broadcasting.
Education
Film and video editors and camera operators typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. The degreeis often in film, broadcasting, or a related fine and performing arts or communications field. Many colleges offer courses in cinematography or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training.
Film and video editors and camera operators must have an understanding of digital cameras and editing software because both are now used on film sets.
Training
Employers may offer new employees training in the type of specialized editing software those employers use. Most editors eventually specialize in one type of software, but beginners should be familiar with as many types as possible.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
Editors may demonstrate competence in various types of editing software by earning certification, which is generally offered by software vendors. Certification requires passing a comprehensive exam, and candidates can prepare for the exam on their own, through online tutorials, or through classroom instruction.
Advancement
Experienced film and video editors and camera operators with creativity and leadership skills can advance to overseeing their own projects. For more information, see the profile on producers and directors.
Important Qualities
***Communication skills.*** Film and video editors and camera operators must communicate with other members of a production team, including producers and directors, to ensure that the project goes smoothly.
***Computer skills.*** Film and video editors must use sophisticated editing software.
***Creativity.*** Film and video editors and camera operators should be able to imagine what the result of their filming or editing will look like to an audience.
***Detail oriented.*** Editors look at every frame of film and decide what should be kept or cut in order to maintain the best content.
***Hand–eye coordination.*** Camera operators need to be able to move about the action while holding a camera steady.
***Physical stamina.***Camera operators may need to carry heavy equipment for long periods, particularly when they are filming on location.
***Visual skills.*** Film and video editors and camera operators must see clearly what they are filming or editing in the postproduction process.
 Pay

			



	
 
                                                     
            
    
                        Film and Video Editors and Camera OperatorsMedian annual wages, May 2023Film and video editors$66,600  Television, video, and film camera operators and editors$65,070  Camera operators, television, video, and film$61,800  Media and communication equipment workers$53,850  Total, all occupations$48,060Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
 

	
	



		
	
	
	
The median annual wage for camera operators, television, video, and film was $61,800 in May 2023. 


The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $34,420, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $120,740.The median annual wage for film and video editors was $66,600 in May 2023. 


The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,990, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $154,480.





		
	    					 In May 2023, the median annual wages for camera operators, television, video, and film in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:	
        Motion picture and video industries
                $75,800Government
                58,120Professional, scientific, and technical services
                56,010In May 2023, the median annual wages for film and video editors in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:	
        Motion picture and video industries
                $75,560Professional, scientific, and technical services
                59,980Most film and video editors and camera operators work full time, although part-time work is common. Work hours often vary with the type of operator or editor. Those who work in broadcasting may put in additional hours to meet a deadline. Those who work in the motion picture industry may have busy schedules while filming, but they go through a period of looking for work once a film is complete and before they are hired for their next job.
 Job Outlook

   
        
    
          
        
    
                       Film and Video Editors and Camera OperatorsPercent change in employment, projected 2022-32Film and video editors9%  Television, video, and film camera operators and editors7%  Media and communication equipment workers4%  Camera operators, television, video, and film3%  Total, all occupations3%Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
            
            
			 
	
	
	

			Overall employment				of film and video editors and camera operators is projected to grow				 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
			
			About 8,200 openings for film and video editors and camera operators are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
			
			 Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
			Employment
	
			
Projected employment of film and video editors and camera operators varies by occupation (see table).
The number of online-only platforms, such as streaming services, is likely to increase, along with the number of shows produced for these platforms. This growth may lead to more work for film and video editors and camera operators.
The consolidation of roles—such as editors who determine the best angles for a shoot, the use of robotic cameras, and the increasing reliance on amateur film footage—may lead to fewer jobs for camera operators. However, more film and video editors are expected to be needed because of an increase in special effects and overall available content.
			

                        Employment projections data for     film and video editors and camera operators, 2022-32
                Occupational Title
                        SOC Code
                        Employment, 2022
                        Projected Employment, 2032
                        Change, 2022-32
                        Employment by IndustryPercent
                        NumericSOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program**Television, video, and film camera operators and editors**
			27-4030
			87,500
			93,300
			7
			5,800
			Get data**Camera operators, television, video, and film**
			27-4031
			36,500
			37,500
			3
			1,000
			Get data**Film and video editors**
			27-4032
			51,000
			55,800
			9
			4,800
			Get data
 State & Area Data **Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS)** The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OES data maps for employment and wages by state and area. Camera operators, television, video, and film
					Film and video editors **Projections Central** Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices. All state projections data are available at www.projectionscentral.com. Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved. **CareerOneStop** CareerOneStop includes hundreds of occupational profiles with data available by state and metro area. There are links in the left-hand side menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wages by local area or metro area. There is also a salary info tool to search for wages by zip code.
 Similar Occupations This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of film and video editors and camera operators. Occupation
                Job Duties
                ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION
                2023     MEDIAN PAY**Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technicians**
            Broadcast, sound, and video technicians set up, operate, and maintain the electrical equipment for media programs.
            See How to Become One
            $54,160**Editors**
            Editors plan, review, and revise content for publication.
            Bachelor's degree
            $75,020**Special Effects Artists and Animators**
            Special effects artists and animators create images that appear to move and visual effects for various forms of media and entertainment.
            Bachelor's degree
            $99,060**Photographers**
            Photographers use their technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images.
            High school diploma or equivalent
            $40,760**Producers and Directors**
            Producers and directors make business and creative decisions about film, television, stage, and other productions.
            Bachelor's degree
            $82,510**News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists**
            News analysts, reporters, and journalists keep the public updated about current events and noteworthy information.
            Bachelor's degree
            $57,500
 Contacts for More Information
								
For more information about film and video editors and camera operators, visit
Motion Picture Editors Guild

                                                
                                                        
                                                                                                    O*NET
                                        Camera Operators, Television, Video, and FilmFilm and Video Editors
 Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.  Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators, 
        	 at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/film-and-video-editors-and-camera-operators.htm (visited *May 21, 2024*).
 **Last Modified Date:**
                        Wednesday, April 17, 2024


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