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Whether they’re filming the latest hit TV drama, filming sports events, or creating online videos for companies, camera operators play an important role in the film industry. This job requires a unique combination of technical and creative skills – so what’s the best way to describe your experience on your camera operator CV?
Thankfully, myPerfectCV is here to help. We’ve got all of the information you need to create your application, from top tips and templates to our professional CV builder too. It’s quick and easy to get started today. Lights, camera, action!
Camera operator CV templates
Camera operator CV tips
Shine a light on your skills and experience by following our top recruiter tips for writing your camera operator CV.
Highlight your specialism
Camera operators can work on a variety of different projects, from corporate videos to wildlife documentaries. Make sure you highlight your specialism on your CV to show off your sector-specific skills and help your application stand out.
Use keywords from the camera operator job role description
Your recruiter could receive hundreds of applications a day. To make sure your camera operator CV passes an ATS (applicant tracking software), always include a variety of keywords and phrases from the job description.
Show off your technical skills
From setting up equipment to editing footage, camera operators can be involved in every step of the filming process. On your CV, include examples that demonstrate your ability to tackle all of these different stages. This will show you have the necessary skills to hit the ground running in a new position.
Choose a professional CV template
As a camera operator, you know the importance of different angles, lighting, and frames to get the perfect shot. To write the perfect CV, always use a professional CV template to structure your skills, experience, and education. This will make it much easier for your recruiter to read and help you keep it down to just one page.
Show some personality
Camera operators work closely with their colleagues on set, so strong interpersonal skills are a must. In your personal statement, include some positive adjectives to describe your work ethic and character, such as ‘collaborative’, ‘methodical’, and ‘meticulous’.
Camera operator skills to include in your CV
Whatever industry they work in, camera operators need a unique combination of skills. Below, you’ll find some of the must-have skills a recruiter wants to see on your CV.
Essential skills for your camera operator CV
- Camera operation
- Editing software
- Footage archiving
- Lighting
- Pre and post-production expertise
- Teamwork
Added extras
- Attention to detail
- Project management
- Directing experience
- Time management
- Scheduling
Write an eye-catching personal statement for your camera operator CV
A personal statement (also known as a personal summary or CV objective) is a short paragraph that sits at the top of your camera operator CV. In just 2-3 sentences, this section should provide an overview of your experience and show why you’re the best candidate for the role.
Make sure to mention your current position, areas of expertise, and short-term career objectives. Demonstrate the qualities you’d bring to a new role to grab your recruiter’s attention and make them want to find out more.
Top FAQs about your camera operator CV
What is a camera operator job description?
The camera operator job description will vary between roles, as different industries will have different requirements. (For example, a wildlife camera operator may need to have experience working underwater). In general, the job description will include setting up camera equipment, discussing shots with the director, selecting the right lenses for different camera angles, following a camera script, and collaborating with actors and other technical departments.
What makes a good camera operator?
To succeed at the key camera operator roles and responsibilities, you’ll need a variety of qualities. Technical ability and an excellent eye for detail are both essential, as these will enable you to make the right practical and artistic decisions for different shots. You will also need to have great interpersonal skills. From actors and the director to other camera operators, you’ll work closely with your colleagues on set – often during long days, early mornings, night shifts, and weekend work. That means a good camera operator should be collaborative and resilient.
What skills do you need to be a camera operator?
As well as the necessary character traits, you’ll need a strong mix or hard and soft skills to be a successful camera operator. These include setting up and maintaining equipment, using editing software such as Final Cut Pro, and carrying out the necessary pre and post-production planning. You may also need physical fitness to carry heavy equipment and operate your camera in a variety of conditions.
How do I become a camera operator?
There are several routes to becoming a camera operator. You could study a university degree in film or TV, complete a vocational college course, or work towards the role by securing volunteering positions and industry training. The National Film and Television School offers a range of short courses, while the Guild of British Camera Technicians’ Trainee Scheme offers an introduction to the role.
What is the average camera operator salary UK?
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an experienced camera operator in the UK is £42,074 a year. Junior professionals with 1-4 years’ experience might earn nearer £23,750 a year.
Related CVs Film television media production
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