About Cameramen

Cameramen are often the unsung heroes of films, television entertainment and news programming. While those in front of the lens garner the attention and glory, cameramen do much more than simply record the action for posterity. Good cameramen (also referred to as Camera Operators) provide the expertise and know-how to allow producers, directors and reporters to present stories visually through the use of proper angles, vantage points, lighting and close-ups.

Significance

A cameraman is responsible for the visual presentation of everything a director or producer wants to portray on screen. From the framing and lighting of a scene to the set-up of equipment and the choosing of lenses and filters. There are basically three main jobs associated with the title cameraman: studio cameraman, television news cameraman and film cinematographer. While each of these jobs requires skill with a camera, other varying job responsibilities---from the amount of time spent in the studio to working with varying supervisors and locations---make each job unique and challenging.

Types

Working under the supervision of a director or director of photography, a studio cameraman works in a closed studio environment, usually manning and operating an individual camera for an entire broadcast. A news photographer acts more like a field reporter--chasing down stories with a reporter, setting up and doing the job from remote locations. A movie photographer, or cinematographer, has more creative responsibilities than a news photographer--and works hand-in-hand with directors and other supervisory personnel to create a distinct visual image.

Function

A studio cameraman has a variety of responsibilities, starting with preparing and setting up equipment prior to filming--which can include tripods, monitors, lighting, cables and headphones. During the actual filming process, cameramen not only run the camera, they maintain a running communication with both the director and stage manager to assure smooth operation and correct any glitches. Studio cameramen must make themselves familiar with all aspects of the show they are working on---from the timing of segments to the exact cues that determine camera switches and commercial breaks, to attending staff meetings and mastering all new equipment.
A television news cameraman's job is an interesting combination of both creative and practical responsibilities. Because most of the work takes place on location, news cameramen have more opportunities for creative input in the final video product. In addition to transporting and preparing equipment, news cameramen work closely with directors and talent to offer advice on how best to shoot scenes. Field cameramen are also full-time trouble-shooters constantly dealing with unpredictable and changing conditions.
A cinematographer has a myriad of responsibilities. In addition to the actual operation of the camera, a cinematographer is responsible for determining all aspects of how a shot will be captured on film. She works closely with the director to help decide what film stock and lenses should be used, how best to frame and shoot (where and when to zoom in and out or pan) certain shots and how to set up everything related to the filming of a scene. This requires working closely not only with the director, but also with everyone from the set designers and sound professionals to costume designers and actors.

Potential

The routes to becoming a cameraman are also varied and diverse. While a college degree in Communications or Radio and TV is helpful and often necessary, job experience and time spent behind the camera can count just as much---particularly where field news photographers are concerned. If you are fortunate enough to have access to a video camera of any quality, utilize it as much as possible by filming family events and things that you find interesting---like a sporting event or parade. Internships and part-time on-call positions are also common at television stations and some independent film companies, allowing for vital on the job training---with pay.

Considerations

The majority of professional cameramen are union workers. Despite this, many cameramen--particularly part-timers--are non-union. There are many benefits to becoming a union member, and most locals have set requirements to becoming part of the union. That requirement is usually around 400 days of non-union camera work, for which you will need to show call sheets, time sheets and pay stubs as proof of your employment. Assuming you meet the requirements, you will typically be allowed to join the union.

Resources

• The Society of Camera Operators
• TV cameramen.com
• The Guild of Television Cameramen