What does a Camera Operator do?

    The Cinematographer’s right-hand man. The Camera Operator does exactly what their title suggests – operate the camera. The director also works very closely with the Camera Operator to ensure that their vision is captured on film in the desired way. Although they rarely get any glory, the Camera Operator is one of a select few in a film production who are directly responsible for what you see on screen. Because of the requirements of this relationship, good camera operators often work for the same director and/or cinematographer on all of their films.

    Benjamin Craig

    Benjamin Craig is an award-winning filmmaker and chief executive of Cinemagine Media Limited. With a career spanning theatre, film, and new media, his credits include Waiting for Gorgo and Sparks and Embers. He is the author of the Cannes and Sundance Festival Virgin's Guides and has written for Vogue and GQ. Based in London, he is also the founder of filmmaking.net and holds a Masters in Producing Film & Television from Royal Holloway, University of London.

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    Chris Anderson

    While a camera operator is primarily responsible for physically operating the camera, it is the focus puller, or first assistant camera, who is responsible for keeping the camera properly focused during a shoot.

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