Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 24,460 camera operators, television, video, and films, and they earn a median of $68,810/year. The range runs from $36K to $131K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level camera operators, television, video, and films start around $36K. The gap between that and the median ($69K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $131K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $102K | 5,520 |
| District of Columbia | $101K | 310 |
| Oregon | $94K | 290 |
| New York | $90K | 3,510 |
| New Jersey | $86K | 440 |
| Illinois | $83K | 870 |
| Arizona | $75K | 630 |
| Virginia | $72K | 510 |
| Maryland | $68K | 270 |
| Ohio | $67K | 500 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a camera operators, television, video, and film make?▼
The median camera operators, television, video, and film salary in the United States is $68,810 per year ($33/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $131,420.
What education do you need to become a camera operators, television, video, and film?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for camera operators, television, video, and films?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for camera operators, television, video, and films.
What are the highest paying states for camera operators, television, video, and films?▼
The highest paying states for camera operators, television, video, and films are California ($101,610), District of Columbia ($100,940), Oregon ($93,610), New York ($89,960), New Jersey ($85,560). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.