How to Become a Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film in California
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Films in California earn a median salary of $101,610/year, which is 48% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.5%. After taxes and rent, a camera operators, television, video, and film takes home approximately $4,778/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a camera operators, television, video, and film can afford in California
Becoming a camera operators, television, video, and film in California
Meet education requirements
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many camera operators, television, video, and film positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for camera operators, television, video, and films. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 5,520 camera operators, television, video, and films. The highest concentrations are in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $102K | $49.19/hr | 3,790 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $89K | $42.67/hr | 760 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $79K | $37.98/hr | 40 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $70K | $33.75/hr | 70 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $62K | $30/hr | 90 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $51K | $24.64/hr | 180 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $45K | $21.52/hr | 130 |
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary range in California
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a camera operators, television, video, and film make in California?▼
The median camera operators, television, video, and film salary in California is $101,610 per year ($48.85/hr). This is 48% above the national median of $68,810. Salaries range from $46,530 to $133,540.
What are the requirements to become a camera operators, television, video, and film in California?▼
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a camera operators, television, video, and film afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $101,610, a camera operators, television, video, and film in California would take home approximately $6,190/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for camera operators, television, video, and films in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for camera operators, television, video, and films in California are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($102,310), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($88,760), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($79,000). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for camera operators, television, video, and films?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.5%. On a $101,610 salary, this means roughly $5,587/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.