How to Become a Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film in New York
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Films in New York earn a median salary of $89,960/year, which is 31% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a camera operators, television, video, and film takes home approximately $4,198/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a camera operators, television, video, and film can afford in New York
Becoming a camera operators, television, video, and film in New York
Meet education requirements
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in New York typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many camera operators, television, video, and film positions in New York require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New York licensure or certification
New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for camera operators, television, video, and films. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New York
New York employs 3,510 camera operators, television, video, and films. The highest concentrations are in Rochester and New York-Newark-Jersey City.
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary by metro area in New York
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rochester | $98K | $47.12/hr | 60 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $90K | $43.25/hr | 3,170 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $54K | $25.95/hr | 40 |
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary range in New York
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 New York?▼
The median camera operators, television, video, and film salary in New York is $89,960 per year ($43.25/hr). This is 31% above the national median of $68,810. Salaries range from $50,030 to $129,670.
What are the requirements to become a camera operators, television, video, and film in New York?▼
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in New York typically require Bachelor's degree. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a camera operators, television, video, and film afford to live in New York?▼
At the median salary of $89,960, a camera operators, television, video, and film in New York would take home approximately $5,610/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.2% 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 New York?▼
The highest paying metro areas for camera operators, television, video, and films in New York are Rochester ($98,020), New York-Newark-Jersey City ($89,960), Albany-Schenectady-Troy ($53,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New York have state income tax for camera operators, television, video, and films?▼
Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $89,960 salary, this means roughly $4,349/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.