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How to Become a Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film in Virginia

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Films in Virginia earn a median salary of $71,760/year, which is 4% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a camera operators, television, video, and film takes home approximately $3,193/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$72K
Median salary in Virginia
+4%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
510
Employed in Virginia

What a camera operators, television, video, and film can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$71,760
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,605/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home30.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$71,760/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,193/mo

Becoming a camera operators, television, video, and film in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many camera operators, television, video, and film positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Virginia licensure or certification

Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for camera operators, television, video, and films. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Virginia

Virginia employs 510 camera operators, television, video, and films. The highest concentrations are in Richmond and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Richmond$47K$22.81/hr60
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$45K$21.58/hr100

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$40K
25th percentile
$46K
Median (50th)
$72K
75th percentile
$83K
90th percentile (senior)
$91K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a camera operators, television, video, and film make in Virginia?

The median camera operators, television, video, and film salary in Virginia is $71,760 per year ($34.5/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $68,810. Salaries range from $40,430 to $91,470.

What are the requirements to become a camera operators, television, video, and film in Virginia?

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a camera operators, television, video, and film afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $71,760, a camera operators, television, video, and film in Virginia would take home approximately $4,605/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for camera operators, television, video, and films in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for camera operators, television, video, and films in Virginia are Richmond ($47,440), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($44,890). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for camera operators, television, video, and films?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $71,760 salary, this means roughly $3,610/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.