Videographers: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
Videographers film or videotape private ceremonies or special events, such as weddings. They also may work with companies and make corporate documentaries on a variety of topics. Some videographers post their work on video-sharing websites for prospective clients. Most videographers edit their own material.
Many videographers run their own business or do freelance work. They may submit bids, write contracts, and get permission to shoot on locations that may not be open to the public. They also get copyright protection for their work and keep financial records.
Many editors and camera operators, but particularly videographers, put their creative work online. If it becomes popular, they gain more recognition, which can lead to future employment or freelance opportunities.
- Education Required
- Most editor and camera operator positions require a bachelors degree in a field related to film or broadcasting, such as communications. Many colleges offer courses in cinematography or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training.
- Training Required
- Editors may complete a brief period of on-the-job training. Some employers may offer new employees training in the type of specialized editing software those employers use. Most editors eventually specialize in one type of software, but beginners should be familiar with as many types as possible.
- Job Outlook
-
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 12% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Advancement
- Experienced film and video editors and camera operators with creativity and leadership skills can advance to overseeing their own projects. For more information, see the profile on producers and directors.
- Licenses/Certifications
- Editors may demonstrate competence in various types of editing software by earning certification, which is generally offered by software vendors. Certification requires passing a comprehensive exam, and candidates can prepare for the exam on their own, through online tutorials, or through classroom instruction.
- Median pay: How much do Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators make?
- $59,040 Annual Salary
- $28.39 per hour
Careers for Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators
- Assistant camera operators
- Assistant editors
- Cinematographers
- Cue selectors
- Electronic news gathering camera operators
- Electronic news gathering editors
- Film editors
- Motion picture camera operators
- Movie editors
- Movie shot camera operators
- News camera operators
- News video editors
- News videographers
- News videotape editors
- Studio camera operators
- Tape editors
- Television camera operators
- Television news video editors
- Video camera operators
- Video tape transferers