ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

1St Assistant Camera Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sila Services

Camera Tech / Sewer Sales

Stoneham, MA · On-site

$40/hr

People First * Customer Excellence * Integrity Always * Results-Driven * Community-Centered * Fun ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Ohio Health

RNFA w/call-Surgery

Marion, OH · On-site

... first assist to the primary surgeon Can utilize appropriate techniques to assist with closure of ... the camera or changes out robotic arms and instruments during endoscopic surgery Can provide ...

Sila Services

Camera Tech / Sewer Sales

Stoneham, MA · On-site

$40/hr

People First * Customer Excellence * Integrity Always * Results-Driven * Community-Centered * Fun ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Ohio Health

... first assist to the primary surgeon Can utilize appropriate techniques to assist with closure of ... the camera or changes out robotic arms and instruments during endoscopic surgery Can provide ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobs1St Assistant Camera Jobs

1St Assistant Camera information

See salary details

$8

$19

$30

How much do 1st assistant camera jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st assistant camera in the United States is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st Assistant Camera on set, and how can they be managed?

A 1st Assistant Camera (1st AC) often faces challenges such as maintaining precise focus during complex shots, adapting quickly to changes in lighting or blocking, and effectively communicating with the camera team and other departments. To manage these challenges, strong technical skills, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving are essential. Building a good rapport with the Director of Photography and Camera Operator can also help ensure smooth workflow and address any issues swiftly on set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st Assistant Camera, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Assistant Camera, you need a solid understanding of camera systems, lens mechanics, and focus pulling, often gained through hands-on experience or film courses. Familiarity with digital cinema cameras, wireless follow focus systems, and video assist technology is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precise focus, smooth workflow, and successful collaboration with the camera team, which are critical for producing high-quality visual content.

How much does a first Assistant Camera make?

A first Assistant Camera (1st AC) typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of the production. They are responsible for managing camera equipment, focusing, and maintaining technical aspects during filming, often working long hours on set.

What does a first camera assistant do?

A first camera assistant, also known as a 1st AC, is responsible for maintaining and adjusting the camera equipment, pulling focus during shots, and managing camera accessories. They ensure the camera operates smoothly and are skilled in camera setup, lens changes, and troubleshooting. The role requires knowledge of camera systems, attention to detail, and the ability to work closely with the camera operator and director.

What is the difference between 1St Assistant Camera vs 2Nd Assistant Camera?

Aspect1St Assistant Camera2Nd Assistant Camera
CredentialsExperience in camera operation, certifications often preferredLess experience required, training provided
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with the Director of Photography, manages camera equipmentAssists the 1st AC, handles clapperboard and loading film or media
ResponsibilitiesFocus pulling, equipment maintenance, setupLoading media, slate operation, assisting with equipment

The 1st Assistant Camera and 2nd Assistant Camera roles are both essential in film production. The 1st AC primarily manages camera focus, equipment, and technical setup, requiring more experience and certifications. The 2nd AC supports the 1st AC by handling media loading and slate operations. Both roles work in similar environments and are crucial for smooth camera operations on set.

How much does a camera assistant get paid?

A camera assistant's salary varies based on experience, location, and union status, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 annually. Entry-level assistants may earn lower wages, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher pay, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What does a 1st Assistant Camera do on a film set?

A 1st Assistant Camera, often called a focus puller, is responsible for maintaining sharp focus on the subject during filming. They work closely with the Director of Photography and camera operator to ensure the camera is correctly set up and that all shots are in focus. The 1st AC also manages camera equipment, changes lenses, marks actors' positions, and keeps the camera clean and functioning. Their role is vital to the technical quality of a film or television production.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the film and television industry, a 1st Assistant Camera (1st AC) can earn around $10,000 or more per month, especially with experience, union membership, and working on high-budget productions. These roles require technical skills with camera equipment, knowledge of lighting and lenses, and often involve long hours on set. Outside of this field, high-paying jobs without a degree include roles like real estate brokers, sales managers, or entrepreneurs, but these typically require experience, skills, and sometimes licensing or certifications.
More about 1St Assistant Camera jobs
What cities are hiring for 1St Assistant Camera jobs? Cities with the most 1St Assistant Camera job openings:
What states have the most 1St Assistant Camera jobs? States with the most job openings for 1St Assistant Camera jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 1St Assistant Camera jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 1St Assistant Camera jobs are:
1St Assistant Camera jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Assistant Camera job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,170 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Photography Assistant

Wandering Seaman Photography

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Wandering Seaman Photography started out much like any other studio; after spending a number of years as a hobbyist, I merged my love for the art with my passion for working with and helping people. With a keen eye and unique style, I began taking portraits of friends, family and my pug puppy, Franklin.
Job Description
The lowdown
Assisting a photographer in all aspects of their work
Doing whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly
Assisting in everything from administration, to the shoot, to scouting locations
Is this role right for me?
To do this role, you will need to:
be willing to learn
be organised and practical
understand how to operate digital and traditional cameras, and scanning equipment
anticipate the needs of the photographer
have excellent communication skills
be able to foresee and evaluate potential problems, and deal with them calmly
be skilled in image-manipulation and image-management software
possess good office skills
pay close attention to detail
What does an Assistant Photographer do?
Getting a job as an Assistant Photographer is one of the best routes into a career in professional photography.
Assistant Photographers can learn on the job from a professional, without the responsibility of running a business or producing professional quality images before they are ready.
They must do whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly. Usually, this involves preparing sets, checking that all equipment is functioning properly, setting up lighting and accessories, taking meter readings, uploading files and transporting film or prints to and from laboratories.
When working from a studio, an Assistant Photographer will help out with general administration, keeping the sets clean and tidy and printing photographs as required. They will be expected to catalogue and optimise digital files, to scan film and to assist with image manipulation and enhancement.
They will also keep records of the film stock, exposures, lighting set-ups, as well as the names and details of art directors, models, stylists, animal handlers and other contributors. When clients are present during a shoot, it is the Assistant Photographer's job to play host and shield the photographer from unnecessary interruptions.
On location, the Assistant Photographer's duties may involve making a technical assessment of the site in advance, checking for vehicle access, power and communications facilities. They will often organise transport, catering and accommodation, set up equipment, and source a local laboratory or reliable courier.
High-profile photographers sometimes employ several Assistant Photographers who are then known as First Assistant, Second Assistant, and so on. Duties will be divided between the various assistants at the discretion of the photographer. In most cases, the First Assistant provides direct support to the Photographer on set, while the Second Assistant assists with production and general administration.
Qualifications
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply