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Camera Shading Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brite Ideas

Video Technician

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

Operate video switchers, playback systems, or camera shading as assigned. * Assist with camera builds, signal routing, and system configuration. * Perform onsite troubleshooting of signal, routing ...

Brite Ideas

Video Technician

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

Operate video switchers, playback systems, or camera shading as assigned. * Assist with camera builds, signal routing, and system configuration. * Perform onsite troubleshooting of signal, routing ...

WJBK Fox 2

Broadcast Technician

Atlanta, GA

$26.44 - $27.46/hr

Camera Operations: Manage studio camera shading, target robotic cameras, and operate specialized equipment like Jibs or Steadicams. * Technical Support: Load and operate prompter software, assist ...

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Camera Shading information

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$13

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How much do camera shading jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for camera shading in the United States is $28.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Camera Shading Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Camera Shading Operator, you need a solid understanding of camera systems, color theory, and broadcast standards, often supported by experience in live television production or a related technical field. Familiarity with camera control units (CCUs), waveform monitors, vectorscopes, and specialized shading software is crucial. Strong attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective communication with the production team are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent image quality, seamless visual transitions, and the technical reliability required for live or recorded broadcast environments.

What are camera shading operators and what do they do?

Camera shading operators are professionals responsible for adjusting and balancing the video signals from multiple cameras to ensure consistent color, exposure, and image quality during live broadcasts or recordings. They work closely with camera operators and the technical director in a control room, making real-time adjustments to compensate for changing lighting conditions or scene compositions. Their expertise ensures that each camera feed matches visually, resulting in a seamless and professional-looking broadcast.

What is the difference between Camera Shading vs Camera Operator?

AspectCamera ShadingCamera Operator
Primary RoleAdjusts and fine-tunes image quality, color, and exposure for digital camerasOperates camera equipment during filming or broadcasting
Required SkillsKnowledge of color grading, image processing, and camera settingsTechnical operation of cameras, framing, and shot composition
Work EnvironmentPost-production studios, digital imaging facilitiesOn-set during filming or live broadcasts
CertificationsOften requires knowledge of color science and digital imagingCamera operation certifications or experience

Camera Shading focuses on enhancing and adjusting the visual quality of footage in post-production, while Camera Operators handle the physical operation of cameras during shoots. Both roles are essential in the filmmaking process but serve different stages and technical focuses.

How does a Camera Shading professional typically collaborate with the technical director and camera operators during live broadcasts?

Camera Shading professionals work closely with both the technical director and camera operators to ensure consistent image quality across all cameras during live broadcasts. They monitor and adjust camera settings such as exposure, color balance, and black levels in real time, often communicating directly with camera operators to address lighting changes or technical issues. Collaboration with the technical director is essential, as they coordinate shot selection and overall visual presentation, requiring the camera shader to quickly respond to direction and maintain seamless transitions between cameras. This team-oriented environment demands strong communication skills and a keen eye for detail.

Do cameramen get paid well?

Cameramen, or camera operators, can earn varying salaries depending on experience, location, and industry. In general, they earn a median annual wage that aligns with other technical production roles, with higher pay possible for those working on major productions or with specialized skills and equipment. Compensation often includes benefits and opportunities for overtime, especially in film, television, and live event settings.

How much do camera assistants get paid?

Camera assistants typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and union status. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced assistants working on major productions can earn higher wages and overtime pay.

How much does a camera assistant earn?

A camera assistant's salary varies by location and experience, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 per year. Entry-level assistants may earn closer to the lower end, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and per diems.

What does a camera shader do?

A camera shader is a tool used in digital imaging and visual effects to modify and enhance the appearance of a camera's output. In a job context, a camera shader developer or artist creates and adjusts shaders to improve image quality, color accuracy, and visual consistency in real-time rendering or post-production workflows, often using software like Unreal Engine or Unity. This role requires knowledge of graphics programming, shading languages, and rendering pipelines.
Seasonal Part-Time Video Operator

Seasonal Part-Time Video Operator

The National Football League

Inglewood, CA

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

NFL Media Technical Operations is seeking a part-time Video Operator to lead in-studio and remote camera shading for live and pre-recorded news and sports productions across all platforms. This role is responsible for ensuring consistent, high-quality visual output across all camera feeds by managing real-time shading, color correction, and signal integrity. 

The Video Operator serves as a critical technical resource within the control room and engineering ecosystem, partnering with Technical Directors, Engineering, and production teams to deliver a seamless, broadcast-ready product in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. 

Responsibilities

  • Perform real-time shading of multiple camera sources during live and recorded productions, ensuring consistent color, exposure, and visual quality  
  • Configure and manage camera shading systems, including Sony broadcast camera chains, CCUs, and RCPs   
  • Adjust iris, gamma, black levels, and color balance across multiple camera feeds to maintain a cohesive on-air look  
  • Color correct inbound video feeds using Selenio Network Processor Manager to ensure broadcast quality and consistency  
  • Manage video signal routing for shading and production workflows using Imagine Magellan Control systems   
  • Monitor and troubleshoot video signals using waveform monitors, vectorscopes, and diagnostic tools to maintain broadcast standards  
  • Collaborate with Technical Directors, Engineering, and production staff to support the creative and technical execution of productions   
  • Support setup, calibration, and testing of cameras, shading systems, and video infrastructure for studio and remote productions   
  • Adjust shading dynamically based on changing lighting conditions, production requirements, or environmental factors   
  • Operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, adapting quickly to real-time production changes and technical challenges   
  • Support advanced production environments, including robotic camera systems (Panasonic, Telemetrics), Ultimatte systems, and OLED display integrations   

Required Qualifications

  • 5-10+ years of experience in camera shading or broadcast video operations in studio and/or remote production environments  
  • Extensive experience with Sony broadcast camera systems, including studio and ENG configurations   
  • Experience shading, color correcting, and routing video using frame synchronizers and production systems (e.g., Imagine, Cobalt)   
  • Strong understanding of broadcast video formats, including 1080p, 1080i, and 720p   
  • Working knowledge of SMPTE 2110 or IP-based video workflows

Preferred Experience 

  • Experience working in live sports or fast-paced broadcast production environments  
  • Experience with automated and robotic camera systems (Panasonic, Telemetrics)  
  • Familiarity with Ultimatte compositing systems and virtual production workflows  
  • Experience working with OLED walls and large-format display environments   
  • Knowledge of HDR and emerging broadcast technologies   

Other Key Attributes / Characteristics

  • Exceptional attention to detail with a strong eye for color accuracy and visual consistency  
  • Ability to remain calm and make precise technical adjustments under pressure in live broadcast environments   
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across control room, engineering, and production teams   
  • Highly organized and able to manage multiple camera feeds and priorities simultaneously   
  • Strong technical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot complex video and signal issues in real time   
  • Self-motivated and adaptable, with the ability to work independently or within a team environment

Physical Demands 

  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs as required for production setup and support   

Terms / Expected Hours of Work

  • Schedule driven by production needs, including live broadcasts and events  
  • Must be available to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays   
  • This is a part-time position based on operational requirements up to 29 hours per week
  • Seasonal employment up to 7 months 

Salary / Pay Range

This job posting contains a pay range, which represents the range of salaries or hourly rates that the NFL believes, in good faith, at the time of this posting that it might be willing to pay for the posted job in the location(s) specified. The NFL expects to hire for this position near the middle of the range. Only in truly rare and exceptional circumstances, where an external candidate has experience, credentials or expertise that far exceed those required or expected for the position, would the NFL consider paying a salary or rate near the higher end of the range. 

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