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Documentary Camera Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VG Systems

Videographer

Huntsville, AL

Document facility operations and construction progress for documentary purposes. * Record hardware ... Proficiency in operating professional video equipment, including HD cameras, lighting systems, and ...

VG Systems

Videographer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Document facility operations and construction progress for documentary purposes. * Record hardware ... Proficiency in operating professional video equipment, including HD cameras, lighting systems, and ...

The Seven Seas Group

Broadcast Technician

Miami, FL

Must have multi-camera studio experience, including switching and directing * Ability to edit on ... documentary style programming. * Knowledge of basic computer operations in the areas of live TV ...

The Seven Seas Group

Broadcast Technician

Miami, FL · On-site

Must have multi-camera studio experience, including switching and directing * Ability to edit on ... documentary style programming. * Knowledge of basic computer operations in the areas of live TV ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

State College, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Birmingham, AL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Orlando, FL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Milwaukee, WI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

OH · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Champaign, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Woodstock, GA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Hoboken, NJ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Filmmaking Tutor

Somerville, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... storytelling, documentary making, and commercial video production. * Curriculum Awareness ...

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All JobsDocumentary Camera Operator Jobs

Documentary Camera Operator information

See salary details

$5

$25

$56

How much do documentary camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for documentary camera operator in the United States is $25.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do film camera operators make?

Film camera operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, with experienced professionals in larger markets or high-budget productions earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, union membership, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

What are the typical working hours and environments for a Documentary Camera Operator?

As a Documentary Camera Operator, your working hours can be irregular and often depend on the filming schedule, which might include early mornings, late evenings, or weekends, especially when capturing live events or real-world scenarios. You can expect to work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in challenging or unpredictable environments, such as remote locations or busy public areas. Flexibility and physical stamina are important, as the job may require travel and carrying equipment. Team collaboration is common, working closely with directors, producers, and sound technicians to achieve the desired shots and storytelling goals.

How much do documentary photographers make?

Documentary camera operators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scope of projects. Many work freelance, which can affect income stability, and proficiency with professional camera equipment and editing software is essential for higher-paying assignments.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Documentary camera operators working on high-budget productions, such as major film or television projects, can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day, especially if they have extensive experience, specialized skills, and work as freelancers or on unionized projects. Such high daily rates are typically associated with experienced professionals in large-scale productions or those with unique technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Documentary Camera Operator position, and why are they important?

A successful Documentary Camera Operator needs proficiency in operating professional video cameras, understanding lighting and sound basics, and a solid grasp of visual storytelling—often gained through technical training or a film degree. Familiarity with equipment like DSLRs, cinema cameras, gimbals, and editing software, as well as knowledge of industry-standard formats, is important, and some roles may require certifications in camera operation or safety. Excellent communication, adaptability, and the ability to work discreetly and collaboratively in diverse environments help operators thrive. These combined skills ensure compelling footage capture under varying conditions while supporting the documentary's creative vision.

How much does a dop get paid?

A documentary camera operator typically earns between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the project. Freelance operators may have variable pay rates based on the scope and duration of assignments, and proficiency with camera equipment and lighting can influence earnings.

What is a Documentary Camera Operator job?

A Documentary Camera Operator is responsible for capturing high-quality footage that tells a compelling story in a non-fiction format. They work closely with directors and producers to film interviews, real-life events, and on-location scenes. This role requires technical expertise in operating cameras, selecting the right equipment, and adjusting settings based on lighting and movement. Adaptability is crucial, as documentary filming often occurs in unpredictable environments. Strong storytelling skills and an eye for composition help convey the intended message effectively.

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Documentary Camera Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Documentary Camera Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,104 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Cinematography/Filmmaking Instructor - Monroe, NC

Kre8ivu, Inc

Monroe, NC • Remote

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: $25 per hour

Job Description: Cinematography/Filmmaking Instructor - Monroe, NC

We are seeking anenergetic and passionate Cinematography/Filmmaking Instructorto teach middle and high school students the art of visual storytelling and film production. As an instructor, you'll work with students on projects involving short films, documentaries, music videos, and commercial productions.

Our Ideal Candidate

  • Has extensive experience in the filmmaking industry
  • Is an excellent communicator
  • Can maintain a high-energy, fast-paced, and engaging learning environment
  • Is patient and skilled in problem-solving
  • Lives either in the county or within 30 miles of the city for the job posting

Class Details

Size and Assistance

  • Classes will range from 3 to 15 students
  • An assistant will be assigned to larger classes

Physical Requirements

  • Lifting up to 35 lbs.
  • Setting up and operating camera equipment, lighting rigs, and other filmmaking gear
  • Sitting and standing for extended periods
  • Setup and take down of portable film production equipment

Job Specifics

Type and Compensation

  • Job Type:Part-Time
  • Compensation:$25.00 per hour

Experience Level

  • Professional:Minimum 4 years of professional cinematography/filmmaking experience

Language Skills

  • Bilingual abilities are not mandatory but considered a plus

Portfolio Requirements

Candidates must submit a showreel or portfolio showcasing:

  • Cinematography work
  • Short films
  • Commercials
  • Other relevant projects

Location and Relocation

  • Work locations include local public schools, colleges, universities, government buildings, and churches.
  • No relocation offered:Only local candidates should apply.
  • Candidates must live either in the county or within 30 miles of the job location.
  • All candidates must reside in the state of North Carolina.

Skills & Software Knowledge

Required:

  • Proficiency in cinematography techniques, lighting, and composition
  • Expertise in camera operation
  • Knowledge of industry-standard editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve)

Pluses:

  • Experience with visual effects
  • Color grading skills
  • Sound design capabilities

Required Equipment

  • Must own a laptop (Windows or Mac) capable of running video editing software

Ideal Candidate Profile


  1. Advanced proficiency with camera equipment and cinematography techniques

  2. Demonstrated experience in various film genres and styles

  3. Strong understanding of film theory, visual storytelling, and shot composition

  4. Familiarity with all aspects of the filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production

  5. Highly organized, detail-oriented, focused, punctual, responsible, and reliable

  6. Strong portfolio showcasing diverse cinematography and filmmaking skills

  7. Experience teaching or working with young people (preferred but not required)

  8. An authentic "can do!" personality with a proactive approach and initiative

Are you ready to inspire the next generation of cinematographers and filmmakers?