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Freelance Camera Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MrBeast

Set Technician

Greenville, NC

... freelance crews, the Set Technician serves as a critical technical resource responsible for ... Execute assistant camera functions including camera setup, media management, lens changes, and ...

MrBeast

Set Technician

Greenville, NC · On-site

... freelance crews, the Set Technician serves as a critical technical resource responsible for ... Execute assistant camera functions including camera setup, media management, lens changes, and ...

NEP Group

Freelance TD/Director

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

We are seeking a Freelance TD/Director to join our team and assist in overseeing the strategic ... Ability to conduct camera meetings for live sports productions and delegate specific camera roles ...

NEP GROUP

Freelance TD/Director

Miami, FL

We are seeking a Freelance TD/Director to join our team and assist in overseeing the strategic ... Ability to conduct camera meetings for live sports productions and delegate specific camera roles ...

Valnet Inc.

Freelance Tech Writer (Smart Home)

Nashville, TN · On-site +1

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

We're looking for Freelance Tech Writers to contribute feature content to our Smart Home category ... Assistant, SmartThings, etc.) * Smart lighting, plugs, switches, thermostats, cameras, locks, and ...

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Freelance Camera Assistant information

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

To thrive as a Freelance Camera Assistant, you need a solid understanding of camera equipment, lens types, shot composition, and on-set procedures, often gained through film school or hands-on experience. Familiarity with camera systems like ARRI, RED, and Sony, as well as proficiency in using focus pullers, monitors, and data management tools, is highly valued. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly and work efficiently under pressure make someone stand out in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring smooth production workflows and supporting the camera department's technical and creative needs.

What is the difference between Freelance Camera Assistant vs Camera Operator?

AspectFreelance Camera AssistantCamera Operator
CredentialsOften requires technical knowledge, basic camera operation skills, and sometimes certificationsRequires technical skills, experience, and often a license or certification depending on the project
Work EnvironmentOn-set support, assisting camera department, working closely with camera operators and crewOperating cameras during shoots, responsible for capturing footage
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance, film, TV, commercial productionsProduction companies, freelance, broadcast, film, TV

While both roles work within the camera department, a Freelance Camera Assistant primarily supports camera operators by handling equipment and setup, whereas a Camera Operator directly controls the camera during filming. The assistant focuses on technical support, while the operator manages shot composition and camera movement.

What are the typical challenges freelance camera assistants face when working on different sets?

Freelance camera assistants often encounter varying equipment, workflows, and team dynamics from project to project. Adapting quickly to different camera systems, maintaining strong communication with directors of photography, and efficiently managing gear under time constraints are common hurdles. Being proactive, organized, and adaptable is essential for success, as is building strong relationships within the industry to secure repeat work and recommendations.

What are freelance camera assistants?

Freelance camera assistants are independent professionals who support camera operators and directors of photography on film, television, or commercial shoots. Their duties include preparing and maintaining camera equipment, managing lenses and accessories, pulling focus, and ensuring that shots are set up correctly. Because they work on a freelance basis, they are hired per project rather than being employed full-time by a single company. This allows them to work on a variety of productions and develop a diverse skill set. Strong technical knowledge, adaptability, and effective communication are key attributes for success in this role.
More about Freelance Camera Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Camera Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Camera Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Freelance Camera Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Camera Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Camera Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Camera Assistant jobs are:
Freelance Camera Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Camera Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 41% Physical, and 59% Remote job distribution.

Camera Operator (Livestream & Live Production) - LA

Upright Citizens Brigade

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Contractor

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade is home for all things comedy. Whether you're interested in writing, performing, becoming a stronger public speaker, or just love seeing comedy, UCB has you covered! Our highly trained faculty represents the best writers and performers working in comedy today. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre was founded by Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh in 1999 and operates Theaters and Training Centers in New York & Los Angeles with Austin and Pittsburgh on its way.

Job Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre is seeking experienced freelance Camera Operators to join our production team in Los Angeles and New York. This role is vital to the success of our digital initiatives, capturing high-energy live comedy for real-time livestreams and high-quality archival footage.

Operators will work within a multi-cam environment to deliver dynamic visual storytelling that translates the live theater experience to a digital audience.

Role Details

  • Employment Type: Freelance / Contract

  • Location: Los Angeles, CA 

  • Schedule: Variable; requires evening and weekend availability for show coverage

  • Reporting to: Executive Director / Venue Coordinator

  • $25/hr

Key Responsibilities

  • Live Camera Operation: Operate the Panasonic AG-CX350 as a handheld / mobile camera during live comedy performances, staying nimble and responsive from the first set to the final bow.

  • Active Listening to apply contextual composition while following fast-paced improvisational and scripted comedy.

  • Collaborative Live-Switching: Work in coordination with both the Tech Booth Operator and Live-switcher to provide usable, high-quality shots for real-time cutting and streaming to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.

  • Assist in the deployment of specialized camera rigs, including camera setups for audience capture or unique show-specific needs like top-down kitchen rigs.

  • Technical Maintenance: Ensure the theater cameras and associated gear are calibrated and ready for use prior to showtime.

Qualifications

  • Proven track record of operating cameras in a live event environment (comedy, theater, or music preferred).

  • Technical fluency with professional HD cameras and live-switching workflows.

  • A strong understanding of comedic timing and framing to anticipate performer movement and punchlines.

  • Adaptability: Ability to stay focused and professional in a high-pressure, live-to-air environment with minimal oversight.

  • Excellent communication skills for working alongside Technical Operators, Technical Leads, Event Staff, and performers.

Additional Information

Preferred Experience

  • Familiarity with the Panasonic AG-CX350 - our primary freemoving camera for live performances. Experience with this model is a plus, but not required.

  • Experience troubleshooting HDMI wireless transmission issues in live settings.

  • 1+ year of on-set camera operation with solid command of core videography fundamentals (ISO, f-stop, shutter speed, etc.).

  • Familiarity with OBS and/or other livestreaming protocols for YouTube and other digital platforms.

To Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume

  • Demo reel or links to live production work

    • Note: File uploads limited to 2 MB per file. If you have larger files, please share a link to a digital storage folder in your application/CV

  • Available start date

- UCB is an equal opportunity employer.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply