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Freelance Camera Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DrivebyLive

Be Seen First

Live Broadcast Mobile Studio Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200 - $600/day

Sit at the camera and wait for your hit time on air. A basic understanding of cable signal flow and ... Perfect for someone that works a remote job such as freelance graphic design, video editing ...

Socure

Senior Video Storyteller

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

... camera. * Experience building or operating distributed/remote capture models, and managing vendors, partners, and freelance talent. * Producer-grade instincts for budgeting, scheduling, and on-set ...

NBCUniversal

$29.01 - $61.44/hr

This role will be freelance in a temporary capacity. * Coordinate with News assignment desk ... Operate complex ENG microwave control systems, satellite systems, CBNG systems, and beauty camera ...

NBCUniversal

$29.01 - $61.44/hr

This role will be freelance in a temporary capacity. * Coordinate with News assignment desk ... Operate complex ENG microwave control systems, satellite systems, CBNG systems, and beauty camera ...

NBCUniversal

$29.01 - $61.44/hr

This role will be freelance in a temporary capacity. * Coordinate with News assignment desk ... Operate complex ENG microwave control systems, satellite systems, CBNG systems, and beauty camera ...

Paramount

Director

San Francisco, CA

$50 - $57/hr

... based freelance AR/VR ELC Director. The ideal candidate is a great communicator, has current ... jib camera following along as you trigger augmented reality objects to help enhance the ...

Paramount

Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$50 - $57/hr

... based freelance AR/VR ELC Director. The ideal candidate is a great communicator, has current ... jib camera following along as you trigger augmented reality objects to help enhance the ...

All JobsCamera Operator JobsFreelance Camera Operator JobsFreelance Camera Operator Jobs in California

Freelance Camera Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$61

How much do freelance camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance camera operator in California is $27.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Camera Operator, you need strong expertise in camera operation, framing, exposure control, and a solid grasp of visual storytelling, often supported by formal training or on-the-job experience. Familiarity with industry-standard cameras, stabilizers, lighting equipment, and editing software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro is essential, and some projects may require certification in drone operation or safety protocols. Excellent communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with directors and crews while managing dynamic set environments. These skills ensure you can consistently deliver high-quality footage, meet client expectations, and successfully navigate the fast-paced demands of freelance assignments.

What are some common challenges Freelance Camera Operators face, and how can they overcome them?

Freelance Camera Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable work schedules, fluctuating client demands, and the need to adapt quickly to different shooting environments. Building a robust professional network, staying updated on the latest technologies, and maintaining a diverse portfolio can help secure new projects and stand out in a competitive market. Organization and self-marketing are key, as managing your own bookings, contracts, and equipment maintenance is part of the freelance lifestyle. Keeping flexible and being proactive in communication will help you deliver quality work and foster strong client relationships.

What is a Freelance Camera Operator job?

A Freelance Camera Operator is a self-employed professional who operates cameras for various productions, such as films, TV shows, news broadcasts, live events, and corporate videos. They work on a project-by-project basis, collaborating with directors, producers, and other crew members to capture high-quality visuals. Responsibilities include setting up camera equipment, adjusting shots for lighting and composition, and ensuring smooth footage. Since they work independently, they must network, manage clients, and maintain their equipment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Camera Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Camera Operator jobs in California? For Freelance Camera Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Camera Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Camera Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Camera Operator job openings:
Freelance Camera Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Camera Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,816 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Camera Operator (Livestream & Live Production) - LA

Upright Citizens Brigade

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Posted 26 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.