5  The camera team

Everyone knows what a television camera operator does - they operate cameras! Behind that obvious summary of the job lies a great deal of subtle skill which is essential to the success of any programme.

The camera team consists of a number of Camera Operators, who actually work separately, getting their instructions direct from the director. In large organizations, with Camera Operators on staff, there may be a Camera Supervisor who would organize crew rotas. Sometimes (more often on location shoots) one Camera Operator would also be responsible for designing the lighting for the programme and would become a Lighting Camera Operator. Often in small studios the Camera Operators are all of equal status.

The cameras

Studio cameras ...

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