Film Term of the Week: Camera Operator

Camera Operator

1. A camera operator (abbreviated as C.O.) is an operator that uses cinematic techniques to operate a camera. In filmmaking a cinematographer operates a movie camera and captures images to film. In a video production, depending on the context and technology involved, the camera operator may also be known variously as a cameraman, television camera operator, video camera operator, or videographer and operates a professional video camera.

The operator is responsible for physically operating the camera and maintaining composition and camera angles throughout a given scene or shot. In narrative filmmaking, the camera operator will collaborate with the director, director of photography, actors and crew to make technical and creative decisions.

Source: Wikipedia