Video Cameraman (Film)
びでおかめらまん(えいが)
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A specialist who operates filming equipment on film production sites to shoot footage aligned with the director's creative intent.
Description
A Video Cameraman (Film) operates camera equipment in the cinematography department of film production, realizing the director or Director of Photography (DP)'s creative vision through visuals. They handle lens selection, exposure settings, composition decisions, camera movements (pan, tilt, dolly, crane, handheld), and focus pulls, collaborating with the lighting team, crane operators, and camera assistants to conduct shoots. In pre-production, they participate in creating shooting plans and equipment lists, and manage image formats and log shooting for post-production. On set, they respond to weather changes, schedule adjustments, and technical issues to capture high-quality footage, requiring advanced expertise and teamwork.
Future Outlook
With the expansion of video streaming services and streaming markets, demand for film footage remains stable. Acquiring new technologies such as 4K/8K and VR/AR shooting is key to competitiveness, while advancements in AI shooting assistance tools and cost-reduction pressures in production may lead to changes in the job domain.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Creative / Detail-oriented / Physically fit / Team player
Work Style
Freelance common / Location shooting / Long hours / Production company employment / Team-based
Career Path
Camera Assistant → Camera Operator → Video Cameraman (Film) → Director of Photography (DP) → Video Director / Film Director
Required Skills
Cinema Camera Operation / Cinematography Technique / Exposure Settings / Focus Pull Technique / Image Format Knowledge / Lens Selection / Shoot Management
Recommended Skills
Basic Lighting Equipment Knowledge / Color Grading Software / Digital Workflow / Drone Shooting / Video Editing Software (Basic)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | The ability to flexibly respond to weather or schedule changes is required. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Small deviations in exposure or focus can greatly affect image quality. |
| Communication Skills | Accurate communication with the director and crew is essential. |
| Creativity & Ideation | The ability to creatively propose visual expressions and compositions is required. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Requires physical strength for transporting heavy equipment over long periods or outdoor location shoots. |
| Problem Solving | The ability to respond immediately to equipment issues or environmental changes on set is necessary. |
| Stress Tolerance | Necessary to remain calm and continue work during long shoots or tight schedules. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Collaboration with large crews is indispensable. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Basic numerical understanding for exposure calculations is needed, but advanced mathematical analysis is minimal. |
Aliases
- Cinematographer
- Film Cameraman
Related Jobs
- Camera Assistant
- Director of Photography
- Lighting Technician
- Video Editor