Film And Video Editors And Camera Operators Salary
Film and video editors and camera operators play a crucial role in the entertainment industry. They use their skills to create visually stunning pieces of work that capture the audience's attention. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, it's important to know how much you can expect to earn. In this article, we'll discuss the average salary of film and video editors and camera operators in the United States.
The Average Salary of Film and Video Editors
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for film and video editors in the United States was $63,780 as of May 2019. This means that half of all film and video editors earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,840, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $177,960.
Breaking down the data further, film and video editors working in the motion picture and video industries earned the highest median annual salary at $76,520. Those working in television broadcasting earned a median of $59,630 per year, while editors working in advertising, public relations, and related services earned a median of $62,650 per year.
The Average Salary of Camera Operators
The median annual salary for camera operators in the United States was $54,570 as of May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Like film and video editors, camera operators working in the motion picture and video industries earned the highest median annual salary at $67,550. Those working in television broadcasting earned a median of $52,470 per year, while camera operators working in the spectator sports industry earned a median of $44,670 per year.
It's important to note that these figures are just averages, and individual salaries can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of production being worked on. For example, a camera operator working on a major motion picture could earn significantly more than one working on a local commercial or documentary.
Factors That Affect Salary
There are several factors that can affect the salary of film and video editors and camera operators. One major factor is experience. Generally speaking, those with more years of experience in the industry can command higher salaries than those just starting out.
Location is another factor that can affect salary. Film and video editors and camera operators working in major media markets such as New York or Los Angeles tend to earn more than those working in smaller markets. The type of production being worked on can also impact salary. Those working on major motion pictures or high-budget television shows may earn more than those working on local commercials or small independent films.
Finally, it's worth noting that the hours worked by film and video editors and camera operators can vary greatly. Those working on film or television productions may work long, irregular hours, including weekends and holidays. Freelance editors and camera operators may experience periods of feast or famine, with long stretches of unemployment followed by periods of intense, non-stop work.
Conclusion
Film and video editors and camera operators play a vital role in the entertainment industry, using their skills to create visually stunning works that capture the attention of audiences around the world. While salaries can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, the average annual salary for film and video editors in the United States is $63,780, while the average annual salary for camera operators is $54,570. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, it's important to research the different factors that can impact salary, as well as the type of work you're most interested in pursuing.