Average salary, compensation, and wages for Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors in the United StatesMedian annual earnings for television, video, and motion picture camera operators were $32,720 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $20,610 and $51,000. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $14,710, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $65,070. Median annual earnings were $46,540 in the motion picture and video industries and $25,830 in radio and television broadcasting. Median annual earnings for film and video editors were $38,270 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $26,780 and $55,300. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,030, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $78,070. Median annual earnings were $41,440 in the motion picture and video industries, which employ the largest numbers of film and video editors. Many camera operators who work in film or video are freelancers whose earnings tend to fluctuate each year. Because most freelance camera operators purchase their own equipment, they incur considerable expense acquiring and maintaining cameras and accessories. Some camera operators belong to unions, including the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians. More information on Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors occupation Number of Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors Working conditions for Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors Significant points for Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors Training requirements for Television, video, and motion picture camera operators and editors Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |