How to become a Film and Television Lighting Operator
Film and television lighting operators position, set up and operate lighting equipment to light sets or studios during stage performances, television broadcasts or film productions. Film and television lighting operators are responsible, both creatively and technically, for lighting interior and exterior scenes and must achieve desired effects through the placement, intensity and colour of lighting.
Personal requirements for a Film and Television Lighting Operator
- Patient
- Enjoy the technical aspects of film and television production
- Able to work as part of a team
- Creative
Education & Training for a Film and Television Lighting Operator
You can work as a film and television lighting operator without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications. You may like to consider a VET qualification. Applicants may be required to attend an interview and/or submit a folio of work. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You can also become a film and television lighting operator through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Duties & Tasks of a Film and Television Lighting Operator
Film and television lighting operators:
- Study scripts and discuss lighting effects with production staff
- Coordinate activities with electrical crew when putting up metal scaffolding to support lighting equipment
- Select and position equipment such as spotlights and floodlights
- Arrange and connect cables to electrical supplies using portable junction boxes
- Operate lights during filming or broadcasting and vary intensity of light using various filters and reflective screens
- Maintain and repair lighting equipment
- Arrange for transportation of equipment to remote locations.
Tasks
- Positions equipment, such as spotlights, floodlights and cables, and operates lights during filming, broadcasting and stage performances.
Working conditions for a Film and Television Lighting Operator
Film and television lighting operators may be required to travel to remote locations. They usually work irregular hours or shifts.
Employment Opportunities for a Film and Television Lighting Operator
Film and television lighting operators are employed by television stations and film and television production companies. Competition for entry-level positions is very strong.
Specializations
Film and Television Lighting Operator
Film and television lighting operators position, set up and operate lighting equipment to light sets or studios during stage performances, television broadcasts or film productions. Film and television lighting operators are responsible, both creatively and technically, for lighting interior and exterior scenes and must achieve desired effects through the placement, intensity and colour of lighting.
Average age
34
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
17% female
Average full-time
45 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Very high skill
Unemployment
Average unemployment
Full-Time Share
55%
Employment Size
920
Employment by state
ACT: 0.6%
NSW: 36.7%
NT: 0.6%
QLD: 17.6%
SA: 5.2%
TAS: 1.0%
VIC: 30.6%
WA: 7.7%
Age brackets
15-19: 4.4%
20-24: 17.7%
25-34: 29.9%
35-44: 22.4%
45-54: 15%
55-59: 5.5%
60-64: 3.4%
65 and Over: 1.7%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 18.8%
Bachelor degree: 20%
Certificate III/IV: 23.2%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 1.7%
Year 10 and below: 6.2%
Year 11: 4.1%
Year 12: 26%
