Remote-controlled camera technician (cinematography)

What is the role of the remote-controlled camera technician?

The cinema remote control camera technician manages and is responsible for remote control cameras. Using different types of remote-controlled equipment (aerial or submersible drones, hidden cameras, rolling remote-controlled equipment, etc.), they capture images to meet the director’s requirements. His tools enable him to shoot in areas that are difficult for traditional cameras to access, to film landscapes from the sky at lower cost, and to obtain unprecedented viewpoints.

In the film industry, the expertise of remote-controlled camera operators is increasingly sought after. On the set, they prepare their equipment and put it into service with the help – if necessary – of grips and assistant grips. On the ground, they check the video sequence in real time, to ensure that the images captured are correct and in line with the director’s intentions.

How do I get to be a film remote control technician?

In order to understand and master the multitude of tools available to them, remote-controlled camera technicians need to have undergone specific training in drone piloting. A course in cinema is also highly recommended: the technician must be able to capture images for audiovisual production, a role that requires image and production skills. Future remote-controlled camera technicians can acquire these skills at the CinéCréatis school, where the 3-year course alternates between theory and practical application.

Remote control camera technician: qualities and skills

Above all, film remote control technicians have the technical skills to ensure that the equipment for which they are responsible operates smoothly. They keep a close eye on developments in digital technology and are familiar with the new tools at their disposal. When it comes to capturing footage, they have a thorough understanding of their equipment and the possibilities it offers, and are able to put themselves in the director’s shoes to capture the images the latter has commissioned.

The cinema remote-controlled camera technician is also gifted with an artistic vision that he puts to good use in the production he is working on. They configure their equipment and control it in such a way as to convey the desired emotion. Their ability to listen enables them to grasp the needs of the production precisely, to respect the logistics, and to remain consistent with the script and the technical breakdown.

Career and development prospects

Film camera technicians generally work for a production company or on a freelance basis. As their experience grows, the projects they take part in and their skills increase, they may consider joining larger productions with bigger budgets.

Salary of a film camera technician

The job of remote control (camera) technician is increasingly in demand, and the best profiles are inundated with offers. In terms of pay, beginners can expect an annual salary of around €32,000. Senior profiles, meanwhile, can achieve salaries of up to €45,000.