Also called: Camera Stabilizer Operator
Wears a body-mounted camera rig that floats smoothly while they walk, run, or climb stairs with actors.
A Steadicam operator straps on 70+ pounds of vest, arm, and camera, then walks backward in front of actors through a crowded restaurant in one smooth shot. They rehearse the path, then do it again and again. It's part athletics, part art.
Approximate. Operators usually own their rigs and charge a daily kit fee on top of union rates.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Certificate, about 2 years after high school. Specialized Steadicam workshops plus years of camera operating; equipment costs $50k+.
Ways in: Certification, On-the-job training, Self-taught. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Cinematography, Film Production.
Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). Niche specialty within camera operators.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Gimbals and drones do some moving shots, but long, precise Steadicam moves with actors still need a strong, skilled operator.
Classes: PE or weight training, Photography, Film/video production CTE, Physics.
Official data: O*NET occupation 27-4031.
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