Camera assistant, photo

What does a Camera Assistant in Photography do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A camera assistant in photography works closely with the photographer on film, TV, and commercial sets or during still photo shoots. Tasks include preparing and maintaining camera equipment, loading memory cards or film, organizing lenses and filters, and assisting with technical settings. The role also involves managing cable runs, helping with lighting setup, and ensuring smooth operations during production. The work environment is often mobile and can be challenging and varied, with work on studio sets, outdoors, or at different shooting locations – often under time pressure and requiring high flexibility.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, salaries for camera assistants in photography have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 37 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has further risen to 37 300 SEK. The total increase amounts to approximately 5% over the three-year period, indicating stable but not exceptionally rapid salary growth. Factors driving this development likely include ongoing demand for film and TV productions, technological changes, and an increased need for digital skills. At the same time, competition for assignments remains high, contributing to a relatively slow pace of salary increases.

Camera Assistant, Photography Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 37 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male), 37,100 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (male), 39,000 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly rate: 224 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn an average of 39 500 SEK; data on women’s salaries at group level is unavailable
• Regional differences: Limited data, but variations may occur depending on location and demand

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a camera assistant in photography often involves a high school media program, followed by specialized post-secondary courses or training in photography and film production. Practical experience, gained through internships or assistant roles, is highly valued. Formal certifications are usually not required, but technical understanding, teamwork skills, and an interest in visual creation are essential.

• High school: Media program with a focus on photography/film (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Folk high school or YH training in photography/film (1–2 years)
• Internships: Industry internships or traineeships are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and interest in media production
• Self-study: Online courses and personal photography projects can provide a competitive edge

Common Benefits and Compensation

Camera assistants in photography are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for irregular hours, compensation for overtime, and per diems for work in other locations. In some cases, employers may cover equipment allowances, wellness stipends, or travel and accommodation expenses for longer productions. In addition to base salary, bonuses may be offered for long or particularly demanding assignments.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for roles as a camera assistant in photography is generally high, especially on larger productions and in metropolitan regions where many production companies operate. A broad network of contacts and the ability to quickly adapt to new teams and environments are often required. Challenges may also include irregular working hours, physically demanding tasks, and the need for continuous technical updates. Since the profession attracts many young and creative individuals, ongoing education and staying updated on the latest technology are important to remain competitive.

Tips for Aspiring Camera Assistants in Photography

To succeed as a camera assistant, it’s beneficial to be both technically curious and detail-oriented. Showing initiative and being solution-oriented are highly appreciated in production teams, while the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively is crucial for smooth workflows. Flexibility is key, as shooting days are often long and subject to change at short notice. Building a network through internships and volunteer work provides valuable contacts and experience, and keeping up with new camera technologies offers an advantage. Punctuality and reliability help gain trust quickly, and taking responsibility for technical equipment demonstrates thoroughness and commitment.

Key Facts about Camera Assistant, Photography

• Education level: High school diploma or post-secondary education in media/photography
• Work environment: Often on set, sometimes with long days and varied locations
• Employment type: Project-based or freelance work is common
• Demand: 620 job openings within the profession of photographers (2024)
• Special skills: Technical skills in camera and image handling

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After a few years of experience, opportunities open to move into roles such as B-photographer, chief photographer, or technical lead for the camera team in film and TV production. Some also choose further education in directing, production, or specialized technical fields. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts, it is difficult to make an exact prediction for the future of camera assistants, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group. However, there are indications of continued demand in culture, media, and design, especially as moving images production increases. The number of job openings for photographers is 620 (2024), suggesting a relatively healthy job market for those with the right skills and flexibility. Regional differences exist, with higher demand in larger cities and production hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Camera Assistant, Photography

• What is the salary of a Camera Assistant, photography?
  - A camera assistant in photography has an average salary of 37 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and workplace.
• How does one become a camera assistant in photography?
  - The common path is a high school education with a media focus followed by internships, courses, or post-secondary studies in photography/film.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 39 500 SEK; specific data on women’s salaries at group level is unavailable.
• What work environments can be expected?
  - The work environment is often mobile and can involve indoor and outdoor work, sometimes under tight schedules.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - After a few years, one can advance to B-photographer, chief photographer, or technical lead within the production team.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service does not provide an exact forecast for the profession, but there are indications of continued demand in photography and media.
• What is required to succeed as a camera assistant?
  - Technical skills, flexibility, and the ability to collaborate in teams are highly valued.