A Videographer handles the full video production process, from pre-production planning and location scouting to operating cameras on shoot days and delivering edited footage. Day-to-day work involves setting up lighting and audio rigs, directing on-camera talent or capturing live action (events, sports, social content), then editing in post to produce finished videos aligned to a brief. In-house videographers often own an organisation's entire visual output, while agency or freelance videographers move across varied client projects and formats.
Key responsibilities
Plan and storyboard shoots based on creative briefs
Operate cameras, lighting, and audio equipment on location or in studio
Direct or guide on-camera subjects to capture usable footage
Edit raw footage into finished videos using post-production software
Manage and organise media assets and project files
Collaborate with marketing, social, or creative teams to align content with campaign goals
Skills & tools
Camera operation (DSLR, mirrorless, cinema cameras)
Lighting setup and control
Audio recording and boom/lav mic operation
Video editing (Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve)
Colour grading
Motion graphics (Adobe After Effects)
Storyboarding and shot planning
Social media video formats (Reels, TikTok, YouTube)
File management and media organisation
Education & background
Portfolio and demonstrated on-set experience are typically prioritised; a degree or HND in Film Production, Media, or Photography is common but not universally required.
Career path
Junior Videographer → Videographer → Senior or Lead Videographer → Video Production Manager or Director of Photography; specialisations include sports, documentary, social content, or commercial production.
Salary
Median
$75K
USD/yr
Average
$88K
USD/yr
Based on 5 disclosed USD postings · Videographer, USD-disclosed · full range shown once the sample grows