What are the responsibilities and job description for the Camera Operator position at Mad Realities?
Camera Operator (Contractor)
Company: Mad Realities
Location: New York, NY
Job Type: Contractor
Hiring Manager: Clare Naughton
Mad Realities is defining the future of TV, bridging the gap between culture born online and television-level production. We partner with creators to make original episodic content that you can experience on all social platforms.
- Operate camera on fast-paced, on-the-streets shoots capturing authentic, candid moments for Mad Realities' short-form social content
- Work closely with the Creative Producer and Host to execute the visual vision for each shoot
- Set up and break down camera gear efficiently to keep shoots moving on schedule
- Adapt quickly to dynamic, unpredictable shooting environments — public spaces, crowds, variable lighting
- Capture clean, stable, well-composed footage; as well as clean, distribution-ready audio
- Bring a strong eye for framing, movement, and moment — knowing when to follow the action and when to hold
- Communicate clearly and proactively with the on-set team to anticipate shots and stay ahead of the action
- Stay current with trends in short-form video aesthetics on TikTok and Instagram
Qualifications
- 2 years of experience operating camera on shoots, preferably for social-first or documentary-style content
- Strong reel demonstrating range across different shooting environments and lighting conditions
- Proficiency with industry-standard camera systems and audio-recording systems
- Ability to work quickly and independently in uncontrolled environments
- Instinct for storytelling through the lens — not just technical execution
- Excellent communication and on-set energy; our shoots are small, collaborative, and fast
- for experience shooting short-form viral content for TikTok or Instagram
- for experience on man-on-the-street or documentary-style productions
Specifications
- Contractor: Per-shoot engagement
- Rate: $250-450 per half-day shoot, $450-650 per full-day shoot
- Typical shoot length: half-day 6 hours, full-day 10 hours
- Location: New York City
- Reports to: Director of Operations & Production, and Creative Producer on Set