Camera Equipment Repairer
Repair and adjust cameras and photographic equipment, including commercial video and motion picture camera equipment.
Description
A camera and photographic equipment repairer diagnoses and fixes problems in cameras, lenses, lighting systems, and video equipment used in photography studios, film production, and broadcasting. They work in repair shops, camera retailers, production companies, and equipment rental houses to keep specialized imaging tools functioning properly so photographers and videographers can capture high-quality content. People who enjoy working with precision instruments, have a knack for troubleshooting electronics and optics, and appreciate the blend of mechanical and digital technology tend to thrive in this hands-on role.
Education Levels
Salary Ranges
In 2025, professionals in this career had median annual earnings of about $49K, with 80% earning between $35K and $78K.
National estimates from Lightcast labor market data cover workers at all experience levels, not just entry-level roles. Earnings vary by year, location, experience, and employer.
Median marks the midpoint: half of workers earn more and half earn less.
Job Growth
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, camera equipment repairer is a declining field, with employment projected to decline -33.5% between 2024 and 2034, resulting in approximately 198 job losses nationally.
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Good to Know
Skills Required
These are the top skills that professionals have in this career:
- Troubleshooting
- Repairing
- Critical Thinking
- Equipment Maintenance
- Quality Control Analysis
A Day in the Life
A typical day involves diagnosing malfunctioning cameras and photographic equipment brought in by customers, disassembling units to identify damaged components, cleaning sensors and lenses, replacing or repairing parts like shutters and circuit boards, and testing equipment to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications before returning it to clients. The work happens primarily at a repair bench in a shop or service center, with regular interaction with customers to understand equipment issues and explain repair options, and occasional coordination with parts suppliers or manufacturer technical support when troubleshooting complex problems.
Considerations
Keep in mind: This work is typically performed in repair shops or service centers, often working alone with delicate equipment, and involves eyestrain from precision tasks, pressure to diagnose complex problems quickly, and potential frustration when dealing with obsolete or hard-to-source parts. Formal licensing is not required, though many repairers complete vocational training or an associate degree in electronics or a related field, and manufacturer certifications can be valuable for working with specific camera brands.
Matched Majors
These majors are recommended based on their relevance and availability at the University of Utah.
Electrical Engineering
John and Marcia Price College of Engineering
Electrical Engineering focuses on the design, development, and application of electrical systems, electronics, and electromagnetic technologies. Students learn to create innovative solutions for power generation, communications, computing, and control systems.
Mechanical Engineering
John and Marcia Price College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering applies principles of physics, materials science, and mathematics to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. This major prepares students to innovate across industries from aerospace and automotive to energy and robotics.
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