Mission

The principal purpose of the SOC is to recognize and nurture excellence in the field of camera operation and, secondarily, in the allied camera crafts, and to encourage development of both technology and production methods which will help our members achieve that excellence.

The Society sponsors an annual Lifetime Achievement Awards banquet honoring outstanding camera personages and their accomplishments in, and contributions to, the cinematic media. Also given are Technical Achievement Awards which are presented to the Corporate Community for technological advancements, honoring innovations benefiting the art and craft of camera operating.

Because the members of the SOC make their living with their eyesight, they take pride in supporting the Vision Center at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles with annual donations which helps underwrite contact lenses for infants with serious sight problems.

Active Membership in the Society is open to Camera Operators. Associate Membership is open to Directors of Photography, Camera Assistants and Still Photographers. Corporate Affilliate Membership is extended to participating corporations. Membership is open to qualified persons of any nationality.