The Society of CameraOperators, formed in 1978, is an honorary organization composed of several hundred men and women internationally, of outstanding and dedicated talent, who make their living operating film and/or video cameras in the cinematic media. Our motto is: "We see it first!"

The Society, incorporated in 1981 in California as a nonprofit organization, advances the art and creative contribution of the operating cameraman in the Motion Picture and Television Industries. The Society serves the purpose of bringing into the closest confederation Industry leaders in their fields.

In our efforts to recognize the excellence in American film production, the Society has initiated the Heritage Film Series. In conjunction, and with the cooperation of Hollywood Heritage, Inc., the SOC has begun an historical plaque program. The first plaque was presented to the city of Cottage Grove, Oregon, commemorating Buster Keaton's silent masterpiece, "THE GENERAL." These events help foster an awareness of the need for film restoration.

Qualified camera operators are given Active membership status in the SOC. Camera Assistants, Directors of Photography and Still Photographers carry Associate Membership status. Corporate Affilliate Memberships are also available.

A 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 Los Angeles Childrens Hospital Eye Care Clinic with annual pin sales which provides contact lenses for infants with serious sight problems, thereby helping correct and save their eyesight.

The Society works with the Hollywood Heritage group in placing plaques commemorating the places where historic motion pictures have been made.

The SOC sponsors screenings for its members and friends several times a year, mostly at the Louis B. Meyer Theater at the Motion Picture Home where the Society helped replace the antiquated sound system with an updated Dolby sound system and accoustics design.

The membership of SOC has four breakfast meetings a year during which to transact Society business, to observe equipment demonstrations by suppliers and manufacturers, to recognize outstanding service, and to socialize.

The Board of Governors meets regularly in order to transact business and to provide direction for the Society.

An annual picnic and other social events round out the activities of the SOC

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.