Spotlight on the Association of Camera Operators (ACO)

In film and television, the camera operator’s craft shapes the visual language of every production. Behind every frame lies precision, teamwork, and an understanding of storytelling through movement.

Among the professionals who champion this artistry is the Association of Camera Operators (ACO) - a UK-based organisation dedicated to celebrating and advancing the craft of camera operating.

Ratcliffes Insurance Brokers is proud to be an Honorary Patron of the ACO, supporting the association’s mission to empower camera operators and promote excellence across the industry.

Who the ACO Are and What They Do

The ACO represents hundreds of professional camera operators working in feature films, television drama and commercials across the UK and beyond. Founded by working operators, it provides a hub for knowledge-sharing, technical innovation and professional development.

Their work includes:

• Training and mentorship – through workshops, on-set learning programmes, and the BSC/ACO ScreenSkills Mentoring Programme, which pairs established operators with emerging talent.

• Community and advocacy – ensuring camera operators have a collective voice on issues such as on-set safety, inclusion, and technological change.

• Recognition and awards – most notably the annual Operators Award, co-presented with the BSC and GBCT, celebrating excellence in feature film and television operating.

  Recent winners have worked on productions such as Saltburn, Silo, Wicked, and True Detective: Night Country - a reminder that ACO members are behind many of the most acclaimed UK and worldwide screen moments.

A Year of Progress and Inclusion

In 2025, the ACO reached an important milestone with the appointment of Zoe Goodwin-Stuart Assoc. BSC, ACO as its first female President (source). Her leadership marks a new chapter focused on inclusion, emerging technology and the future of camera operation.

Goodwin-Stuart describes her vision as “embracing change while protecting the craft,” highlighting how new tools from drones to virtual production continue to redefine what camera operating means.
Under her direction, the ACO is expanding access to training and strengthening diversity within its membership, ensuring that “anyone with the passion and talent for this craft feels that they belong.”

The association also continues its work with the Mark Milsome Foundation, helping promote film-set safety and supporting initiatives that honour the late camera operator’s legacy, reinforcing that wellbeing and professionalism go hand in hand.

Training and Collaboration at the Heart

Professional development remains at the core of the ACO’s mission. Recent initiatives include a hands-on training series led by ACO operator Ilana Garrard, known for her work on Gladiator II, Wonka, and Black Mirror. Conducted in partnership with Crew Studio, these sessions give aspiring operators practical, on-set experience in a live production environment (source).

The ACO’s mentoring scheme with the British Society of Cinematographers (BSC) and ScreenSkills continues to grow, helping the next generation of camera professionals build confidence and connections.

Regular open-house events with patron companies such as Ronford Baker also give members a chance to explore new equipment and stay at the forefront of technical innovation (source).

Ratcliffes and the ACO – A Shared Commitment

As an Honorary Patron, Ratcliffes supports the ACO and its members - a partnership built on shared values of professionalism and trust. Ratcliffes offers support to the ACO in its ongoing efforts to strengthen the UK’s creative industry. Our role is not simply about insurance - it is about understanding the realities of life on set, the pressures of production, and the importance of protecting the craft that drives it all.

With a history spanning nearly half a century, Ratcliffes has always been dedicated to supporting its customers, providing personal service, specialist advice, and protection that grows with their needs.

Our connection with the ACO builds on that tradition, helping us serve a community whose work inspires audiences every day.

Celebrating the Craft Behind Every Frame

The camera operator’s work often goes unseen, yet it is fundamental to how audiences experience stories. Associations like the ACO ensure that this artistry is recognised, celebrated and passed on to future generations.

Ratcliffes is honoured to play a small part in that journey, standing behind the professionals who bring every frame to life.

 

🎥  Learn more about the ACO and its members

📞Get in touch with our Media Insurance team to discuss cover tailored to your next production from equipment protection to public liability.