Abstract: A surgical camera assembly and method for visually producing an operative field with enhanced focal illumination is disclosed as including a retaining assembly operably disposed in connection with a light source. Preferably, the retaining assembly provides a sterile surface for orienting the light source in relation to the operative field and includes a means for retaining a first end of camera lens. Removably disposed in operable engagement with the retaining assembly, the camera lens comprises an elongated body and a variable focus and zoom capability for producing visual images of the operative field. The elongated body of the camera lens is removably introduced within a channel formed in the body of a housing assembly. In preferred relationship, the housing assembly provides a sterile surface for manually adjusting the variable focus and zoom capability of the camera lens for purposes of enhancing the visual images of the operative field produced by the lens.