Prune camellias before new growth starts or while new growth is under an inch long. Cut the branch back to its origin or to an outward pointing growth bud or dormant bud eye and don't leave more than a 1/4-inch stub at the cut. Keep in mind the three universal pruning points:

1. Remove all dead or weak branches
2. remove all crossing branches
3. remove branches to open up the center of the plant in order to allow light to enter and air to circulate.