The Japanese say, that a pruned well Camellia, it must allow the flight of a dove between the branches, without the wings touch the leaves.

I have transplanted old Camelias. It is not difficult. But it can be expensive. Better to leave them to be and to prune enough the branches, up to reducing the size.

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In order that the "scale", does not continue attacking to your Camellias, it clarifies well his interior.

That your Camellias have a good ventilation. You are not to have afraid to cutting. Better to cut in the end moment of the flowering. Beside using the products adapted to eliminate what exists nowadays in your Camellias.

An example: The old Camellias who were bordering on the building of the " File of Indians " in Asturias, were pruned very loudly, to be able to work. Today, the Camellias are recovered but with many minor height.

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Perdon for my evil english.
Regards.

Here is a link that might be useful: Forum Camellias AEC

Thank you for the information what wonderful pictures!

I have experience with doing this with no problem. Cut the Camelia back to a size you can manage. You could prune it this Spring, removing 1/3 of the height and thinning its density, then move it in the Fall to prepare it for the shock. Camelia roots are shallow. You wont need a huge root ball. Prepare a planting hole first, make the move quick and have the hose ready to water it in before and after backfill. Look for more planting info for the variety you are planting. Some Camelias are planted a bit high, others are planted at ground level. Call your local extension service and an arborist to discuss it with them first, also. Professional opinions are worth their weight in gold.