Cinematographer Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a cinematographer. Feel free to use our cinematographer job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a cinematographer.
Who is a Cinematographer?
Telling a story on a film isn’t just about recording the action; it includes how images are captured. Cinematography simply means the art and technology of motion-picture photography. The concept of cinematography involves various techniques including the general composition of a scene, camera angle and movement, lighting of a set or location, choice of filters, cameras, film stocks, and lenses, and the integration of special effects. Generally, cinematography aims to achieve the photographic images and effects desired by a movie or film director. As an endeavor, cinematography is used in many fields of science, and business as well as for entertainment purposes and mass communication. It is used to tell visual stories in a motion picture or television show and supports the general look and mood of a movie’s visual narrative. If great novels are an extraordinary collection of sentences, then good films are a perfect collection of shots. Arguably, the cinematography is the second most important aspect of film buffs after directing. Moreover, the impacts of certain shots play a significant role in the overall feel of a film. For instance, a medium shot helps the audience feel like they are part of the conversion while a wide shot places the subject in a more vulnerable position.
Also known as the director of photography, a cinematographer is an individual responsible for photographing a film, music video, television production, or other live-action pieces. They are often tagged as chiefs of the camera and light crews working on a particular project. The cinematographer is responsible for making technical and artistic decisions relating to the image and selecting the camera, lenses, film stocks, and filters. These professionals work under the guidance of the director to capture scenes and images according to the director’s vision. Normally, the director conveys his or her visual visions to the cinematographer and allows them the latitude to accomplish that effect. Usually, a cinematographer uses a lens to focus reflected light from an object into a real image that is transferred to some image sensors or light-sensitive materials. Also, they create the color, look, and frame of every shot in a film. In low-budget movies or films, a cinematographer can act as the camera operator as well. In contrast, a cinematographer might supervise a crew of camera operators and engineers on a larger film project. Cinematographers read screenplays and choose the appropriate angles for different scenes. They are tasked with ensuring the best possible shots for each scene.
Additionally, the creative choices of a cinematographer drive the visual impact of a movie or film. While creating dramatic images to prompt different emotional reactions from an audience, cinematographers make vital decisions on aspect ratio, image contrast, digital effects, and frame rates. The cinematographer is involved throughout a film production lifecycle. Before filming starts or during pre-production, the cinematographer analyses the screenplay and liaises with the director to discuss their creative ideas and inputs. Then, he or she conducts extra research on different styles that relates to the subject matter of the script.
Also, the cinematographer hires the camera crew, arranges for equipment, and purchases supplies during pre-production. During filming or production, a cinematographer works closely with the camera operators, lighting department, and directors to ensure the right visual outcome is achieved. They run the show, direct technical production, and ensure the correct lenses, cranes, Steadicams, lights, and dollies are used for each shot. Relatively, a cinematographer uses several methods to create specific looks for the scenes including shot sizes and widths in the production stage. During the post-production phase, the cinematographer works with a director or editor to ensure the color grading of the film or television show is spot on. They make sure the visuals represent the creative vision of the director in this phase.
Furthermore, cinematographers are flexible and adaptive to adjust to changing working conditions. As a cinematographer, you will have varying schedules and won’t necessarily clock out at 5 pm daily. Cinematographers work for long, unsociable, and irregular hours including weekends. Working in different locations to capture scenes is also associated with cinematographers; hence, they are called the blood life of a movie or film since they are involved in the entire production lifecycle of projects. In addition, a cinematographer creates new worlds and stories with the work of his or her camera. They employ their creativity and expertise in camera work to produce images that create a lasting visual impression on viewers. Significantly, the cinematographer or director of photography visually interprets a script of a film and gives it a unique look. Ultimately, cinematographers decide the tone of the script and use the best techniques, lights, and cameras to capture the vision.
The director of photography is one of the senior personnel in the film creation process and performs managerial roles as well. A cinematographer uses a moving image camera to obtain certain aesthetics for the production of a film. Besides being the visual ace of the screen, a cinematographer exhibits, showcases, and has a great understanding of the technology, energy for photography, and a heap of coordination. Professionals in the field of cinematography have excellent and massive job openings and career prospects with the expansion in the quantity of highlight, commercial, and narrative film creation organizations and new television channels being propelled often. Thus, top-notch cinematographers are open-minded, educationally sound, experienced, and skilled in graphic design and audio equipment handling.
Cinematographer Job Description
Below are the cinematographer job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a cinematographer job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
A cinematographer’s job description changes or varies depending on the nature and type of film. Cinematographers are the eyes and hands of the director’s vision; perhaps, a cinematographer’s role is the most powerful component of visual storytelling thereby making it among the most competitive, respected, and rewarding behind-the-scenes roles in the film industry. Although most of the duties of a cinematographer are performed on location, they are also involved in other phases of production such as pre and post-production. Regardless of the budget or size of the project, a cinematographer’s job description should contain several functions and roles such as;
- Collaborate with other filmmakers: Throughout a film’s production cycle, a cinematographer works closely with the director, editor, and other lead members of the crew to bring out the look, feel, and other visual elements of the project. Also, the collaboration includes selecting a color palette, making a shot list, and noting any challenges and goals for telling the story.
- Interpret storyboards and scripts: A storyboard gives a visual representation of the director’s vision; the cinematographer depicts this in the film. They interpret the overall tone and script and storyboard.
- Scout location and gather the camera equipment: A cinematographer submits a list of camera equipment to the line producer; this may include cameras, filters, lenses, and film stock amongst others. Also, the cinematographer accompanies the location manager to search for the best locations for the film. He or she surveys the area for natural light, space, and set up, and/or whether it falls within the visual outlook of the movie.
- Brainstorm ideas for photography: Before the production phase of a film, a cinematographer brainstorms ideas alongside directors, production designers, and other crew leaders to determine the look, feel, and visual storytelling techniques of the movie or film.
- Assemble and oversee the camera team: Teamwork is essential in cinematography and film production. Hence, the cinematographer assembles the camera crew or unit comprising of lighting staff, electricity staff, and cameramen or women. The director of photography or cinematographer oversees and supervises the camera team throughout shooting and ensures each shot is set up correctly.
- Shoot scene and review dailies: Importantly, a cinematographer shoots or directs, coordinates, and manages the shooting of film scenes. They focus and guide details such as composition, exposure, camera movements, and lighting. At the end of every day, cinematographers check dailies and record activities accordingly. Dailies are defined as the raw and unedited footage that was shot on that day. Dailies are reviewed to make sure that everything aligns with the original vision of the motion picture. The cinematographer decides on any compromise that may have to be made or what might be corrected when reviewing dailies.
- Block out scenes: In addition, the cinematographer attends rehearsals to set up blocking for each scene which determines where equipment, actors, and camera work will be located during shooting.
- Color grading: During post-production, cinematographers tweak the look and color of the film by advising the color crew on how the color palette should appear.
- Stay up-to-date on advances in the film industry and attend workshops and training where possible.
- Expand networks and maintain relationships with industry professionals.
- Trains crew members and new staff to safely use new and modified equipment.
Qualifications
Behind every successful film production is a team of directors who work together to create an inspired vision. A cinematographer is one of these leadership groups that employ creativity and technical abilities. Learning more about the desired qualifications for this specialized position is important for success in the field either as a freelancer or an employee of a film company. This section explains the major qualification requirements of cinematographers which includes the following;
Education and training: An education that covers coursework in photography, filmmaking, or cinematography in an accredited university or art school is desired. Preferably, the candidate should possess a bachelor’s degree in the aforementioned courses. The potential cinematographers are trained and provided with details on lighting, composition, and how to position the camera for the best angle in the aforementioned courses. Also, they understand the technical details of taking photographs and recording scenes in such courses.
Knowledge of film equipment: To become a cinematographer, the candidate must understand cinematographic equipment such as lenses and cameras. The knowledge of such devices is integral and paramount; employers prefer individuals with in-depth knowledge of this equipment. Hence, learn all you can about camera equipment, the advantages of different types of camera lenses, and how to alter camera handling techniques in different situations.
Experience: Experience is valuable and vital for employment as a cinematographer. Film directors and producers constantly seek candidates with hands-on experience and artistic sense. Therefore, gain experience by working on small films or documentary projects that can help give you portfolio footage.
Essential skills
The ability to work long hours, stamina, and physical strength are attributes required in cinematography. Nevertheless, a cinematographer needs to hone and develop certain skills to succeed in the career. Below is a list of the most important skills for a cinematographer;
- Excellent listening ability and strong team management skills.
- An eye for detail and a mind for quick invention.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Thorough understanding of lighting techniques, shade, light color, and manipulation.
- Flexible approach to adapt to several working conditions and environments.
- Strong technical knowledge of cameras and the film production process.
- Outstanding graphic design and production skills to make visual content.
How to Become a Cinematographer
There are several ways to get into the film industry. Follow these steps to become a cinematographer;
Earn a film degree and learn more
The first step in starting a career in cinematography is to earn a film degree in a university or film school. Degrees in filmmaking, cinematography, photography or related diplomas are recommended. These courses and institutions provide the opportunity to study the technical aspects of a cinematography career. Also, majoring in photography can give an individual the foundation in camera work and processes needed to become a great cinematographer.
Become familiar with your equipment and embrace your creativity
Since cinematography is a creative field that thrives on originality, it is crucial to embrace and show your creative and unique talents by contributing more to different films where possible. Relatively, if you want to show employers that you are ready to work, become familiar with different equipment in the field. Additionally, you should know how to manipulate cameras and other devices to achieve your artistic vision.
Build your reel and spend time on film sets
Next, try and spend time on film sets to gain experience and build your highlight reel. This will enable you to show production companies and film directors how serious you are about your craft. This portfolio should contain clips of your most compelling scenes or shots.
Network, make connections, and hone your technical skills
Even if you are the most talented cinematographer, nobody will hire you if they don’t know who you are. Therefore, network and make connections with professionals in the industry and other cinematographers. You can intern for a production company or volunteer to work for low-budget projects to put yourself out there.
Take on entry-level positions
Normally, a cinematographer hardly starts out shooting major motion pictures. The career trajectory involves starting as an entry-level cinematographer. Thus, apply for such positions and move to senior positions with time.
Where Can a Cinematographer Work?
The coming of different stations has opened doors of employment for cinematographers. Nowadays, cinematographers are employed by generation houses that make short films, documentaries, web series, and television series. Also, a cinematographer can work for a comedy or skit making individual or film. Cinematographers often work with film creation units, TV or video businesses, studios, and production companies. Also, the government and government agencies hire cinematographers. Other employers of a cinematographer include educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private freelance film agencies.
Cinematographer Salary Scale
Salaries for cinematographers fluctuate massively depending on the employer, size, and budget of each production or film. The level of experience, skills, and other factors contribute to how much a cinematographer earns as well. While some cinematographers make tens of thousands, others make relatively less on low-budget films. Thus, the estimated average salary or income of a cinematographer is $48,180 yearly.