TV/Film Industry Career Profile: Director of Photography

Cinematography and it’s intricacies, explained.

The title of Director of Photography (DP) is often similar, and at times interchangeable with that of Cinematographer, and indicates the head of the lighting and camera crews working on a set. The DP will consult with the Director of the film, and make choices regarding the lighting, filtration, framing, lens choices and film stock selection. Depending on the relationship with the Director, the DP will be solely or jointly responsible for all artistic and technical decisions related to the image, in order to achieve the look and results that the Director wants.

Responsibilities

Daily duties of a DP may include; meeting with the Director to discuss and block the shots, ordering and setting up of special equipment (cranes, wide lenses etc), dictating camera moves and set requirements to the Camera Operator, Gaffer and Grip, working the camera, attending the post-production digital grading, among many other responsibilities.

Skills
Prospective employers will be looking for individuals who are able to work well in a team, and communicate well with others on the set; this means the ability to both give and accept direction, with tact when necessary. Experience in operating and assisting with cameras and lighting equipment is a must, as is a personal combination of creative spark and technical know-how, in order to achieve the desired look and shape the visual style of the film.

Experience

A basic interest in cinematography may begin in still photography, where an understanding of composition and light are often developed. Useful skills can be evolved studying film or photography to a degree level, and specialized schools can lead towards an MA in Cinematography. The majority of DPs will have worked their way up from 2nd Camera Assistant through the ranks to Camera Operators, and experience will mostly start on shorter projects, promo videos and commercials.

Current Cinematography Jobs

Director of Photography Jobs
Camera Operator Jobs
1st Camera Assistant Jobs
2nd Camera Assistant Jobs

Associations

The International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600) represents approximately 6,000 members who work throughout the United States, Canada and the rest of the world in film and television as Directors of Photography, Camera Operators, Visual Effects Supervisors, Still Photographers, and all members of camera crews. cameraguild.com

Back in the silent movie era, cinematography was absolutely key in bringing the story to life. With no live sound and no dialogue, and no post effects, the films depended purely on on lighting, acting and set. Therefore, in 1911, the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) was formed in Hollywood to recognize the cinematographer’s contribution motion picture making. theasc.com/

by Lee Jarvis.

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Tags: Camera Assistant, Camera Operator, Cinematography, Director of Photography, DP, lighting, set, Visuals