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Cinematographers and Directors of Photography

Overview

The cinematographer is a master of the movie camera and lighting equipment. This professional is instrumental in establishing the mood of a film by putting the narrative aspects of a script into visual form. The cinematographer is responsible for every shot's framing, lighting, color level, and exposure—elements that set the artistic tone of the film. Approximately 36,500 television, video, and motion picture camera operators (a category that includes cinematographers) are employed in the United States. Cinematographers are also known as directors of photography.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree

Certification/License

None

Outlook

Faster than the Average
Personality Traits

Artistic

Hands On

Technical

Career Ladder
Cinematographer

Assistant Director of Photography

Camera Operator

Assistant Camera Operator

Related Professions