Cinematographers and Directors of Photography

Employers

Motion picture studios, production companies, independent producers, and documentary filmmakers all employ cinematographers, either as salaried employees or as freelancers. Approximately 36,500 television, video, and motion picture camera operators (a category that includes cinematographers) are employed in the United States. Most freelancers are responsible for finding their own projects to work on, but a few are represented by agents who solicit work for them.

Starting Out;

Internships are a very good way to gain experience and help you to become a marketable job candidate. Since local television stations and lower budget film productions operate with limited funds, they may offer internships for course credit or experience instead of a salary. You should check with your state's film commission to learn of productions in your area and volunteer to work in whatever capacity needed. Many production opportunities are also posted on the Internet. By working on productions, you'll develop relationships with crew members and production assistants, and you'll be able to build a network of industry connections.

Before working as a cinematographer, you'll likely work as a camera assistant or production assistant. To prepare yourself for this work, try to gain some experience in camera work with a college broadcasting station, a local TV crew, or advertising agency.

Camera operators may choose to join a union because some film studios will hire only union members. The principal union for this field is the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE). Union members work under a union contract that determines their work rules, pay, and benefits.