Cinematographers and Directors of Photography

Cinematographers and directors of photography often start out in assisting positions that are related to the craft. Some may start as a helper in an editing room and then move up to editing assistant and then film editor. From there, they may gain enough experience to become a cinematographer. Many cinematographers bypass this route up the ladder by making their own films—proving their skills by making their own cinematic creations. The profession requires creativity to envision how the final product will look to an audience. Cinematographers need to be attentive to detail in order to follow all the many parts that go into making a film, from lighting to sound to the actors and props. A keen visual sense helps, along with technical skills to fully employ the latest special effects and techniques.

Cinematographers need to keep abreast of technological innovations while working in the industry. They must be comfortable with the technical, as well as artistic, aspects of the profession. Cinematographers also must be good, decisive leaders and managers in order to effectively direct and manage their crews.