Cinematographer
Cinematographers (directors of photography) design how a film looks through camera, lenses, light and movement, and lead the camera and lighting crew.
What the work involves
- Planning the look with the director
- Choosing camera, lenses and lighting
- Lighting and shooting scenes
- Supervising the colour grade
Where people work
- Production houses
- TV channels
- Documentary teams
Working independently. Almost always freelance; many own their own kit.
How the career progresses
Camera assistant
Focus pulling, loading, data.
Camera operator
Operates under a DOP.
Director of photography
Leads the camera department.
The PGA route in
Start at the level that suits you. Credits carry forward, so you can stop, work, and come back for the next step.
- Certificate · 4 months Digital Film Making Certificate
- Diploma · 1 year Digital Film Making Diploma
- Bachelor’s · 4 years BS TV & Film Production
- Postgraduate Diploma · 1 year Postgraduate Diploma in TV & Film Production