Cinematographer

What do cinematographers do?

A camera/wo/man is responsible for running the camera on a television or film production. He/she works directly under the picture producer of the television production or the first camera/wo/man of the film production. Internationally, a distinction is made between camera/wo/man and first camera operator. In the video and television industry, the work of camera/wo/men is often about capturing the "moment" - an environment or process that is not planned in detail in advance. This often happens in live broadcasts, documentaries and interviews. The film equivalent, on the other hand, has the strictly defined task of using the camera to stick as closely as possible to the script, the storyboard, and thus the vision of the first camera/wo/man and the director. A cinematographer can also be a person who operates and guides a camera in other fields, such as plumbing, construction, search and rescue, and so on.

What do I need to know to become a camera/wo/man?

There is more than one way to become a cinematographer. You can take a special course at a film school and gain experience and knowledge of camera techniques through student work. Others start their careers as production assistants or interns in the camera department of a television station, gaining experience through their work and eventually becoming a cinematographer. Camera/wo/men need to be able to take and remember instructions, be solution-oriented and enjoy working in a team. Uncomfortable hours are not uncommon, and the job may require some travel. You have a strong interest in visual technology and enjoy being an important part of the creative process in film and television.

Source: StagePool, Wikipedia, Careers in film