Cinematographer

Who is a Cinematographer?

Cinematography is the most complex and difficult aspect of film-making. Everything becomes hectic, especially in principle photography.

A good film-maker uses location, lighting and techniques to make the camera stand out. The training will give a better picture of the industry besides teaching on the subject. The associated degree covers the preparation of:

• Basics of film and television

• Camera

• Directing

• Sound design

The film-maker deals with the technical craft of film art.

Cinematographers are also known as Directors of Photography (DoP). The operator manages all visual elements of the film, such as lighting, composition, colour shades, camera movements, etc.

DoP directs the entire crew who work on the camera and film lights. DoPs play a very important and creative role in film production. They work with the director and give the film its unique appearance and identity. Cameramen and photography directors check the use of photographic and lighting equipment. Directors achieve a visual effect.

What do Cinematographers Do?

• They determine the type of light that each shot needs before it fires.

• The operator will most likely have a sun tracking app that will help them find out how the sun affects their day.

• A trained operator knows the lighting techniques that will make shots more cinematic.

• They move all the lights one inch to the left when they notice an improvement.

• They have the largest crew on set.

• They also need to be in constant communication with the director and set designer. This makes sure everyone is on one side when it comes to the look of the movie.

• Unique recording methods can lead to a film technique that achieves the visual goal.

• DoPs are responsible for managing camera and lighting teams. DoPs oversee the selection and manipulation of technical equipment. This helps them to create impressive on-screen images. The visual impact of the film depends on the creative decisions of the DoP. Before filming:

  • They dismantle the script
  • Study different styles and motifs related to the topic of the script

• They work on visual imaging and artists' performances to get the best results. DoPs work on the purpose and layout of the film project. They take technical pictures and achieve the greatest dramatic effects on the screen.

Who can be a Cinematographer?

As a DoP, you direct cameras, like the director regulates the actors on the set. The job is to bring the script to life with your camera, it's important to understand the skills required. You need to know how to shoot movies, illuminate the set and how each camera works.

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What are the career opportunities for a Cinematographer in India?

• Bollywood film industry

• Most of the work in this area is done by people who pay special attention to it, as digitization has officially affected the occupation. This breaks down to the fact that tuff oriented markets, which offer a lot of chances, need to take a shot at structuring a speciality.

• From the very beginning, you can join the business as an assistant filmmaker. When you have a decent and active meeting with your assistants, then you will get to the top of the film industry.

How much does a Cinematographer make in India?

In India, a cinematographer at entry-level is paid Rs. (94,000 – Rs. 100,000 per year.

With experience his/her salary rises to Rs. 480,000 – Rs. 600,000 a year. The salary also depends upon the project on which the cinematographer is working on.

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Where may I study Cinematography?

• Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune

• Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), Kolkata

• Whistling Woods International, Mumbai

• Asian Academy of Film & Television, Noida

• Seamedu School of Pro-Expressionism, Pune

• CRAFT Film School, Delhi

What are the study materials available?

• Manorama Yearbook

• History of Indian Cinema

• Deep Focus: Reflections on Cinema

• Directors’ Diaries: The Road to Their First Film

• Making A Career In The Film Industry

• Smita Patil: A Brief Incandescence

• Lensight

• Freedom: My Story

• Newspaper reading

• Update with current affairs

Interesting Facts

The first animated cartoon was made in 1906.