how to become a cinematographer

Cinematography is defined as the art or science of motion picture photography. It is a derivative of the Greek word kinema, meaning movement.  Much like a language, cinematography must be learned well before you can really communicate.

A great director of photography will define light and space to create the ultimate image. Not only does this include everything moving on the screen, but also the camera movements that are used to communicate with the audience.


Director of Photography


Image: Director of Photography Emmanuel Lubezki via tasteofcinema.com

The Director of Photography, also known as the DoP or DP, is the chief cinematographer. They are responsible for working with the film’s director to bring a story to life.  They are the second most powerful creative person on set. If the director was the president, the DP is the vice president. Many of the world’s greatest DPs belong to the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC).

The Director of Photography manages several production departments. Primarily, they are the chief of the camera crew. The camera crew is made up by several positions, all of which are responsible for setting up and using the camera itself. The DP is also in charge of the grip and electric departments. These departments, also called G&E, are responsible for providing the necessary power, lighting, and support gear for the camera.

Cinematography: Gravity
Image: Gravity – Director of Photography Emmanuel Lubezki via Evan Richards

Unlike other creative positions on set, you can actually breakdown everything a DP does. You may not know why a director made certain decisions, but by studying film and examining every frame, you can breakdown the work of the DP. Not only do you see the actual camera movement and character blocking on set, you can breakdown the type of lighting used and its placement. You can make a very accurate guess to what type of lenses where used, as well as support gear like a Steadicam or dolly.

There are tons of great cinematographers to study. One of my favorite resources is the cinematographer index from Evan Richards. Studying a film requires you to pause a movie and examine it. Richards has taken the time to take incredible stills from some of the most talented cinematographers. He then compiles complete breakdowns for some of the best films ever made. I can’t recommend this site enough.

There are also resources from cinematographers themselves, like Roger Deakins, who has a filmmaking forum on his site, and Shane Hurlbut, who has created in-depth tutorials in his Inner Circle.

Leave a Reply