Cinematographers are the cameramen for motion pictures. They decide on the optimum angles and best cameras to capture shots. Sometimes cinematographers film from stationary cameras; on other occasions they film from cranes or on moving tracks. On larger projects, cinematographers might supervise a crew of camera operators and engineers, and they typically work closely with the directors of movies. A cinematographer is often referred to as the director of photography of a production. It typically takes both a top-notch educational background and several years of experience to become a professional cinematographer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, motion picture photographers, including cinematographers, earned a mean salary of $49,430 in 2011.
Earn a bachelor's degree in film or film production or a related field. Besides classwork in film theory and camera technique, you spend a lot of time working with digital cameras, video software and other computer-related technology.
Work as a production assistant or camera operator for at least a couple of years to get experience in the field. You are not likely to get a shot at a cinematographer position until after you have proven your mettle as a camera operator and started to build your personal and professional networks.
Demonstrate your interest in cinematography and develop your network by becoming active in a professional organization such as the American Society of Cinematographers. Participating in meetings and social events will help you meet new people in the industry and demonstrate your commitment to cinematography.
Express your interest in becoming a cinematographer to all of your network. You will likely have to start as an assistant cinematographer or as a cinematographer for small, low-budget projects, but if you produce top-quality camera work, you are likely to be noticed and can begin to apply for more senior positions.
- Consider going back to school to get a master's degree in film or cinematography if you are looking to teach at some point in your career.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook -- Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators
- The Art Career Project: Capture All of the Action With a Cinematography Career
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment Statistics -- 27-4031 Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Motion Picture
- MediaCollege.com: The Cinematographer
- Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images