cinematography | career

WHAT IS A CINEMATOGRAPHER?

I chose to look into what cinematographers do for this assignment. Cinematographers work on the aesthetic vision of movies and television shows. This includes handling lighting, framing, lens choice, quality, and other technical/aesthetic aspects of the recording process.

Basically, cinematographers are responsible for carrying out the director's aeshetic vision. One of my favorite movies in terms of cinematography, or the lighting, framing, and coloring of the movie, is The Fall (2006). It was directed by Tarsem Singh and its cinematographer was Colin Watkinson.

WHAT DO CINEMATOGRAPHERS DO?

Cinematographers work with the director to help achieve the director's vision with varying levels of independence. Some directors allow cinematographers to work independently to achieve the vision the director wants, while other directors will sometimes take heavy control over many of the cinematographer's responsibilities (ex. lighting, framing, lens choice, etc.)

A typical workday for a cinematographer can vary based on the director and the stage of production their project is in.

WHAT CAN A CINEMATOGRAPHER MAJOR IN?

A degree is not necessary to become a cinematographer, although many choose to go obtain a bachelor's degree in film/film studies despite this. Generally, cinematographers should have a strong artistic/aesthetic sense, an understanding of framing and lighting, and the ability to work well under someone else's guidance, or with other people.

Film and film studies, or related fields (art classes, etc. that would help further an understanding of lighting, composition/framing, color, etc.), are good classes to go into to become a cinematographer.

WHAT ARE GOOD SCHOOLS FOR CINEMATOGRAPHY?

Some top-rated American film studies schools are listed below. These three schools have a focus on film studies and offer many excellent programs.

1. Belmont University, TN (U.S.)

   1. Offers a course called "cinematic storytelling" which all freshmen are required to take. This course allows the freshmen an introduction to production through the four productions they're required to make during it.

2. Biola University, CA (U.S.)

3. Boston University, MA (U.S.)

Sources:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fall_(2006_film)#

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinematographer

• https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/cinematographer/

• https://learn.org/articles/How_Do_I_Become_a_Cinematographer.html

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-cinematographer#:~:text=Cinematographers%20have%20many%20duties%20including,and%20knowledge%20for%20their%20careers.

• https://variety.com/lists/best-film-schools-north-america-2024/boston-university/