aka: Cinematographer, DOP
The director of photography is one of the most important and technical roles on a film set. Yet, surprisingly, many people don’t know anything about it.
On this page, we list everything you need to know about becoming a director of photography. We break down the job role, including duties, education, career route, and salary.
What Is a Director of Photography?
The director of photography (DOP) is the head of the camera and lighting department. They work closely with the director to create the look and feel of the film. This is done through meetings, creating storyboards, and test shots.
On each filming day, the DOP leads a team of tech crew to set up and shoot the scene. They will watch each take with the director and make sure every shot is useable. At the end of the day, they then view footage with the producer and director. In addition to this, the DOP might also watch over the editing and color correction stage.
The job description for the director of photography slightly differs depending on the film’s budget. For example, the DOP might also hold the camera in low-budget filmmaking. However, the DOP never touches the camera on high-end films.
This popular role is the perfect mix of creative and technical. In addition, it’s one of the highest paid roles on a film set.
What Does a Director of Photography Do?
Pre-production | – Create a script breakdown – Work closely with the director – Have production meetings – Attend the location recces – Hire the camera and lighting team |
Production | – Work closely with the director – Head of the camera and lighting team – Help set up camera and lighting – Watch over the film’s visuals – Provide advice on the film’s look |
Post-production | N/A |
How to Become a Director of Photography
Essential director of photography skills:
- Full filmmaking knowledge
- Photography
- Lighting
- Creativity
- Imagination
- Knowledge of all equipment
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Organization
The DOP is in a high position on a film set, so it will take a long time to succeed in this role. To begin with, you can get a degree or attend a film school. However, education can only teach you the basics, and you will still need work experience.
The DOP must have a wide knowledge of lighting, camera, and technical equipment. You will need various creative and practical skills as well to succeed in this role.
Finding Director of Photography Jobs
The DOP is an above-the-line job role in the film industry. Many DOPs work their way into the role by starting as trainees or assistants. Here is the standard progression within the camera department:
- Camera PA or Camera Trainee
- 2nd Assistant Camera (Clapper Loader)
- 1st Assistant Camera (Focus Puller)
- Camera Operator & Steadicam Operator
- Director of Photography
So, as you can see, it is possible to start at the bottom of the department and work up into this job role. In addition to this, you can work on low-budget films or music videos as a DOP and then work up to higher-budget projects.
Like with all positions, the DOP will need to network and make contacts in the industry. Often, people will first hire those they know and trust, so it’s typical for the director to work with the same DOP on different projects. In addition, a skilled DOP might have an agent to help them find work.
How Much Money Do DOPs Make?
Minimum pay rate for DOPs: $117.06/hour
If you look at our crew rates page, you’ll see how your pay can be affected by factors like project budget, production size, and union membership. What’s more, many production crew rates are negotiable, so you can ask for more based on your experience.