Becoming a Cinematographer: Tips to Start Your Career

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

Embarking on the path to become a cinematographer is like venturing into the heart of visual storytelling. Whether it's an intimate indie film or a blockbuster Hollywood movie, the magic starts with the person behind the camera. So, how to become a cinematographer? Let's dive into the first step — getting to know your gear.

1. Know Your Gear

Just like a painter knows their brushes, understanding your equipment is the first step towards becoming a skilled cinematographer. When you know your gear, you can focus more on the art of cinematography rather than struggling with technical issues.

Camera Types

Think of different camera types as the various paintbrushes at your disposal. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS R5 or the Sony A7 III are fantastic for beginners due to their affordability and flexibility. For more professional work, you might consider digital cinema cameras such as the ARRI Alexa or the RED Komodo. Remember, each camera type has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best one for you depends on your specific needs and budget.

Camera Settings

Imagine you're in New York City, about to shoot a nighttime scene. To capture the city lights, you need to understand camera settings like ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. For example, a high ISO can brighten your image, but it may also introduce more digital noise. Mastering these settings will allow you to adapt to any shooting environment and bring your creative vision to life.

Camera Lenses

Lenses can dramatically change the look of your scene. A wide-angle lens, like the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L, can capture sweeping landscapes, while a telephoto lens can bring distant objects into focus. Don't forget about prime lenses either. They have a fixed focal length, which can limit flexibility but often provide superior image quality. Learning about different lenses and their effects is a key step in understanding how to become a cinematographer.

2. Learn Lighting Techniques

Lighting is the secret sauce of cinematography. It sets the mood, directs the viewer's attention, and can turn an ordinary shot into a cinematic masterpiece. So, how does one master the art of light and shadow?

Natural Light

Natural light is a cinematographer's best friend and biggest challenge. The golden hour — the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset — provides a beautiful, soft light that can add magic to any scene. But remember, Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Clouds, rain, or the wrong time of day can ruin your best-laid plans. As a cinematographer, you'll need to learn how to work with these changes, not against them.

Artificial Light

When natural light isn't enough, artificial light comes to the rescue. From small LED panels to powerful HMI lights, artificial lighting gives you control over every aspect of the scene. But remember, it's not about how much light you have—it's about how you use it. Shadows can be just as important as light to create depth and mood. Just think about the dramatic shadows in a classic film noir!

Light Angles

Ever noticed how the appearance of a person or object can change dramatically based on the direction of the light? This is the power of light angles. Side lighting can emphasize textures, back lighting can create a silhouette effect, and front lighting can eliminate shadows for a clean look. Experiment with different angles to see how they transform your scene. As you continue to learn how to become a cinematographer, understanding light's impact will be an invaluable skill.

3. Master Camera Movement

Imagine watching a film where the camera never moves. Pretty boring, right? Camera movement adds dynamism and excitement to a scene, draws the viewer in, and can tell a story all by itself. Ready to go beyond static shots? Here's how:

Panning

Panning is when you move the camera horizontally from a fixed position. This technique can give the viewer a panoramic view of the setting or follow a moving subject. Remember that scene in "The Shining" where the camera pans across the creepy hotel? That's the power of panning!

Tilting

Tilting is like panning, but vertical. It's a great way to reveal something to the viewer—think of a shot that starts on someone's feet and tilts up to reveal their face. You can also use tilting to follow a subject moving up or down, like an athlete jumping into the air or a cat climbing down a tree.

Tracking Shots

Tracking shots, where the camera moves along with the action, can make the viewer feel like they're part of the scene. Whether you're following a character walking down the street or a car speeding along a highway, tracking shots add energy and momentum to a film. Remember the famous Copacabana scene in "Goodfellas"? That's a tracking shot at its finest. As you continue in your journey on how to become a cinematographer, mastering these movements will be a game changer.

4. Build Your Portfolio

You've mastered the techniques, now it's time for action. Building a strong portfolio is the best way to showcase your skills and creativity. It will be your ticket to landing jobs and making a name for yourself in the film industry. So, what's the best way to build a portfolio that stands out? Let's take a look:

Short Films

Short films are a great way to start. They're like mini-movies that allow you to experiment with different styles, techniques, and narratives. You can shoot a romantic comedy, a suspense thriller, or even a documentary about your local farmers market. The key is to show variety and creativity. And who knows? Maybe your short film could be the next "Whiplash"!

Music Videos

Music videos are another excellent way to showcase your cinematography skills. They offer a chance to play with visual metaphors, unconventional storytelling, and stunning visuals that match the rhythm and mood of the song. Think about the iconic music videos from artists like Beyoncé or OK Go—they're mini masterpieces of cinematography.

Commercials

Commercials may not be as glamorous as films or music videos, but they're a practical way to build your portfolio. They're often short, which means you can work on multiple projects and show a range of styles. Plus, they can pay the bills while you're working on your dream to become a cinematographer.

5. Network in the Industry

Now, you've got your gear down pat, your lighting techniques sorted, your camera movements are smooth, and your portfolio is bursting with creativity. But, there's one more step on your journey on how to become a cinematographer: Networking. Let's see what this entails.

Film Festivals in Los Angeles, California

Film festivals are great platforms to showcase your work and meet like-minded people. Los Angeles, California, is home to some of the biggest film festivals in the world. Imagine rubbing shoulders with industry leaders at the Sundance or the LA Shorts Fest! These festivals can provide a wealth of opportunities to learn, network, and showcase your work.

Industry Events in New York, New York

Industry events offer another excellent platform for networking. New York, aka the Big Apple, hosts a myriad of such events. From the New York Film Conference to the American Society of Cinematographers Master Class, these events offer a chance to learn from the greats, network with peers, and stay updated on industry trends.

Online Platforms

Lastly, don't underestimate the power of online networking. Platforms like LinkedIn, Vimeo, and even Instagram can be a great way to connect with professionals around the world. You can share your work, ask for feedback, and even collaborate with other aspiring cinematographers. So, don't shy away from sending that connection request or leaving a comment on someone’s work you admire—it could be the start of something big on your journey to becoming a cinematographer.

If you're interested in pursuing a career in cinematography, don't miss the workshop 'Understanding Cinematography' by Jessy Moussallem. This workshop offers valuable insights and tips to help you get started in the world of cinematography, giving you the foundation you need to succeed in this exciting profession.