Director of Photography

What is a DoP, or Director of Photography?

• Creates the visual identity, or look, of the film
• Works with the Director, camera crew and lighting department
• Manages all aspects of filming: from ordering and overseeing to recces to reviewing footage

What does a DoP do?

• Must discover photographic heart of the screenplay
• Create the desired look using lighting, framing, camera movement, etc.
• Works with Director to discuss visual style of film
• Prepare lists of all camera equipment needed
• On each day of the principal photography they come early with camera crews on set to prepare the equipment
• During rehearsals Director and DoP block the shots and discuss special camera movements or lighting with crew

What skills are needed?

• Have good technical knowledge of photo-chemical and digital processes
• Know about camera equipment
• Know about lighting techniques and how to achieve them
• Make decisions quickly
• Be flexible
• Be creative
• Have artistic vision
• Be detail oriented
• Be able to give and accept direction
• Have good communication skills

Are there any qualifications needed?

• Take a degree in stills photography for knowledge on understanding of composition
• Drama, art or film degree is good place to start

Where do I start?

• Start your career in a junior capacity, like as 2nd Assistant Camera to progress through the camera department
• Go through either camera or lighting department
• Work on a camera crew to fully learn the on-set hierarchy and traditions of working

More information at:

http://creativeskillset.org/job_roles/759_director_of_photography