The Director of Photography is requested by Film Directors, and works closely with the Director, Production Designers, Costume Designer, and Hair and Make-up Department to give a film its visual look. The role of the Director of Photography, also known as Cinematographer, is to provide a unique visual look and continuity to the film with the use of lighting, still photography, camera movement, and framing.

After reading a script, the DP will meet with the Director to discuss camera angles and film continuity that will visually best portray the story. The DP will later do research on possible locations to determine what film, lighting, camera, filters, and more will be needed to get a precise look the Director wants. A DP is also one of the first people on the location to help set up equipment and run through rehearsals to determine where light should fall on the actors as they rehearse the scene. During this process, crucial communication is made to the Camera Operators, Grips, and Gaffers if any changes are needed. Once filming for the day is over, the DP prepares the work for the following day. DP’s have technical knowledge of camera equipment, lighting techniques for film and moving images, industry experience, photography, painting, and creativity.

Such recent notable DP’s have been nominated and/or won an Oscar:

2006-Guillermo Navarro, El laberinto del fauno (Pan’s Labyrinth)
2004-Robert Richardson, The Aviator
2002-Dion Beebe, Chicago
2001-Andrew Lesnie, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
2000-John Mathieson (BSC), Gladiator