BLOG QUESTION ADV: THE ROLE OF THE CINEMATOGRAPHER

What are the key responsibilities of the cinematographer on a film set? What is the cinematographer's relationship with the director?

The cinematographer is the head of the camera department, and they work closely with the lighting department in order to create the look of the film. They are also responsible for assisting in the decision of locations; they must work in a certain allotted time very efficiently, and they must know what equipment is needed to achieve the shots they want to get. They should also be able to effectively communicate with the director and work with the actors, as they also have a part in how the film will look. They must be able to construct an image based on the director's vision.