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Cinematographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nrg Bluewater Wind

Director, Media

Lehi, UT · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Our ideal candidate is an experienced director and cinematographer with an award‑winning portfolio of captivating media. We are looking for a visionary and an organized operator: someone who can ...

BAYSIDE CHURCH

Filmmaker

Roseville, CA · On-site

For each project, clearly note the role you played in the production (e.g., director, cinematographer, editor). We want to see a range across short form, long form, podcast, promos, and event recaps.

NRG

Director, Media

Lehi, UT · On-site

Our ideal candidate is an experienced director and cinematographer with an award-winning portfolio of captivating media. We are looking for a visionary and an organized operator: someone who can ...

NRG

Director, Media

Lehi, UT

Our ideal candidate is an experienced director and cinematographer with an award-winning portfolio of captivating media. We are looking for a visionary and an organized operator: someone who can ...

Bayside Church

Filmmaker

Roseville, CA

For each project, clearly note the role you played in the production (e.g., director, cinematographer, editor). We want to see a range across short form, long form, podcast, promos, and event recaps.

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How much do cinematographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cinematographer in the United States is $27.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cinematographer do?

A cinematographer, also known as the director of photography (DP), is responsible for capturing the visual elements of a film, TV show, or commercial. They work closely with the director to determine the look, lighting, camera angles, and composition of each shot to support the story and mood. The cinematographer oversees the camera and lighting crews, selects camera equipment and lenses, and ensures that the visual style aligns with the director's vision. Their work greatly influences the emotional impact and aesthetic quality of a production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cinematographer?

To thrive as a Cinematographer, you need a deep understanding of visual storytelling, lighting, camera operation, and composition, often supported by a degree in film or relevant experience. Familiarity with cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and editing software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere Pro is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with directors and crew to achieve the desired visual style. These skills are crucial for translating a director’s vision into compelling visuals that enhance the overall impact of a film or production.

What are some common challenges cinematographers face when collaborating with directors and other departments on set?

Cinematographers often encounter challenges in balancing the director's creative vision with practical limitations such as budget, time constraints, and available lighting or equipment. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as cinematographers must work closely with departments like production design, lighting, and camera crews to achieve a cohesive look. Navigating differing opinions while maintaining a collaborative and positive set environment can be demanding, but it is essential for ensuring the visual storytelling aligns with the overall direction of the project.

What is the difference between Cinematographer vs Camera Operator?

AspectCinematographerCamera Operator
CredentialsFilm/TV degree, cinematography certificationsBasic camera operation training, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentCreative teams, film sets, studiosOn-set, live events, production crews
Industry UsageDirector of Photography, film and TV productionAssistants to cinematographers, camera crews

The main difference is that a cinematographer is responsible for the overall visual look of a project, including lighting and shot composition, while a camera operator executes the camera work under the cinematographer's direction. The cinematographer oversees the visual storytelling, whereas the camera operator focuses on operating the camera equipment during filming.

How much money do cinematographers make?

Cinematographers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals in high-budget productions earning significantly more. Salaries vary based on experience, location, project scope, and union membership, and many work irregular hours on film sets or in post-production environments.

Is there a demand for cinematographers?

Cinematographers are in demand across the film, television, and digital media industries, especially as content creation and streaming services grow. Skilled professionals with knowledge of camera operation, lighting, and editing tools are sought after, though competition can be strong in certain markets and roles may require a strong portfolio and technical certifications.
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Cinematographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cinematographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,100 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Cinematographer/Editor, West Coast

Hearst

Los Angeles, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Hearst rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 76 rated media

Job description

Be Part of What's Next

Bring stories to life through compelling visuals that captivate audiences across some of the world's most iconic media brands. Hearst Magazines is seeking a creative, technically skilled Cinematographer/Editor to join our Central Video Team, helping produce premium video content that informs, entertains, and inspires across celebrity, beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and more.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)

Hearst Magazines is home to 30 iconic brands that reach millions of consumers across print, digital, social, video, and emerging platforms. Our portfolio includes industry-leading titles spanning fashion, beauty, health, lifestyle, food, entertainment, and more. We are driven by creativity, innovation, and storytelling, empowering our teams to create engaging content and experiences for audiences everywhere.

Key Responsibilities (What You Are Doing)

  • Capture high-quality video content both in studio and on location, delivering visually compelling footage across a wide variety of editorial and branded productions.
  • Edit engaging short- and long-form video content for multiple platforms, including owned sites, YouTube, and social media, with a strong focus on pacing and storytelling.
  • Collaborate with producers and the Director of Photography to develop creative approaches, lighting plans, and production workflows that bring each project's vision to life.
  • Determine equipment needs for productions by building gear lists, managing camera and lighting packages, and maintaining production equipment on set.
  • Operate and monitor professional audio equipment, including boom microphones and wireless lavaliers, to ensure exceptional sound quality.
  • Scout production locations and provide recommendations on lighting, logistics, and technical feasibility to support efficient, successful shoots.
  • Drive production vehicles, including equipment cargo vans, to transport gear safely between studio and on-location productions.
  • Adapt quickly to shifting production priorities while managing multiple projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.


Qualifications (What We're Looking For)

  • 4+ years of experience in production, cinematography, video editing, or equivalent experience.
  • Demonstrated expertise operating Sony FX6 and Sony FX3 camera systems.
  • Strong experience lighting a variety of production styles, including interviews, beauty, seamless, three-point, high-key, and low-key lighting.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro for editing professional video content.
  • Working knowledge of professional lighting systems, including Arri SkyPanel, Litepanels Astra, Quasar, Kino Flo, LiteMat, Aputure, Nanlux, Godox, and tungsten fixtures; familiarity with Sidus Link is a plus.
  • Experience recording high-quality production audio using boom microphones and wireless lavaliers.
  • Familiarity with audio mixing, color correction, and color grading workflows.
  • Working knowledge of Adobe After Effects, Adobe Audition, and Photoshop is preferred.
  • Excellent storytelling instincts with the ability to craft compelling visual narratives across multiple formats.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to balance multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Comfortable lifting and transporting up to 50 pounds of production equipment.
  • A demo reel or portfolio of visual work is required for consideration.
  • Bachelor's degree in Film, Art, Photography, or a related field is preferred.
  • This position is based in Los Angeles and follows a hybrid schedule requiring four days per week in the office.


Benefits (What We Offer)

  • Work with the Best: Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
  • Grow Your Skills: Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
  • Work-Life Harmony: Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
  • Foster Connection & Belonging: Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
  • Wellness First: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
  • Plan for Your Financial Future: Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
     

The base salary range for this role is $68,340-$77,000. This position is not eligible for bonus or commission compensation. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, qualifications, and location.

Hearst Magazines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.  

This is a position covered under the Writers Guild of America, East, Collective Bargaining Agreement.

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