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Cinematography Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Syracuse University

Senior Video Producer

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$72K - $80K/yr

Pay Range $72,300 - $80,000 Pay Determination Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a ... Portfolio demonstrating cinematography excellence AND directing/coaching work with challenging ...

Syracuse University

Senior Video Producer

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$72.30 - $80/hr

Pay Range Pay Range $72,300 - $80,000 Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination ... Portfolio demonstrating cinematography excellence AND directing/coaching work with challenging ...

New

Syracuse University

Video Producer

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

Pay Range $62,400 - $72,000 Pay Determination Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a ... Portfolio demonstrating cinematography excellence AND directing/coaching work. * Experience ...

Syracuse University

Video Producer

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$62 - $72/hr

Pay Range Pay Range $62,400 - $72,000 Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination ... Portfolio demonstrating cinematography excellence AND directing/coaching work. * Experience ...

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Cinematography Pay information

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How much do cinematography pay jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for cinematography pay in the United States is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cinematography Pay vs Camera Operator Pay?

AspectCinematography PayCamera Operator Pay
CredentialsFilm school or equivalent experience, portfolioTechnical training, on-set experience
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, studios, outdoor shootsFilm sets, TV productions, commercials
Industry UsageDirector of Photography, Cinematographer rolesCamera operation, equipment handling
Comparison FocusOverall cinematography budget and payPay for camera operation roles

While both roles are essential in film production, Cinematography Pay generally refers to the compensation of the Director of Photography or Cinematographer, who oversees the visual look of the project. Camera Operator Pay pertains to those who operate cameras under the cinematographer's direction. The pay for cinematographers tends to be higher due to their broader responsibilities and creative input, whereas camera operators are paid for technical execution. Understanding these differences helps clarify salary expectations in the industry.

Does a cinematographer make good money?

Cinematographers' salaries vary widely based on experience, project type, and industry. Entry-level cinematographers may earn around $30,000 to $50,000 annually, while experienced professionals working on major productions can make over $100,000 per year. Many cinematographers supplement income through freelance work, union memberships, and specialized skills with cameras and lighting equipment.

Is cinematography a good paying job?

Cinematography can be a well-paying profession, especially for experienced professionals working on major film or television projects, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and project scope. Entry-level cinematographers often earn less, but with skill development and a strong portfolio, earnings can increase significantly. Many cinematographers also supplement income through freelance work and collaborations with production companies.
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What cities are hiring for Cinematography Pay jobs?

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What states have the most Cinematography Pay jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Cinematography Pay jobs look for?

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Cinematography Pay jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cinematography Pay job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,806 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Senior Video Journalist, Cinematography (Temp)

The New York Times

New York, NY

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The New York Times is continuing to expand its video journalism, identifying compelling visual stories across the depth and breadth of our report. We showcase the expertise of Times journalists on-camera, share urgent news updates, produce on-the-ground reporting, pioneering Visual Investigations and video podcasts.

We are looking for a temporary Cinematographer with deep experience in digital video production to work across our news video portfolio. You will be part of a team developing new podcast video shows and new video formats.

You are a seasoned cinematographer with proven experience crafting news video with high standards for visual aesthetics, extensive experience with studio shoots, lighting in studio and on location, as well as audio equipment. We're looking for a cinematographer with demonstrated experience working efficiently in a newsroom environment.

This is a production-heavy position that will be responsible for shooting, lighting and managing the technical aspects of filming for news and podcast videos. You have a refined understanding of framing and lighting techniques in multi-camera environments with a meticulous attention to detail. You must see collaboration as central to your work and will work with producers, reporters, video and audio engineers, and editors to visualize our stories.

This is a temporary (12M) position based in New York City and includes regular attendance (4 days per week) in the office each week per your departmental guidance.

Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with other video journalists, producers, reporters and editors to plan and shoot visually compelling news videos.
  • Operate professional cameras and lighting equipment in multiple studio environments.
  • Work with our Operations staff to ensure fast and efficient transfer of footage and workflows, from production to post-production.
  • Demonstrate support and understanding of our value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world.
  • You will report to the Manager of Cinematography.

Basic Qualifications:

  • 8+ years of cinematography experience, including work in a digital or broadcast newsroom.
  • Expert knowledge of camera equipment, including a strong understanding of lighting and sound principles.
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating news or nonfiction storytelling with attention to camera movement, lighting and composition.
  • Experience setting up and shooting multi-cam productions in a studio environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience shooting in quick turnaround, high-pressure news environments.
  • Familiarity with the latest podcast video formats.
  • Experience collaborating with on-air reporters.
  • Expertise in Canon camera systems.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with others.

This position is represented by the NewsGuild of NY.

REQ-019968

Additional Compensation and Benefits

For roles in the U.S., dependent on your role, you may be eligible for variable pay, such as an annual bonus and restricted stock. Benefits may include medical, dental and vision benefits, Flexible Spending Accounts (F.S.A.s), a company-matching 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase plan, paid vacation, paid sick days, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement and professional development programs. 

For roles outside of the U.S., information on benefits will be provided during the interview process.

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