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Cinematography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Avoca AI

Creative Producer

New York, NY · On-site

$165K - $190K/yr

Direct cinematography across customer site shoots, founder portraits, event capture, and aspirational brand photography, traveling 6-10 times per year to operator locations and industry events.

Syracuse University

Senior Video Producer

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$72K - $80K/yr

Portfolio demonstrating cinematography excellence AND directing/coaching work with challenging subjects. * Experience translating complex subject matter into compelling visual narratives.

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How much do cinematography jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for cinematography in the United States is $82,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $118,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In cinematography, high-paying roles such as freelance directors of photography or specialized camera operators can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with extensive experience, a strong portfolio, and industry connections. These roles often require technical skills, knowledge of camera equipment, and the ability to work on multiple projects or in high-budget productions.

What is a Cinematography job?

A cinematography job involves overseeing the visual aspects of a film, TV show, or video production. Cinematographers, also known as Directors of Photography (DPs), work closely with the director to determine the look, lighting, camera angles, and movement for each scene. They select camera equipment, lenses, and lighting setups to achieve the desired mood and storytelling effect. Their role is crucial in translating the script into compelling visuals that enhance the narrative.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a cinematographer on a film set?

Cinematographers are responsible for designing and executing the visual look of a film or video production, working closely with the director and lighting crew to achieve the desired aesthetic. On a typical day, they may oversee camera setups, select lenses, direct camera movements, and manage the lighting design for each scene. They consult with the director before and during filming to ensure every shot aligns with the creative vision, supervise camera assistants and operators, and monitor footage for quality and consistency. This collaborative and hands-on role requires creative problem-solving and adaptability, as filming conditions and creative direction can change rapidly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cinematography position, and why are they important?

To thrive in cinematography, you need a solid grasp of camera operation, lighting techniques, visual storytelling, and a degree in film production or related experience. Familiarity with professional cameras (such as ARRI, RED, or Sony), editing software, and understanding of color grading are common technical requirements, and some roles may seek certification from professional organizations. Creativity, strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities are vital to effectively shaping the visual narrative, meeting project deadlines, and collaborating seamlessly with directors and crew on set.

More about Cinematography jobs
What cities are hiring for Cinematography jobs? Cities with the most Cinematography job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cinematography jobs? The most popular types of Cinematography jobs are:
What states have the most Cinematography jobs? States with the most job openings for Cinematography jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cinematography jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cinematography jobs are:
Cinematography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cinematography job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 30% Full Time, 66% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 38% Physical, and 62% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,968 per year, or $39.9 per hour.
Student TA - FLM-201 Cinematography (Mosio), Su26

Student TA - FLM-201 Cinematography (Mosio), Su26

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, WA • On-site

$17.13 - $18.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Applicants MUST be a current student at DigiPen Institute of Technology to qualify for this position.
  • Student Employment at DigiPen is open to all currently matriculated students if they meet the qualifications for the job.
  • Students may not work during any time when they have a class scheduled, a class is canceled, or a class ends early.
  • Student workers must reside within the State of Washington. Remote work outside of Washington will not be permitted.
Job Title: Student TA - FLM-201 Cinematography (Mosio), Su26
Reports to: Chris Mosio
Class Time:
Tuesday - 4:00 - 7:10 p.m.
Essential Functions
A Teaching Assistant (TA) is expected to assist the instructor in the classroom as requested by the instructor. Responsibilities may include equipment setup and/or operation (e.g., running slide decks during lectures), facilitating student presentations, answering student questions during labs, pre-grading assessments, submitting attendance sheets, etc. TAs are expected to assist with grading outside the classroom, meet regularly with the instructor, and may be required to meet with students outside class to answer questions as needed. Other duties as assigned by the instructor.
TAs will meet weekly with the instructor for performance feedback and duty modification and will receive a full evaluation once per semester.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assisting with classroom setup
  • Assisting with hands-on lighting exercises
  • Shuttling film equipment between Rembrandt and van Gogh classrooms
  • Checking equipment out from the library
  • Providing constructive feedback in critiquing student work
  • May welcome and assist guest instructor or mentor
  • Accountable for tracking and reporting the amount of time worked

Qualifications/Competencies
  • Should be physically capable of carrying 20 lbs.

Expected dates of employment: May 12 - July 28, 2026
Expected number of hours per week: 4
*** Once again, students are not permitted to work during any time when they are scheduled for a class. ***
Wage Range:
$17.13 - $18.25 per hour, depending on number of terms worked at DigiPen
DigiPen Student Employee Academic Requirements:
  • Are currently a Matriculated student at DigiPen Institute of Technology
  • Good Academic Standing - not on Academic Warning as defined in DigiPen Course Catalog
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Have taken and passed FLM 201 or FLM 210 with a B or better

Requirement Exceptions:
It is possible to still be selected for a position with DigiPen if you do not meet the requirements above, so don't let that dissuade you from applying!
Once you have applied for - and the supervisor decides to offer you - a position, we will contact the necessary managers (Supervisor, Department Chair, and/or the Dean of Faculty) to complete and sign off on an Academic Waiver form, depending on which requirements need to be waived. Once the Waiver is returned to us, we'll continue you through the hiring process.
Equal opportunity is a priority of DigiPen Institute of Technology, as the institution is committed to fostering a positive learning environment for all. The Institute's intent is to hire the most qualified individuals for faculty and staff, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds of race and ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, veteran status, nationality, culture, religion, and physical abilities. We are committed to broadening our candidate pool to include more diverse individuals and ensuring fairness in hiring by avoiding bias and determining criteria to judge all candidates prior to posting each new position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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