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Washington DC Director of Photography Apprenticeship

Washington, DC · On-site

$35K/yr

This is not just a job, this is a career path and opportunity for individuals who want to grow into a director of photography. If you don't love to shoot, this job is not for you. Think of the first ...

CoStar

Director Photography

Richmond, VA

Director Photography Director, Photography-CoStar Group-Richmond, VA Company Overview: CoStar Group ... CSGP) is a leading global provider of commercial and residential real estate information, analytics ...

The Guardian

US Head of Photography

New York, NY · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

You will commission and curate editorial photography across the region and take responsibility for direct management of regional picture editors/photographers. You will be accountable for applying ...

Visual Lease

Director Photography

Richmond, VA · On-site

$135 - $165/hr

Reporting to the VP of Photography, the Director of Photography will lead a team of managers who oversee field photography teams supporting CoStar Group brands, including Homes.com, Apartments.com ...

CoStar Group

Director Photography

Richmond, VA · On-site

Director Photography Director, Photography-CoStar Group-Richmond, VA Company Overview: CoStar Group ... CSGP) is a leading global provider of commercial and residential real estate information, analytics ...

The Guardian

US Head of Photography

New York, NY

$130K - $140K/yr

You will commission and curate editorial photography across the region and take responsibility for direct management of regional picture editors/photographers. You will be accountable for applying ...

CoStar Group

Director Photography

Richmond, VA

Director Photography Director, Photography-CoStar Group-Richmond, VA Company Overview: CoStar Group ... CSGP) is a leading global provider of commercial and residential real estate information, analytics ...

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Director Of Photography information

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$11K

$107.2K

$201.5K

How much do director of photography jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of photography in the United States is $107,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,500.00 and $182,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of photography do?

As a director of photography (DOP), or cinematographer, your job is to create the visual dynamics of mood, tone, and style in films and film projects, like television shows and commercial advertisements. Together with the director, the production designer, and other crew members, one of your responsibilities is to coordinate the technical aspects of the filming process, such as creative lighting, visual effects, camera angles and shots, to achieve the desired look for a particular motion picture. Your job duties also include supervising the camera crew during production.

What is a director of photography?

A Director of Photography (DP or DoP), also known as a cinematographer, is responsible for the visual look of a film, television show, or commercial. They work closely with the director to achieve the desired artistic and technical vision, overseeing camera crews, lighting, composition, and shot selection. The DoP chooses the appropriate cameras, lenses, and lighting setups, and ensures consistency in visual style throughout the production. Their work has a significant impact on how a story is visually told and experienced by the audience.

How does a director of photography typically collaborate with the director and other departments during a film production?

A Director of Photography (DP) works closely with the director to realize the visual style of the film, discussing storyboards, shot composition, and lighting to ensure the director's vision is achieved. The DP also collaborates with departments like art, lighting, and camera to coordinate setups and maintain consistency in the visual narrative. Regular communication and problem-solving with these teams are essential, especially when adapting to changes on set or resolving technical challenges. This role requires balancing creative input with practical considerations, making teamwork and adaptability key to success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of photography?

To thrive as a Director of Photography, you need a deep understanding of cinematography, lighting, composition, and camera operation, often supported by a degree in film or extensive on-set experience. Mastery of digital and film cameras, lighting rigs, color grading software, and familiarity with post-production workflows are essential technical requirements. Strong collaboration, creative vision, leadership, and adaptability set standout DPs apart in managing crews and interpreting a director's intent. These skills ensure that the visual storytelling aligns with the creative vision while maintaining technical excellence and efficient production workflows.

What is the difference between Director Of Photography vs Camera Operator?

AspectDirector Of PhotographyCamera Operator
CredentialsFilm or cinematography degree, extensive experienceTechnical training, often on-the-job experience
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with directors, oversees visual styleOperates camera equipment on set
Industry UsageHigh-level role in film and TV productionTechnical role supporting the DP
Search IntentUnderstanding visual leadership in productionTechnical camera operation details

The Director Of Photography (DP) is responsible for the overall visual look of a production, overseeing lighting, framing, and camera work. The Camera Operator executes the camera movements and shots as directed by the DP. While the DP manages the visual style and team, the Camera Operator focuses on capturing the shots. Both roles are essential, but the DP has a broader creative and leadership role in the production process.

How much do directors of photography make?

The average salary for a director of photography ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on experience, project scope, and industry. Experienced DPs working on major productions or in high-demand markets can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and per-project fees.
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Director Of Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Photography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,150 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Washington DC Director of Photography Apprenticeship

Go To Team

Washington, DC • On-site

$35K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

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Job description

Are you a passionate storyteller who’s ready to take your shooting to the next level? Assignment Desk is offering a unique pathway and opportunity for individuals who love to shoot and have a great eye. This position is designed for video/digital format shooters (not still photographers... no offense) that want to gain the experience needed to shoot, run audio, and light at the highest level. We have successfully run this apprenticeship for 20+ years. This is not just a job, this is a career path and opportunity for individuals who want to grow into a director of photography. If you don’t love to shoot, this job is not for you.


Think of the first year as your boot camp. The first year will initially be based in Washington, DC and you will work regularly with our DC staff DP for clients like: The Volume, ESPN, NFL Network, ABC, NBC and E!. We will provide you training both on and off the field. You will be working as a camera assist, running audio, and lighting, etc. Anything and everything to teach you all aspects of high-end video production. At the end of the Apprenticeship phase (8-12 months), you’ll be considered for a multi-year contract position where we’ll continue to train you and develop you into a Director of Photography. If chosen to advance, you’ll be placed in your own market/city with a full gear package and truck outside of Washington, DC where you’ll continue your journey with Assignment Desk. If you want to

live full-time in Washington, DC, then this position is not for you.


This position is designed for talented storytellers who are looking to grow into a DP at the highest level. We often work odd hours on short notice where some weeks are busier than others. Lots of driving and heavy travel are guaranteed. Our crews drive hundreds of miles before and after shooting on a regular basis. If you do not like to drive, this position isn’t for you. Experience in PA, Audio and Grip work are a plus. However, a solid reel and hard working attitude are key.


Requirements: Valid Driver’s License, Passport & Dependable Vehicle.

Yearly Salary: $35,500 + Commission

Term: Multi year contract. The apprenticeship is a 12 month paid apprenticeship with review and first right of hire for remainder of the contract at 9 months.


Federal Apprenticeship guidelines require at least a college degree or two years of work related experience.


There is only one way to apply. Tell us a story with material that you’ve shot. While student films are interesting they’re not what we do. 98% of what we shoot is “make you care” pieces for major sports, news and entertainment companies. Make your reel three minutes max. We need to see interviews and B-Roll. Color and time lapses are a plus, but put together one cohesive demo reel that tells us about you (stylistically) from behind the lens. Do not send us multiple links to your work. This needs to be a unique reel to Assignment Desk meeting the requirements above. One hint... watch the reels on our website.


All Applicants must have a reel. No exceptions. Applicants without a reel will not be accepted. Please include an email address. Reels and Resumes will be accepted on or before August 1st. Reels received after the August 1st deadline will not be accepted or reviewed. Reels will be accepted one way only.


Email a downloadable link to your reel via Vimeo or Dropbox. Make sure to attach your cover letter and resume in the email.


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