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Entry Level Cinematography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This is an entry-level, high-impact role for a hungry creator/creative who lives behind a lens and ... Proficiency with DSLR/Mirrorless cameras and mobile cinematography. You know how to dial in ...

This is an entry-level, high-impact role for a hungry creator/creative who lives behind a lens and ... Proficiency with DSLR/Mirrorless cameras and mobile cinematography. You know how to dial in ...

Entry Level Cinematography information

See salary details

$29.5K

$49.6K

$60K

How much do entry level cinematography jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cinematography in the United States is $49,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $54,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level cinematography?

Entry level cinematography refers to the starting position in the field of cinematography, where individuals work as assistants or junior camera operators on film, television, or video productions. People in these roles typically help set up equipment, manage lighting, and support senior cinematographers while learning the basics of visual storytelling and camera techniques. It's a foundational role that allows aspiring cinematographers to gain hands-on experience, build technical skills, and network with industry professionals before advancing to more senior positions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cinematography vs Entry Level Camera Operator?

AspectEntry Level CinematographyEntry Level Camera Operator
Required CredentialsBasic film or video production knowledge, possibly a degree or diplomaSimilar; often requires understanding of camera equipment and operation
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, TV productions, commercials, often collaborativeOn-location or studio shoots, operating cameras under direction
Industry UsageUsed broadly in film, TV, commercials, and digital mediaPrimarily in film and television production

Entry Level Cinematography focuses on the broader visual storytelling and lighting, while Entry Level Camera Operator specializes in operating cameras during shoots. Both roles require technical knowledge of camera equipment and are common starting points in media production careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cinematographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cinematographer, you need a solid understanding of visual storytelling, camera operation, composition, and basic lighting techniques, often supported by a degree or coursework in film or related fields. Familiarity with industry-standard cameras (like RED or ARRI), editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve), and basic grip equipment is commonly required. Creativity, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate well with directors and crew are vital soft skills. These abilities ensure that visual concepts are effectively realized on screen, contributing to the overall quality and impact of film and video projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level cinematographers when working on set?

Entry-level cinematographers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing lighting conditions, managing time constraints, and collaborating with larger production teams. Balancing creative vision with technical requirements and director expectations can also be demanding, especially when working with limited equipment or tight schedules. Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn from more experienced crew members are essential for overcoming these hurdles and growing in the role.
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Adjunct Faculty Pool, School of Film and Television Arts

Adjunct Faculty Pool, School of Film and Television Arts

Columbia College Chicago

Chicago, IL

$5K/mo

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

In addition to its regular, full-time faculty, Columbia College Chicago hires scholars, creative professionals and other industry-experienced Adjunct Faculty to teach courses on a part-time basis. These positions are not available every semester and are contingent upon student enrollment and the availability of funding.

To be qualified to teach at the college, candidates must possess a degree at least one level above the level at which they teach, with a terminal degree in the relevant discipline as the preferred credential. In terminal degree programs, faculty members will possess the same level of degree. In occasional cases, demonstrated currency in a specialized discipline and a sustained history of distinguished professional work, compelling creative achievements, or other significant experience in the relevant field may be considered as an alternative to the required degree.  

To be qualified to teach at the college, candidates must possess a degree at least one level above the level at which they teach, with a terminal degree in the relevant discipline as the preferred credential. In terminal degree programs, faculty members will possess the same level of degree. In occasional cases, demonstrated currency in a specialized discipline and a sustained history of distinguished professional work, compelling creative achievements, or other significant experience in the relevant field may be considered as an alternative to the required degree. 

The School of Film and Television  offers courses in Screenwriting, Producing, Directing, Cinematography, Production Design, Editing, Location Sound, Sound Design, Film Color and Finishing, and Film and television theory / history. 

To be considered for part-time teaching opportunities in the School of Film and Television, click on the link below to apply. Please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three references. Further materials, such as official transcripts sent from the degree-granting institution, may be requested at a later date.

Entry level compensation rate for teaching one 3-credit course as of Fall 2026 is $5,635.00. Compensation for courses that carry fewer or more than three credits will be prorated down or up accordingly.

At Columbia, we offer a rewarding work environment for our faculty and staff. We take pride in offering competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program, life, and accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits. Click here  for more information.

Columbia College Chicago actively promotes access to an expansive array of social and cultural theories, practices and perspectives that are vitally important to the successful delivery of a contemporary creative curriculum and the college's mission to educate students who will author the culture of their times. These principles are essential to the educational experiences of our students, staff, and faculty. 

We seek individuals with a demonstrated ability to work with students from a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds, and whose creative, scholarly and/or professional work contributes to a rich educational experience consistent with our mission. For more information, please visit: colum.edu/academic-access-and-excellence.

Additional Information:

  • Position subject to a background screening.

  • This is a union position.

  • This is position is overtime ineligible. 

    Columbia College Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning civil rights. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.