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Freelance Cinematography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CoCreativ

AI Artist (freelance to hire)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$500 - $800/day

Develop strong visual storytelling through composition, cinematography, editing, pacing, and shot ... Exceptional freelancers may be considered for full-time opportunities as our AI team continues to ...

CoCreativ

AI Artist (freelance to hire)

New York, NY · On-site

$500 - $800/day

Develop strong visual storytelling through composition, cinematography, editing, pacing, and shot ... Exceptional freelancers may be considered for full-time opportunities as our AI team continues to ...

CoCreativ

AI Artist (freelance to hire)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$500 - $800/day

Develop strong visual storytelling through composition, cinematography, editing, pacing, and shot ... Exceptional freelancers may be considered for full-time opportunities as our AI team continues to ...

MOCEAN

Director / Head of Game Capture

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

It's virtual cinematography that captures the soul and tactile feel of a game. You will direct live ... Oversee, mentor, and grow our team of in-house and freelance Capture Artists and Techs. Establish ...

Mocean

Director / Head of Game Capture

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

It's virtual cinematography that captures the soul and tactile feel of a game. You will direct live ... Oversee, mentor, and grow our team of in-house and freelance Capture Artists and Techs. Establish ...

Smosh

Camera Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... cinematography, production timelines, and the coordination necessary to support a fast-paced ... Support productions by coordinating freelance camera crew, securing equipment rentals, organizing ...

AEG

Videographer Internship

Trenton, NJ · On-site

... and cinematography. We are particularly interested in candidates who include short-form social content, medium-length features, and/or longer-form storytelling. Student, freelance, volunteer ...

Smosh

Camera Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... cinematography, production timelines, and the coordination necessary to support a fast-paced ... Support productions by coordinating freelance camera crew, securing equipment rentals, organizing ...

Smosh

Camera Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA

$26 - $30/hr

... cinematography, production timelines, and the coordination necessary to support a fast-paced ... Support productions by coordinating freelance camera crew, securing equipment rentals, organizing ...

Victory Church

Video Director

Lancaster, PA · On-site

... cinematography ability Advanced proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro Experience with After Effects ... volunteers, or freelance creatives preferred Bachelor's degree in film, media production ...

Victory Church

Video Director

Lancaster, PA · On-site

... cinematography ability Advancedproficiencyin Adobe Premiere Pro Experience with After Effects ... volunteers, or freelance creatives preferred Bachelor's degree in film, media production ...

Victory Church

Video Director

Lancaster, PA · On-site

... cinematography ability Advanced proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro Experience with After Effects ... volunteers, or freelance creatives preferred Bachelor's degree in film, media production ...

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Freelance Cinematography information

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How much do freelance cinematography jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance cinematography in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Cinematography vs Freelance Videography?

AspectFreelance CinematographyFreelance Videography
CredentialsOften requires a film or cinematography degree, portfolio, and technical skills in camera operationMay require a video production background, editing skills, and a portfolio of various video projects
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, studios, outdoor shoots, often with high-end equipmentEvent coverage, corporate videos, online content, often with portable equipment
Industry UsagePrimarily in film, television, and high-end commercial productionsIn digital content creation, marketing, and online media

While both roles involve video capture, freelance cinematographers focus on artistic and high-quality film production, whereas freelance videographers often handle a broader range of digital videos for various clients. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right path based on skills and project types.

How much do freelance cinematographers make?

Freelance cinematographers typically earn between $25 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, project complexity, and location. Many work on a project basis, with rates varying based on the scope of the production and their skill level, often requiring strong technical knowledge of cameras and lighting equipment.

Is there a demand for freelance cinematographers?

Freelance cinematographers are in demand across various industries such as film, television, advertising, and online content creation. The growth of digital media and streaming platforms has increased opportunities, especially for those skilled in camera operation, lighting, and editing with professional equipment. Building a strong portfolio and networking are essential for securing consistent work in this field.

What does a freelance cinematographer do?

A freelance cinematographer is responsible for capturing visual images for films, television, commercials, or other media projects. They operate cameras, select lighting, and work closely with directors to achieve the desired aesthetic, often using professional equipment and techniques. Freelance cinematographers typically manage their schedules and may need certifications or experience in film production.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Cinematography jobs?

The most popular types of Cinematography jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Cinematography jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Cinematography jobs include:

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Cinematography jobs are:

Freelance Cinematography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Cinematography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 61% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Director of Photography - Freelance - Los Angeles, CA

Mills James Inc

Columbus, OH • Remote

$64.25 - $72.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 17 days ago

Mills James rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 78 rated media

Job description

We are seeking highly skilled Directors of Photography in the Los Angeles market to collaborate on a project-by-project basis across a growing portfolio of commercial productions.

This freelance opportunity is ideal for cinematographers who bring a strong visual perspective, technical expertise, and a collaborative approach to storytelling. You’ll partner with our production team and creative leads to deliver high-quality branded content for a range of clients, while maintaining flexibility in your schedule and project selection.

What You’ll Do
  • Collaborate with directors and creative teams to define and execute the visual style of each project
  • Lead all aspects of cinematography, including camera operation, lighting design, and lens selection
  • Translate creative concepts into polished, highquality visual execution
  • Manage camera and lighting crews on set
  • Participate in location scouts and provide input on technical approach and visual opportunities
  • Ensure consistency in image quality, color, and overall look throughout production
  • Work closely with postproduction teams to maintain visual continuity and integrity
    • What You Bring
  • Proven experience as a Director of Photography or cinematographer in commercial, branded, or advertising content
  • Strong reel demonstrating expertise in lighting, composition, and camera movement
  • Deep understanding of digital cinema cameras, lenses, and lighting systems
  • Ability to work efficiently in fastpaced production environments
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Based in Los Angeles or able to work locally on assigned projects
    • Preferred Experience
  • Experience working on highbudget commercial productions
  • Versatility across shooting styles (studio, location, documentarystyle, tabletop, etc.)
  • Established relationships with Los Angelesbased crews and rental partners
    • Engagement Details
  • Projects are assigned based on fit, availability, and client needs
  • Scope, timeline, and compensation are defined per project
  • Directors of Photography manage their own schedules and availability

    • To Be Considered, Please Submit

  • Reel / portfolio
  • Resume or credits list
  • Gear familiarity (optional, but encouraged)
  • Brief introduction highlighting relevant experience

What Mills James employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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