Director of Photography

Role and responsibilities of the director of photography

He also takes part in the technical and artistic scouting of sets. They may carry out technical shooting tests (rendering tests on various cameras, make-up tests with the chief make-up artist, color-grading tests in post-production, etc.).

To prepare the film, he also makes contact with various trades directly linked to the image (chief set designer, costume designer, special effects manager, etc.), as well as with various service providers (equipment rental companies or post-production houses).

Together with the production manager, he draws up a technical list of the shooting equipment (cameras, lenses and machinery) and lighting equipment required for the shoot.

He generally assembles his own team (cameraman, assistant cameraman, etc.) in agreement with the production manager. For technical matters, he or she works with the first assistant director to draw up the work plan.

Role and duties of the director of photography during the shoot

The cinematographer directs the work of the camera crew (cameraman, assistant cameramen), the machinery team and the electricians. He works closely with the costume designer, set designer and make-up artist.

He or she is directly responsible for creating lighting on the set, takes part in technical rehearsals and ensures that each shot is technically correct.

He readjusts his lighting to suit the frame, material constraints and unforeseen circumstances. He is directly responsible for the technical quality of the rushes, and checks their rendering with the digital lab on a daily basis.

Role and responsibilities of the director of photography after the shoot

During color grading, he ensures the artistic coherence of the images by harmonizing colors and contrasts, among other things. They work with a color-grading supervisor who handles the purely technical side of this computerized operation.