Director of Photography

Essentially, the Director of Photography is responsible for the look and feel of a piece on film.

Three things are necessary to become a good director of photography: training, experience, and a good eye.

On set, the director of photography or DP supervises the camera and lighting crews, and he or she will work closely with the set designers, costumers, and makeup artists. Often, the director of photography and the director both have final say over which cuts will be included in the finished piece, and the two work closely together to achieve the desired look.

The director of photography will use lighting, filters, and a variety of camera techniques to shoot a scene in accordance with the wishes of the director.

A director of photography may also be involved in post-production, working with the sound and color artists to develop and reproduce the film. The DP often works closely with the editing staff as well, creating a consistent lookthroughout a scene, even if it was shot over the course of hours or days.

The relationship between a director of photography and a director can vary. A really talented director of photography may require minimal direction, as he or she instinctively understands what is needed. Other directors prefer more control, and they may go as far as to specify particular settings on the camera, especially with new and unfamiliar directors of photography, to ensure that the piece turns out as they envision.

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