Director of Photography (DOP) / Cinematographer

3D Production House; Al Khobar; On-site; USD 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading media production company in Saudi Arabia seeks a Director of Photography with at least seven years of experience. The role involves shaping visual narratives through technical proficiency in cinematography while collaborating closely with creative teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong artistic vision and leadership skills to inspire teams in producing high-quality films and content.

Qualifications

• Minimum of seven years professional experience in cinematography.
• Proficiency with various camera systems and lighting techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and collaborate with creatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead visual strategy and execution for a variety of projects.
• Oversee camera and lighting departments and manage production teams.
• Collaborate with post-production teams for final visual alignment.

Skills

Visual Storytelling

Artistic Eye

Mastery of Light & Shadow

Adaptable Creative Style

Color Theory Expertise

Crew Leadership

Problem-Solving

Cultural Awareness

Safety Conscious

Tools

ARRI

RED

Sony Cinema Line

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director of Photography (DOP) with a minimum of seven years of professional experience to lead the visual direction of our diverse range of projects. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of the art and science of cinematography, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for crafting stunning and impactful visuals. From corporate films and commercials to documentaries and branded content, the DOP will be instrumental in translating creative concepts into breathtaking moving images.

Key Responsibilities:

• Visual Strategy and Execution: Collaborate closely with directors, producers, and the creative team to define and execute the visual style and photographic heart of each project, ensuring it aligns with the client's vision and brand identity.
• Technical Leadership: Oversee all aspects of the camera and lighting departments. This includes selecting the appropriate camera systems (e.g., ARRI, RED, Sony, etc.), lenses, and lighting packages for each production.
• Lighting Design: Design and implement creative and effective lighting schemes that enhance the mood, atmosphere, and narrative of the story. Must be proficient in both studio and location lighting techniques.
• Camera Operation and Cinematography: While leading a team, the DOP should also be an expert camera operator, capable of hands-on work when required. This includes shot composition, camera movement, and ensuring impeccable focus and exposure.
• Pre-production Involvement: Actively participate in the pre-production process, including script breakdowns, storyboarding, location scouting, and technical planning to ensure a smooth and efficient shoot.
• On-set Management: Lead and manage the camera and lighting crew on set, providing clear direction and fostering a collaborative and professional working environment.
• Post-production Collaboration: Work closely with the post-production team, particularly the colorist, to ensure the final grade and visual effects align with the intended look and feel of the project.
• Industry Knowledge: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in cinematography, camera technology, and lighting equipment to ensure 3D Media Production remains at the cutting edge of the industry.
• Mentorship: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior members of the camera department, contributing to the growth of our in-house talent.

Skills

Creative & Visual Skills:

• Visual Storytelling: A profound ability to translate scripts and creative briefs into a compelling visual narrative.
• Artistic Eye: A keen sense of composition, framing, and shot aesthetics with meticulous attention to detail.
• Mastery of Light & Shadow: The ability to design and execute sophisticated lighting schemes that create mood, shape environments, and enhance character.
• Adaptable Creative Style: Versatility to adapt your visual approach to fit various project genres, from high-energy commercials to cinematic corporate films and nuanced documentaries.
• Color Theory Expertise: A deep understanding of color psychology and the technical skills to develop and protect a specific color palette from pre-production through to the final grade.

Technical Proficiency:

• Camera Systems Expertise: Hands-on, expert-level knowledge of a wide range of professional cinema cameras (e.g., ARRI, RED, Sony Cinema Line) and their respective workflows.
• Lens Knowledge: A cinematographer’s understanding of lenses, not just as a technical choice (focal length, T-stop), but as a creative tool to influence the story's feel (e.g., anamorphic vs. spherical, vintage vs. modern).
• Advanced Grip & Movement: Proficiency with camera support systems, including gimbals (e.g., Mōvi, Ronin), dollies, sliders, cranes, and jibs to create dynamic and motivated camera movement.
• Digital Workflow Management: Strong understanding of modern digital workflows, including codecs, RAW formats (e.g., ARRIRAW, REDCODE), Log profiles, and the creation and application of Look-Up Tables (LUTs).

Leadership & On-Set Skills:

• Crew Leadership: The ability to lead and inspire the camera, lighting, and grip departments with confidence and clear communication.
• Collaborative Spirit: A proven ability to work constructively and respectfully with directors, producers, art departments, and clients to achieve a shared vision.
• Problem-Solving: A resourceful and quick-thinking mindset, capable of finding creative and technical solutions to unexpected challenges on set.
• Grace Under Pressure: A calm, professional, and positive demeanor, especially when dealing with the high-pressure demands of a fast-paced production environment.
• Cultural Awareness: An appreciation for and sensitivity to the local culture, with an interest in telling stories that resonate within Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
• Safety Conscious: A firm commitment to maintaining the highest standards of on-set safety for all cast and crew