DP, Nashville Short Drama (Paid)

BlockReel; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 18,000 - 37,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Meals provided

Craft services on set

Job summary

BlockReel in Nashville is seeking a Director of Photography for an upcoming dramatic short film. You will collaborate with the director on visual storytelling, lighting design, and shot composition, while leading the camera department during a small independent production.

Applicants should bring their own camera package (e.g., Blackmagic, Sony FX, Canon C series) and basic lighting/grip gear. A strong reel is essential; compensation is 100–200 USD per day, meals provided.

Qualifications

• Own camera package and basic lighting/grip gear.
• Strong reel showcasing narrative work.
• Collaborate with the director on visual storytelling.
• Open to all experience levels with a compelling vision.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the director on visual storytelling.
• Design lighting and grip setups for the shoot.
• Plan shot composition and framing for each scene.
• Lead the camera department on set.

Skills

Visual storytelling

Lighting design

Shot composition

Camera department leadership

Tools

Blackmagic cameras

Sony FX series

Canon C series

Job description

Director of Photography needed for an upcoming dramatic short film shooting in Nashville. This is a character-driven story about an artist grappling with a creative block and personal loss, exploring themes of resilience and self-discovery. We're aiming for a visually rich, intimate, and slightly melancholic tone that complements the emotional depth of the narrative. This film will be submitted to regional and national festivals. Your key responsibilities will include collaborating with the director on visual storytelling, lighting design, shot composition, and leading the camera department. We are looking for someone with a strong artistic eye who can bring a nuanced visual style to our project. You will be expected to provide your own camera package (e.g., Blackmagic, Sony FX series, Canon C series or similar) and basic lighting/grip gear suitable for a small independent production. A strong reel showcasing your narrative work is essential. We welcome DPs of all experience levels who have a compelling vision. Shoot dates are tentatively planned for 1-2 days in November 2026, with an estimated 10-12 hour shoot day. Compensation is $100-200 per day. Meals and craft services will be provided on set.

Budget Range

$100-200/day