Lead Cinematographer

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium equipment access

Health and retirement benefits

Competitive annual salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton is seeking a visionary Lead Cinematographer to shape the visual narrative of diverse projects. You will lead the aesthetic vision and execution, collaborating with Directors and creative teams to bring stories to life with compelling imagery.

This role demands mastery of light, composition, and camera movement, plus strong leadership and communication to guide crews and ensure cinematic quality across productions in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as Cinematographer/Director of Photography with a strong portfolio.
• Deep knowledge of camera systems, lenses, lighting and digital workflows.
• Strong storytelling, composition and color theory understanding.
• Experience leading camera and lighting crews on set.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Translate the director's vision into visual language through camera work and lighting.
• Select and manage camera equipment, lenses, and lighting setups for each project.
• Collaborate with directors, art directors and gaffers to plan and execute shots.
• Operate camera equipment or guide the crew to achieve the desired aesthetic.
• Maintain high cinematography standards throughout production.
• Review footage and contribute to visual consistency and impact.

Skills

Cinematography

Camera operation

Lighting techniques

Color theory

Storytelling

Leadership

Tools

Camera systems

Lenses

Lighting gear

Job description

Lead Cinematographer – Sandton

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead Cinematographer to shape the visual narrative of their diverse projects in Sandton. You will be responsible for the aesthetic vision and execution of all filmed content, working closely with directors and creative teams to bring stories to life through compelling imagery. This role requires mastery of light, composition, and camera movement, combined with strong leadership and communication skills. Join a dynamic production house that prides itself on delivering high‑quality, visually stunning content, offering significant creative influence and professional growth opportunities within the heart of Gauteng's business hub, fostering an environment of artistic excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate the director's vision into compelling visual language through camera work and lighting.
• Select and manage camera equipment, lenses, and lighting setups appropriate for each project.
• Collaborate with directors, art directors, and gaffers to plan and execute shots.
• Operate camera equipment or guide the camera crew to achieve desired aesthetic results.
• Ensure high standards of cinematography are maintained throughout production.
• Review footage and provide input on the overall visual consistency and impact of the final product.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Cinematographer or Director of Photography, with a strong portfolio showcasing a range of visual styles.
• In‑depth knowledge of camera systems, lenses, lighting techniques, and digital workflows.
• Strong understanding of storytelling, composition, and color theory.
• Experience leading camera and lighting crews on set.
• Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt to various production environments and demands.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Opportunity to work on high‑profile and diverse creative projects in Sandton.
• Access to premium camera and lighting equipment.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• A collaborative and inspiring work environment with industry‑leading professionals.