Lead Cinematographer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium camera equipment

Health and retirement benefits

Competitive annual salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton seeks a visionary Lead Cinematographer to shape the visual narrative across diverse projects. You will guide the aesthetic vision, collaborate with directors, and oversee camera and lighting execution to bring stories to life with strong imagery.

The role requires leadership, mastery of light and composition, and excellence in communication. Join a dynamic production house offering significant creative influence and opportunities for growth in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as Cinematographer or DP with strong portfolio.
• In-depth knowledge of camera systems, lenses, lighting and digital workflows.
• Strong storytelling, composition and color theory understanding.
• Experience leading camera and lighting crews on set.

Responsibilities

• Translate the director's vision into compelling 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 or guide the crew to achieve desired aesthetics.
• Maintain high cinematography standards throughout production.
• Review footage to ensure visual consistency and impact.

Skills

Cinematography

Lighting techniques

Camera systems

Storytelling

Color theory

Leadership

Communication

Job description

About the Role

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 a master 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.