Lead Cinematographer — Elevate Visual Storytelling

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

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.