Senior Cinematographer for Feature Films

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 554,000 - 1,661,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive day rate

Travel opportunities within SA

Cutting-edge production tech

Creative collaboration

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Cinematographer in Tembisa, Gauteng, to lead visual storytelling for upcoming feature film projects. The role demands a creative eye for lighting, composition, and camera movement, translating director vision into compelling imagery.

The successful candidate will oversee camera and lighting departments, collaborate with directors and gaffers, and mentor junior crew while delivering high-quality visuals under pressure.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years as Cinematographer on feature films.
• Proven ability to translate ideas into striking images for screen.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with director and production to shape visual style for feature films.
• Lead camera and lighting departments; supervise crew and budget for these teams.
• Operate cameras including Steadicam, cranes, and drones to capture dynamic shots.
• Design lighting schemes to enhance mood, composition, and narrative.
• Coordinate with gaffer and grip to achieve lighting and aesthetics.
• Ensure highest image quality, meeting technical specs and artistic goals.
• Troubleshoot camera, lens, lighting, and related equipment issues.
• Participate in location scouting and production planning for camera needs.
• Mentor junior camera and lighting crew members.
• Stay updated on industry trends and new filmmaking technologies.

Skills

Cinematography

Leadership

Camera systems (ARRI/RED)

Lenses & optics

Lighting design

Color theory

Post-production workflows

Team mentorship

Problem-solving under pressure

Visual storytelling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Film Production or Cinematography

Tools

ARRI cameras

RED cameras

Lenses

HMIs and LEDs

Grip gear

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished production company in Tembisa, Gauteng , is seeking a highly skilled and visionary Senior Cinematographer to lead the visual storytelling for upcoming feature film projects. This role demands an artist with a keen eye for detail, a profound understanding of lighting, composition, and camera movement, and the ability to translate directorial vision into compelling imagery. The Senior Cinematographer will be responsible for establishing the visual style of the films, working closely with directors, producers, and the gaffer to achieve artistic and technical excellence. You will oversee the camera and lighting departments, ensuring that all equipment is utilized effectively and safely. This position requires a blend of creative artistry and technical proficiency, coupled with strong leadership qualities to inspire and guide the crew. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of delivering exceptional visual content for the screen and a passion for pushing creative boundaries in filmmaking.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the director and production team to develop and execute the visual concept and style for feature films.
• Lead and manage the camera and lighting departments, including crew supervision, equipment selection, and budget management for these departments.
• Operate cameras, including specialized equipment such as Steadicam, cranes, and drones, to capture dynamic and artistic shots.
• Design and implement lighting schemes that enhance mood, composition, and narrative.
• Work closely with the gaffer and grip departments to achieve the desired lighting and visual aesthetics.
• Ensure the highest quality of image capture, adhering to technical specifications and artistic requirements.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to cameras, lenses, lighting, and other cinematography equipment.
• Participate in location scouting and production planning meetings to assess and plan camera and lighting needs.
• Mentor and guide junior members of the camera and lighting crews.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, new technologies, and filmmaking techniques.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (minimum 7 years) as a Cinematographer on feature film projects, with a strong portfolio showcasing diverse visual styles.
• Demonstrated ability to create compelling visual narratives and translate complex ideas into striking images.
• Expertise in various camera systems (e.g., ARRI, RED), lenses, lighting equipment (e.g., HMIs, LEDs), and grip gear.
• Strong understanding of color theory, composition, and visual storytelling principles.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and direct a technical crew effectively.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and the capacity to work under pressure in demanding production environments.
• Proficiency in post-production workflows, including color grading and digital intermediates.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, essential for collaborating with directors and other department heads.
• Bachelor's degree in Film Production, Cinematography, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• A creative vision and passion for the art of filmmaking.

Benefits

• This is a contract position offering a competitive day rate commensurate with extensive experience.
• While this role is primarily based in Tembisa, Gauteng , occasional travel within South Africa may be required.
• Our client provides opportunities to work on ambitious film projects with talented professionals and offers exposure to cutting-edge production technology.
• We believe in nurturing creative talent and provide a collaborative environment that encourages artistic growth and innovation in the film industry.