why become cinematographer and not director?

Hello Dhruv,

This is rather an interesting question and its answer is quite simple, that it depends precisely on your interest.

The cinematographer , who is also the director of photography, is the head of the camera and lighting crew. He works side by side with camera operators, camera assistants, gaffers, and the light and grip crew. He manipulates the lighting, camera settings, etc. to achieve a certain cinematic look. This doesn't mean that his job is "only technical" instead they use their technical talents to add aesthetic value to the story. If a film looks beautiful then it's the cinematographer you have to praise.

While a director 's main task is to interpret the script and transform it into a movie. The director is in charge of acting, set design, etc. If the director doesn't like something regarding the light or camera operating, then he or she will address the cinematographer and explain the changes he would like to see. The Director works with talented people to give his vision a life. He works with the screenwriter for the desirable screenplay, with the cinematographer for the desired look, with the musician for the desirable music, etc. S/he pushes the cast and crew to achieve a film that's in her mind. Basically, if you like a movie it's the director that needs to be praised.

Although the cinematographer receives orders from the director, his paycheck can actually be higher in some situations. This is might not be true for motion pictures but for commercials in some locations.

Advantages of being a cinematographer-

• One of the biggest perks about becoming a cinematographer is the large demand that the future holds, thus ensuring that cinematographers find work when they look for it.
• Cinematography is not just limited to making of fictional big-budget movies. Science and technology are wide areas where the use of cinematography plays a pivotal role. Also, documentaries and non-fictional series are becoming famous off late and there is huge scope in that area. So, along with great demand, you have a great variety of projects too.

Therefore if you have a knack for photography, camera, and visual arts, get into this field!

I hope this helps. If you have any other doubt or query, feel free to ask.

All the best!