What is the role of a cinematographer?

The role of a cinematographer, also known as the director of photography, is fundamentally centered on the visual storytelling of a film. This includes overseeing all aspects related to the camera, lighting, and shot composition. The cinematographer collaborates closely with the director to craft the visual language of the film, ensuring that each frame effectively conveys the intended mood, atmosphere, and narrative.

By managing lighting, the cinematographer can create different visual aesthetics, enhancing the emotional impact of scenes. The choice of camera angles, movements, and lens selections also fall under their purview, allowing them to shape the audience's perception and engagement with the story. This collaborative effort aims to achieve a coherent visual style that supports the film's themes and characters, which is why this answer accurately represents the essential duties of a cinematographer in the filmmaking process.