Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Craft Services • DCP (Digital Cinema Package) • Production Design

DP (Director of Photography)

Term from Film Production industry explained for recruiters

A Director of Photography (DP or DOP) is the person in charge of how a movie, TV show, or commercial looks visually. They work closely with the director to choose camera angles, lighting, and overall visual style. Think of them as the head camera person who leads the entire camera and lighting team. They're like the visual architect of a film, making decisions about everything from what cameras to use to how each scene should be lit to create the right mood. You might also hear them called a Cinematographer, which means the same thing.

Examples in Resumes

Served as DP on award-winning independent feature film

Led camera department as Director of Photography for national TV commercial campaign

Cinematographer for documentary series aired on major streaming platform

Typical job title: "Directors of Photography"

Also try searching for:

Cinematographer DOP Camera Department Head Director of Photography Director of Cinematography Chief Cinematographer

Where to Find Directors of Photography

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a challenging shoot you managed and how you solved the problems that came up?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show leadership, problem-solving abilities, and experience managing large crews while staying on schedule and budget. They should mention both technical and team management solutions.

Q: How do you approach working with different directors who have varying levels of technical knowledge?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate strong communication skills, ability to adapt their approach, and experience translating creative vision into technical execution while maintaining positive working relationships.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you plan the visual style for a project?

Expected Answer: Should mention creating shot lists, working with storyboards, discussing visual references with the director, and considering practical factors like location and budget.

Q: How do you handle shooting with a tight budget or limited equipment?

Expected Answer: Should show creativity in problem-solving, knowledge of equipment alternatives, and ability to maintain quality while working with constraints.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What experience do you have with different types of cameras and lighting equipment?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic technical knowledge of common camera systems and lighting equipment, even if experience is limited to smaller productions.

Q: How do you communicate with your camera team?

Expected Answer: Should show understanding of basic set protocols, ability to give clear instructions, and awareness of the importance of team coordination.