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Cinematographer / Director of Photography Agreement

For cinematographer / director of photography work on a production, with agreed responsibilities, dates, and pay.

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About this contract

For cinematographer / director of photography work on a production, with agreed responsibilities, dates, and pay. A cinematographer develops the photographic approach with the director, but final approval is a separate question. The engagement should identify who approves creative changes and spending rather than infer those powers from the job title.

Key points covered in this contract

  • Photography: the photographic approach, prep days, and director approval process.
  • Camera and lighting: camera and lighting requirements within the approved budget.
  • Changes and approval: changes to cinematographer / director of photography duties, additional dates, and who can approve them.
  • Payment and cancellation: payment timing and cancellation terms for this engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does hiring a cinematographer give them final creative approval?
Not automatically. A cinematographer develops the photographic approach with the director, but final creative approval is a separate authority. A cinematographer agreement should distinguish responsibility for the images from approval of the final film or additional spending.
What is a film crew kit fee?
A kit fee pays a crew member for bringing and using their own equipment, separately from their labor. It might cover a sound kit or specialist tools. Paying that fee does not mean the production owns the equipment, and insurance or damage responsibility is a separate issue.
Does a day rate include unlimited hours or extra shoot dates?
No. A day rate covers an agreed workday, not unlimited availability. Additional hours or dates may require extra pay, and mandatory overtime or rest rules can still apply. A flat fee does not automatically remove those protections.
Does a film crew contract replace required union paperwork?
No. Applicable law and binding collective bargaining terms still apply. A private contract cannot determine worker classification contrary to law or replace required union forms.