What is Electronic Cinematography?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Pallavi Priyadarshini PandaContent Writer
Electronic Cinematography or Digital Cinematography is a specialized field within filmmaking that focuses on capturing moving images using advanced digital cameras and technologies. This evolving discipline has become essential in film production, television, advertising, and OTT platforms due to its flexibility, cost-efficiency, and high-quality outputs.
Aspiring cinematographers can pursue Courses at UG, PG, and Diploma levels at prestigious Colleges like the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), MGR Government Film and Television Institute, Gulshan Kumar Film and Television Institute of India, and Biju Pattanaik Film and Television Institute. The course fees generally ranges between INR 2 Lakhs – INR 15 Lakh, depending on the institution and program duration.
Graduates can explore diverse roles such as Director of Photography (DOP), Camera Operator, Lighting Director, and Visual Storyteller. Entry-level salaries start at INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA, while the experienced professionals can earn up to INR 20 LPA or more in India.
Top recruiters for the Graduates of Electronic Cinematography or Digital Cinematography include Yash Raj Films, Netflix India, Red Chillies Entertainment, Sony Pictures, and leading advertising agencies like Ogilvy & Mather. This career combines technical expertise with artistic creativity, offering immense opportunities in India's booming media and entertainment industry.
Electronic Cinematography Course Details: Highlights
All motion images we see today are made possible because of the cinematographers working in the photography and film industries. Digital Cinematography is also helpful in speeding up the process of filmmaking. The film and television industries are rapidly expanding, creating numerous opportunities for cinematographers in India and abroad. Many young people are increasingly interested in this field.
You can go through the table below to know the key details about the Electronic Cinematography courses:
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Course Name | Electronic Cinematography or Digital Cinematography |
Course Levels | UG, PG and Diploma |
Course Duration | 6 Months to 3 years |
Entrance Exams | CUET |
Course Fees | INR 15,000 - 10 lakh |
Salary | INR 4 lakh to INR 6 lakh |
Job Profiles | Director of Photography, Cinematographer, Digital Imaging Technician, and Video Editor |
Top Recruiters | Production Houses, TV Industry, Photo Studios, Film and TV academies, etc. |
Top Colleges |
Film & Television Institute of India, Pune, Biju Pattanaik Film and Television Institute, Asian Academy of Film and Television, etc. |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Electronic Cinematography Course Relevant Information:
- Electronic Cinematography Course Eligibility Criteria
- Electronic Cinematography Admission 2025
- Electronic Cinematography Entrance Exams 2025
- Electronic Cinematography Syllabus
- Best Electronic Cinematography Colleges in India
- Popular Private Electronic Cinematography Colleges in India
- Online Electronic Cinematography Courses
- Electronic Cinematography Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- Electronic Cinematography FAQs
- Popular Electronic Cinematography UG Courses
Electronic Cinematography Course Eligibility Criteria
Candidates can pursue the certification, diploma, dual diploma and degree-level course in Electronic Cinematography. The time duration for the courses can be as short as 3 months and as long as 3 years. A foundation degree is not required to get enrolled in a certificate or diploma program but determination and commitment will always take a long way. However, a degree or certificate that demonstrates some experience in the field is usually a plus. A degree in subjects like Mass Communication & Media or Filmmaking and more is relevant to the field.
The following are the eligibility criteria that a candidate must meet in order to be admitted to Electronic Cinematography Courses:
Course |
Eligibility Criteria |
---|---|
UG Level | To pursue an Electronic Cinematography degree or diploma level candidates should complete Class XII or 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate percentage (usually 50% - 60%). |
PG Level | To pursue Electronic Cinematography at degree or PG diploma level candidates should complete their graduation with the minimum percentage stipulated by a particular university/ college in which they are seeking admission. |
Certificate-Level/Diploma | Electronic Cinematography Certificate courses are short-term courses that candidates can pursue on passing Class 10th. |
Note: The eligibility criteria are subject to change depending on the college or entrance exam.
Electronic Cinematography Admission 2025
Here is the general step-by-step guide for Admission to Electronic Cinematography Course:
- Step-1 Choose the program: First Review the curriculum, specializations, faculty, and facilities after that check academic qualifications, entrance exam requirements, and any additional criteria.
- Step-2 Prepare Required Documents: Prepare all the documents beforehand so that no last-minute issues occur. The documents include academic mark sheets, certificates, University Entrance Test Scores and letters of recommendation.
- Step-3 Fill out the Application Form and Pay the Fees: Complete the application form provided by the institution. This may be done online or on paper and pay any required application fees.
- Step-4 Entrance Exams (if applicable): Register and Prepare for the entrance exam. Take the exam then wait for the result.
- Step-5 Submit Application: Submit all required documents along with the completed application form. Always ensure that all documents have been received and verify the status of your application.
- Step-6 Await Admission Decision: Monitor the admission portal or your email for updates on the results. If accepted, an official offer letter will be provided by the university.
- Step-7 Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your intention to enroll in the program and Pay the required enrollment or tuition Fees.
- Step-8 Prepare for the Start of Classes: Follow instructions for course registration and orientation. If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus housing and attend any orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with the campus and program.
- Step-9 Start Classes: Attend classes and start your academic journey.
Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program as they can vary. Some programs may also have additional steps or unique requirements.
Electronic Cinematography Entrance Exams 2025
Generally, a candidate can directly apply for Electronic Cinematography Course because many Colleges accept admission on merit. But, some colleges conduct an entrance examination to give admissions in the Electronic Cinematography or Courses related to electronic cinematography. Some of the popular entrance exams are as follows:
Electronic Cinematography Course Entrance Exams |
Electronic Cinematography Course Exam Dates |
Electronic Cinematography Exam Schedule |
---|---|---|
CUET 2025 |
May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative) |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.
6 May ' 25 | CUET PG 2025 Result |
6 May ' 25 | CUET PG Final Answer Key 2025 |
Mar '26 | PUBDET 2026 Applications TENTATIVE |
10 Sep ' 25 | PUBDET 2025 2nd Round Seat Allotment |
Sep '25 | MAH AAC CET 2025 Cut-off Date for all type of adm... TENTATIVE |
Sep '25 | MAH AAC CET 2025 Last date of uploading the data TENTATIVE |
Mar '26 | CUET 2026 Application Process TENTATIVE |
May '26 - Jun '26 | CUET 2026 Exam TENTATIVE |
Electronic Cinematography Syllabus
Subjects that candidates study in a course related to Cinematography depend on the type of course (UG/ PG/Diploma/ Certificate) they pursue. However, the curriculum of any course that a candidate pursues covers both theories as well as practical experience in the form of internships, study tours, seminars, etc. Given below is the course curriculum of some popular courses in Electronic Cinematography:
Digital Cinematography using RED | ||
---|---|---|
Introduction to Cinematography | Hands-on experience in handling the camera with a tripod, hand held etc | Principles of Cinematography – Theory |
Digital lessons & Lessons on exposure | Intro to the light meter, Practical exposure evaluation | Lighting interiors and exteriors with sets |
Aesthetic cinematography on lighting | Making videos and master class | Post production and DI |
VFX & Special shots like time lapse and others | Conceptual Lighting | -- |
BSc in Cinema (Specialisation In Cinematography) | ||
---|---|---|
Introduction to core forms and concepts of films | Understanding primitive, early cinema and enhancing the basic knowledge of films | Introduction to still photography and design technology |
Digital Imaging Techniques | Introduction to Adobe Photoshop | Directing and producing individually |
Developing advanced acting and directing skills | Exploring the history of cinema after WW I and WW 2 | Importance of lightning and cinematography in storytelling |
Understanding the art of film and video editing | Camera Lens & Optics Camera Lens & Optics | Digital Video Techniques |
Camera movements | Aesthetics of make-up, costumes and jewellery | Visual Storytelling |
Developing the sense and ability of the craft | The Third Dimension | Understanding the process of cutting up a film and editing it |
Introduction to Photography | Lighting and Visual Communication | Camera |
Introduction to Camera & Lighting technique | Terminology in Cinematography | The Shot and How to Frame It |
Camera Angles | Introduction to Cinematography | Concept of Exposure |
Digital Cinematography Syllabus
The subjects taught in Electronic Cinematography vary according to the level of the course. The topics mentioned below are broadly covered in almost all the subjects:
Electronic Cinematography Syllabus | |||
---|---|---|---|
Cameras for Motion Picture | Transfer of Film to Video | Tele-Cine | Different Types of Film Cameras |
Cinema Projection | Digital Film Production | Shooting through Mirrors | Underwater Shooting |
Rigging the Camera | Demo Reel | Introduction to 3D | Introduction to CGI |
Cinematography Analysis | Color Theory | Film History and Theory | Film and Digital Laboratory |
Optics & Digital Art Media | Workshops on Cinematography | Batteries for Motion Picture Camera | Various Sections of the Motion Picture Lab |
Colour Negative and Intermediate Film | Film and Digital Camera Techniques | Digital Postproduction | Exponometry |
Color Film Printing | Colour Correction | Sensitometry | Films in Motion Pictures |
Screening of Films | Aerial Photography | Various Camera Tests | Different Types of Shooting Formats |
Web Designing | Visual Effects | Shooting in Snow | Audio and Video Editing |
Electronic Cinematography Course Relevant Information:
Best Electronic Cinematography Colleges in India
In India, numerous prestigious colleges offer courses in Cinematography or Electronic Cinematography. There are many colleges that offer different level courses in Electronic Cinematography and some of the Colleges also offer Cinematography Course which covers Electronic Cinematography.
Best Government Colleges for Electronic Cinematography
Candidates can check the names of the Government Colleges that offer Electronic Cinematography\ Cinematography in the table given below:
Electronic Cinematography Government Colleges | Fees |
---|---|
Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU) | INR 1.5 Lakh |
MGR Government Film and Television Institute | INR 74,980 |
Gujarat University | NA |
Government Film and TV Technical Institute, Bangalore | INR 12,810 |
Biju Pattanaik Film and Television Institute | NA |
Kushabhau Thakre Patrakarita Avam Jansanchar Vishwavidyalaya | INR 16,520 |
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute | NA |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.
Best Private Colleges for Electronic Cinematography
Following is the list of Electronic Cinematography Private Colleges:
Electronic Cinematography Private Colleges | Fees |
---|---|
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) | INR 48,310 - 1.45 Lakh |
Asian Academy of Film And Television | INR 4.8 Lakh |
Bennett University | INR 9.75 Lakh |
Gulshan Kumar Film and Television Institute of India | NA |
Film And Television Institute of Hyderabad (FTIH) | INR 50,000 - 2 Lakh |
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's Film, TV and Animation Studies | INR 64,000 |
MIT School of Film and Theatre, MIT-ADT University | INR 10.04 Lakh - 13 Lakh |
Amity School of Film and Drama | INR 2.88 Lakh - 4.77 Lakh |
JECRC University | INR 35,000 |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.
Popular Private Electronic Cinematography Colleges in India
Online Electronic Cinematography Courses
Online Electronic Cinematography Courses are rapidly gaining popularity due to their convenience and flexibility. In these programs, lectures are delivered through video conferencing, while notes, examinations, and evaluations are managed via a Learning Management System (LMS). This format enables students to enroll in an online Digital Cinematography even if they are living in a different city, as there are no on-site classes required. It also allows students to study and progress at their own pace, facilitating further career growth.
Below are some colleges that provide Electronic Cinematography Courses online:
Online Electronic Cinematography Courses | Course Provider | Fees |
---|---|---|
Digital Cinematography | L. V. Prasad Film and TV Academy, Thiruvananthapuram | 35,000 |
Photography/ Cinematography | MSE Institute of Film and Media | 40,000 |
Advanced Cinematography Course | Brilliko Institute of Multimedia | NA |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.
Electronic Cinematography Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
Short films, web series, TV shows, documentaries, and other forms of media have also provided opportunities for aspiring cinematographers. A cinematographer can also work as a Cameraman, Videographer, or as a Freelancer. Some of the main job profiles are given below:
Job Profile | Job Description | Salary |
---|---|---|
Director of Photography | The director of photography collaborates with the film director and is in charge of the visual aspects of the production. Their main responsibilities include deciding on a film's visual style, lighting and composition, and camera angles. | INR 2 - 10.5 LPA |
Video Editor | As a film/ video editor, you will be required to manage raw camera footage, sound effects, graphics, and more to create a final film or video. It is a very crucial job in the post-production process, and the quality and timeliness of the final output will be dependent on your abilities and work. | INR 1 - 6.6 LPA |
Cinematographer | The camera and lighting team are overseen by a cinematographer, also known as a Director of Photography. They're the ones in charge of the look, color, lighting, and framing of each and every shot in a movie. | INR 1.1 - 10 LPA |
Digital Imaging Technician | A digital imaging technician manages digital image acquisition on set which includes organizing data workflows, backing up footage, creating look-up tables and calibrating monitors for accurate color representation. | INR 1.5 - 6 LPA |
Camera Operator | Their job is to Operates cameras, assists the DP, sets up shots, and manages camera equipment. | INR 1.2 - 7.3 LPA |
Note: The average salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Top Recruiters in Electronic Cinematography
They often work in industries like film, television, advertising and digital media production. The graduates of this course can find work in production houses or they can also start their own business. Here are some of the top recruiters for electronic cinematographers:
Electronic Cinematography Top Recruiters | ||
---|---|---|
Red Chillies Entertainment |
Netflix India |
Reliance Big Entertainment |
Star India | Balaji Motion Pictures | UTV movies, Balaji Telefilms Ltd |
Yashraj Productions | Disney+ Hotstar | Balaji Telefilms |
Ramoji Film City Studios | Dharma Productions | Eros International Media Ltd |
Recommended Links for Electronic Cinematography Courses:
Electronic Cinematography FAQs
Here are a few important Questions related to Electronic Cinematography:
Popular Electronic Cinematography UG Courses
UG Courses
- BVA
1 College
News & Updates
Student Forum
Taking an Exam? Selecting a College?
Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else
On Shiksha, get access to
- 65k Colleges
- 1k Exams
- 687k Reviews
- 1800k Answers
- Ballet
- Ballroom Dance
- Bharatnatyam
- Hip Hop
- Jazz
- Kathak
- Kuchipudi
- Modern Dance
- Nattuvangam
- Odissi
- Salsa
- Editing
- Calligraphy
- Computer Graphics
- Illustration
- Printmaking
- Typography
- Accordian
- Cello
- Flute
- Folk Dance
- Guitar
- Harmonium
- Hindustani Classical Vocals
- Khayal
- Mridangam
- Percussions
- Piano
- Ravindra Sangeet Shastra
- Sarod
- Saxophone
- Sitar
- Synthesizer
- Tabla
- Thumri-Kheyal
- Veena
- Violin
- Western Contemporary
- Theatre Techniques & Design