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

Updated on Mar 20, 2025 12:55 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtContent Writer

Cinematography is the Art and Science of crafting visual narratives for motion pictures and videos, which demands a keen eye for detail and storytelling. Cinematographers shape the visual essence of a film, employing techniques such as lighting, camera angles, and composition to convey stories and elicit emotions.

Cinematography courses are offered at various levels including UG, PG, Diploma and Certification. Some popular Cinematography courses in India include a Bachelor's in Cinematography, a BA in Film, TV and New Media Production, a PG Diploma in Cinematography, a BVA in Cinematography, a BSc in Cinematography, and so on.

Admission to Cameraman courses is based on the merit system, hence, the candidates are not required to prepare for any entrance exam. However, they must fulfil the eligibility criteria decided by the institutes based on the course level and type. Meanwhile, the basic eligibility requirements include passing Class 12 from any stream with a minimum of 50% aggregate from a recognized board.

Some popular colleges offering Cinematography courses in India include Chaudhary Charan Singh University, University of Mumbai, Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), MGR Government Film and Television Institute, AAFT, Gujarat University, etc. The average course fee ranges from INR 12,000 to INR 13 Lakh.

Cinematography students can opt for job profiles like Assistant Director, Assistant Manager, Assistant Producer, Film Editor, Cameraman, Cinematographer, or start their own work as freelancers. They can work for various industries including Entertainment, Event Management, Digital Marketing, etc. The average salary of a Cinematographer is INR 5.6 LPA in India.

Interested candidates can continue reading the article for more details on Cinematography courses.

Links relevant to Cinematography courses:

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Cinematography Course Details: Highlights

All motion images we see today are made possible by cinematographers working in the photography and film industries. The film and television industries are rapidly expanding, and with it, the opportunities for cinematographers in India and overseas. Many youngsters are inclined towards this course.

You can go through the table below to learn the key details about the Cinematography courses:

Particulars Course Details
Cinematography Course Level UG, PG, Diploma and Certification.
Cinematography Course Duration

UG: 3 - 4 Years

PG: 2 Years

Diploma/Certification: 3 Months - 1 Year

Cinematography Course Admission Criteria Merit-Based
Cinematography Course Eligibility Criteria

UG: Class 12 from a recognized board.

PG: BA/BSc/BVA from a recognized university.

Cinematography Top Colleges Chaudhary Charan Singh University, University of Mumbai, Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), MGR Government Film and Television Institute, AAFT, Gujarat University, etc.
Cinematography Course Fees INR 12,000 - INR 13 Lakh
Cinematography Job Profiles Assistant Director, Assistant Manager, Assistant Producer, Film Editor, Cameraman, Cinematographer, etc.
Cinematography Top Recruiters Red Chillies Entertainment, Reliance Entertainment, Eros International, EndemolShine India, Star Studios, The Wedding Filmer, WedMeGood, etc.
Cinematography Average Salary INR 5.6 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from various external sources and may vary.

Cinematography Course Relevant Information:

Top 15 Film Schools in India 2025: Courses Offered, Fees, Scope

Q:   Is the role of a Director similar to that of a Cinematographer?
A:

No. While the director is in charge of the camera, the cinematographer is in charge of making it happen. Exposure — the technique of altering camera settings to achieve the intended look of an image — is one of the most important issues for cinematographers.

Director is primarily responsible for the overall creative vision of the film. They work closely with the screenwriter to interpret the script, develop the story, and determine the artistic direction of the film. Cinematographers are responsible for the visual execution of the director's vision. They collaborate with the director to achieve the desired look and feel of the film.

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Q:   Is there any difference between a Creative Director and an Art Director?
A:

In advertising, art directors work with copywriters on individual projects, often but not always, several at once. The Creative Director is responsible for the whole creative departments' output and must decide which creative work he/she is shown to accept or reject.

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Q:   What is a Cinematography course?
A:

Cinematography course entails the skill of capturing and visually telling a story in a film or television production.  Some of the most common undergraduate cinematography courses are BA Cinematography, BFA Cinematography, and BSc Cinematography. Some of the specialised courses available at the master's level include a Post Graduate Diploma in Television Production and a PG Diploma in Digital Cinematography. Cinematography courses can range in price from INR 5,000 to INR 3 lakh.

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Q:   Why study Cinematography?
A:

The art of filmmaking is called  cinematography. It conveys emotions, mood, and storytelling components using features like camera angles, framing, lighting, composition, movement, and colour. It enables filmmakers to express concepts and thoughts to viewers in a visual and emotional way.

By bringing the narrative to life, cinematography improves the storytelling process. It facilitates atmosphere development, tension building, character development, and emotional evocation. Audiences are better able to relate to characters and the tale by using visual storytelling.

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Q:   Is photography a good career choice?
A:

It differs from one individual to the other, depending on one's choices and interests. It is true, though, that the more experience you have with this topic, the better it is. The field is both fascinating and exciting to work in. It is all about your perspective towards filmmaking and the process involved in it. For this role, one must have experience esp. in the camera department. With this; technical skills and in-depth knowledge of lighting and filmmaking is also important. The ability to make creative decisions and organisational skills are a must too. If you have all of this, then this is the field for you.

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Table of content
  • Cinematography Eligibility Criteria
  • Types of Cinematography Courses
  • Cinematography Course Syllabus
  • Best Cinematography Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Cinematography Colleges in India
  • Cinematography Job Profiles & Top Recruiters
  • FAQs on Cinematography
  • Popular Cinematography UG Courses
  • Popular Cinematography PG Courses
  • Popular Exams
View More

Cinematography Eligibility Criteria

Cinematography programs are offered at various levels and types, hence, the eligibility criteria for the course may vary depending on the course type and the college providing the program. However, the table below contains some basic eligibility requirements required to be fulfilled by every candidate:

Course Level Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate/UG Diploma/Certification
  • Class 12 from any stream (Arts, Science, or Commerce),
  • With a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognized board.
Postgraduate/PG Diploma
After 10th Diploma
  • Class 10 or equivalent from a recognized institute.

Note: The information is sourced from various external sites and may vary.

Suggested Links for Cameraman courses:

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Cinematography Course Admission Process 2025

Admission to Cinematography courses in India is entirely based on the merit system, hence, there's no need to prepare or sit in an entrance exam. Here's the step-by-step guide for candidates to follow and complete their Cinematography Course Admission Process 2025 seamlessly:

STEP 1: ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The first step in the process is to check the eligibility criteria specified by the college and ensure fulfilment. The eligibility criteria of every college may differ.

STEP 2: REGISTRATION

The second step is to register on the official website of the college. This requires candidates to make their profile and generate a username and password for future logins.

STEP 3: APPLICATION FORM

The next step is to fill out the application form. This involves filling out the necessary details, uploading documents, and paying the application fee. Before submitting the application, review it thoroughly to avoid any mistakes. 

STEP 4: CONFIRMATION MAIL

Now, the candidates must wait for the college to verify their application and send them a confirmation mail. This may take a few days or weeks, depending on the institute.

STEP 5: COUNSELLING SESSION

Once selected for admission, the candidates must attend the counselling session either online or offline. This is the final step in the Cinematography admission process, involving the payment of Cinematography course fees, filling out the forms, providing documents, etc.

Recommended Links for Cameraman courses:

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Q:   What is the course duration for cinematography?
A:

In India, the duration of the Cinematography course can vary between 3 months to 3 years, depending on the level of the programme.

  • Courses leading to a Diploma or certificate: Filmmaking Diploma or certificate programmes normally last between six months and a year. These courses are frequently made to offer fundamental instruction in filmmaking and cinematography.
  • Programmes for Undergraduates: Bachelor's degree programmes in cinematography or film production typically last 3–4 years. These courses cover all facets of filmmaking and provide a thorough education in cinematography.
  • Postgraduate Studies: The length of master's degree programmes in cinematography or similar subjects varies. Some programmes last a year, while others might last two years or longer. Postgraduate courses frequently offer specialised training and in-depth understanding in cinematography.
  • Short-term Workshops and Courses: Some organisations and film schools provide brief workshops and courses, which can range from a few weeks to a few months.
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Q:   What is the eligibility criteria for cinematography course?
A:

The minimum requirement for admission into a cinematography programme is Class 12. After Class 12, one may go for various certificate and Diploma courses in cinematography to acquire knowledge in the field. Film and Television Institute of India (FTII)-Pune; Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute-Kolkata, Zee Institute of Media Arts and Whistling Woods International in Mumbai are some of the prominent institutes that conduct courses in cinematography.

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Types of Cinematography Courses

Candidates interested in having a career in the field of Cinematography can pursue the program at certification, diploma, dual diploma and degree level. The time duration for the courses can be as short as 3 months and as long as 3 years. Popular courses under the Cinematography Course are given below:

Diploma in Cinematography
PG Diploma in Film, Television & Digital Video Production PG Diploma in Cinematography
Diploma in Video Camera & Lighting NCVTE Master in Diploma in Cinematography
Cinematography Dual or Integrated Degree
BSc in Cinema + Diploma in Cinematography BSc in Cinema + Diploma in Direction
B.Sc in Cinema + Diploma in Post Production MSc in Cinema + PG Diploma in Acting
MSc in Cinema + PG Diploma in Direction MSc in Cinema + PG Diploma in Post Production
Cinematography Certificate Courses
PG Certificate Course in Electronic Cinematography Certificate in Cinematography
Digital Cinematography using RED -

Note: The information is sourced from various external sources and may vary.

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Q:   What are the various courses offered for Cinematography?
A:

Courses range from certificate programs to diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, and specialised workshops. You can choose to focus on film, television, digital filmmaking, or specific areas like documentary cinematography.

Q:   What is the duration of PG level course in Cinematography?
A:

The post graduate degree and Diploma courses are of 2-years duration.

Cinematography Course Syllabus

The Cinematography syllabus and course structure differ depending on its level, type, and the college offering the program. However, for candidates' reference, here's the Cinematography syllabus for a few programs.

BA in Cinematography Syllabus

BA in Cinematography is a 3-year-long UG program. Here are some common subjects covered in the course:

BA in Cinematography Subjects Year I
Creative Writing Photography
English Communication Production Equipment
Script and Screenplay Development Communication
BA in Cinematography Subjects Year II
Cinematography Film Studies
Media Research Basics Advanced Cinematography
Production Designing Production Process and Techniques
BA in Cinematography Subjects Year III
Directing Actors Production Management
Television Programming Marketing, Distribution & Exhibition
Sound Dubbing and EFX -

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

Cinematography Course Relevant Information:

Cinematography Syllabus

Q:   Which are the major topics covered in the Cinematography course curriculum?
A:

The major topics that are common at all the levels are listed below:

·       Film screening, shooting, appreciation

·       About Cameras, types, angle and it's functioning

·       Lighting, its basics and techniques

·       Introduction to lenses

Q:   What are the subjects that one needs to learn in Cinematography course?
A:

Cinematography can be learned as part of a degree program or taken through independent study. Courses in cinematography are available at film schools, 4-year Universities and community colleges, as well as through distance learning. Students of Cinematography at both the Bachelor's and Master's degree levels must take a wide variety of Filmmaking courses. In addition to Lighting and Cinematography courses, Film History, Film Editing and other related subjects are often offered as electives. The following are some of the topics included in a Cinematography degree program:

  1. Introductory Filmmaking.
  2. 2. Film Lighting.
  3. 3. Basics of Cinematography.
  4. 4. Digital Cinematography.

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Q:   Which are the main subjects covered in a Cinematography course?
A:

Here are some basic topics covered in a Cinematography course:

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

Colour 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

Colour 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

Note: The information is sourced from various external sources and may vary.

Best Cinematography Colleges in India

There are more than 70 Colleges offering Cinematography courses in India. These colleges offer Cinematography courses at various levels and types, along with other specializations such as Film & TV Production, Photography, etc. Candidates can see the table below for top government and private college options for Cinematography in India.

Best Government Colleges for Cinematography

Here are some of the top government colleges in India offering Cinematography courses. See the table below for Cinematography Course Fees and other details:

Best Government Colleges Cinematography Course Fees
CCSU Meerut University INR 1.5 Lakh
MGR Government Film and Television Institute INR 74,980
Government Film and TV Technical Institute, Bangalore INR 12,810
Kushabhau Thakre Patrakarita Avam Jansanchar Vishwavidyalaya INR 16,510

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

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Best Private Colleges for Cinematography

Here are some of the top private colleges in India offering Cinematography courses. See the table below for Cinematography Course Fees and other details:

Best Private Colleges Cinematography Course Fees
AAFT INR 4.8 Lakh
ASFD Amity INR 2.88 - 4.77 Lakh
Atharva Institute of Film and Television INR 3.75 Lakh
Bennett University INR 10.11 Lakh
BVBFTS INR 64,000
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) INR 48,310 - INR 1.45 Lakh
FTIH - Film And Television Institute of Hyderabad INR 50,000 - INR 2 Lakh
JECRC University INR 35,000
KIIT School of Film and Media INR 5.76 Lakh
MIT School of Film and Theatre INR 11.04 - 13.05 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

1 Course
1.5 L
3.3 LPA

#18 The Week

2 Courses
1.45 L
1 Course
74.98 K
4.0
2 Courses
6.12 L - 8.12 L
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Q:   Which are the popular colleges offering Cinematographer courses?
A:

Some of the popular Screenplay Writing colleges in India are – Xavier Institute of Communications,  BVBFTS,  Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology  (KIIT),  Asian Academy of Film & Television, and many more.

Q:   Which are the best colleges and course for Photography and Cinematographer?
A:

Hi, These are the top colleges and courses for photography and cinematography courses in india Courses for cinematography , DSLR Filmmaking From Beginner to PRO, Cinematic Lighting, Introduction to Digital Cinematography, Film Cinematographer Fundamentals, Learn Film Making From the Basics Cinematography, Complete Guide Create Your Custom at Home Filming Setup Cinematographer's Preparation Course, Courses of photography is bachelors and masters in following, Portrait photography, Wedding photography, Commercial photography, Travel photography, Event photography, Fashion photography , Sports photography, and Wildlife photography. 

Top institutes

  • Osmania University
  • National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad.
  • Sir JJ Institute of Applied Arts.
  • National Institute of Photography.
  • The Indian Institute of Digital Art and Animation.
  • Creative Hut Institute of Photography.
  • Pixel Institute of Photography.

Popular Private Cinematography Colleges in India

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Cinematography Applications open. Apply Now

2.88 L - 4.77 L
3.6 - 6 LPA

Cinematography Applications open till Jul 12, 2025. Apply Now

1 Course
2 Courses
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Cinematography Job Profiles & Top Recruiters

Unlike in the past, when the film industry was the only option, cinematographers can now work in TV and web series, film development units, studios, and video businesses. Not only in India but also worldwide, they have a plethora of work opportunities. Short films, web series, TV shows, documentaries, and other forms of media have also provided opportunities for aspiring cinematographers.

Read More: Cinematography Career

Cinematography Job Profiles 

Some of the main job profiles that can be pursued after Cinematography graduates are stated below:

Job Profiles Job Description Average Salary
Assistant Cinematographer Assists senior cinematographers in setting up equipment, operating cameras, and learning lighting techniques. INR 3.3 LPA
Cinematographer Oversees the visual aspects of a film or project, including camera work, lighting, shot composition, and managing a camera crew. INR 5.2 LPA
Camera Operator Operates cameras, assists the DP, sets up shots, and manages camera equipment. INR 3.5 LPA
Cinematography Assistant/Intern Assists the camera team, handled equipment, and learned the basics of cinematography. INR 3.3 LPA
Freelance Cinematographer Works on a project basis, often in various roles, and negotiates fees independently. INR 4.4 LPA
Cinematography Lecturer/Teacher Educates and trains aspiring cinematographers at film schools or institutes. INR 4.8 LPA
Documentary Cinematographer Specializes in shooting documentaries, often in remote or challenging locations. INR 3.1 LPA

Note- The above salary has been taken from external sources, and hence may vary.

Cinematography Top Recruiters

Candidates can work with various production houses like Yashraj Films, Dharma Productions, Balaji Telefilms, India Today, Doordarshan, etc. Students after completing a course in Cinematography can find work in the following fields:

Cinematography Top Recruiters

Entertainment Industry

Films

Tv Academies

News Channels

Production Houses

Photo Studios

Streaming Platforms like Netflix Broadcasters NFDC

Note: The information is sourced from various external sources and may vary.

Read More about Cinematography:

Film Making Career Scope

Job Opportunities after Film Making Courses in India: Eligibility, Skills, Top Colleges

Q:   How is cinematography field as a career option?
A:

It differs from one individual to the other, depending on one's choices and interests. It is true, though, that the more experience you have with this topic, the better it is. The field is both fascinating and exciting to work in. It is all about your perspective towards filmmaking and the process involved in it. For this role, one must have experience esp. in the camera department. With this; technical skills and in-depth knowledge of lighting and filmmaking is also important. The ability to make creative decisions and organisational skills are a must too. If you have all of this, then this is the field for you.

Q:   What are the different career options available for Cinematographers?
A:

Following are some of the career options Cinmeatographers can opt:

·       Feature films,  documentaries,  web series,  and television shows

·       Advertising and corporate films

·       Music videos and event videography

·       Independent filmmaking and freelancing

Q:   What are the average salaries for Cinematographers in India?
A:

Salaries vary depending on experience, skill level, and the type of project. Entry-level roles might start around INR 30,000 - INR 40,000 per month, while experienced professionals can earn several Lacs for major projects.

Q:   How can I make my career in cinematography?
A:

The minimum requirement for admission into a cinematography programme is plus two. After plus two one may go for various certificate and diploma courses in cinematography to acquire knowledge in the field. Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune; Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kolkata, Zee Institute of Media Arts and Whistling Woods International in Mumbai are some of the prominent institutes that conduct courses in Cinematography. Course curriculum includes live shooting with digital cameras, exposure to advanced digital shooting technology and computer software's for creating visual effects for individual shots, exposure to motion graphics, experience with live studios and so on.

Personal attributes: More than the educational qualification, Cinematographers need an artistic vision good eyesight. A cinematographer must have the ability to work independently, as well as have the interpersonal skills required to work well under a director and over camera technicians. They have to be detail oriented, hardworking and passionate towards work. He should have a high sense of imagination and foresightedness. Good technical ability and knowledge of cameras and lenses is also essential for a Cinematographer to be successful. Expertise in computer animation and digital editing may also prove to be of great help. All the best.

FAQs on Cinematography

Refer to the section below for questions on Cinematography Course:

Q:   What is the average fees for cinematography in India?
A:

Hi!

The average fee for cinematography in India can range from INR 35,000 to INR 1,25,000.

Q:   How can I learn more about Cinematography?
A:

Students can consider following options in order to learn more about Cinematography:

·       Film festivals, workshops, and industry events

·       Online communities and forums for discussion

·       Filmmaking books, magazines, and websites

·       Watch movies and analyze the visual storytelling

Q:   Why should I pursue a Cinematography course?
A:

Cinematographers are also known as directors of photography because, without them, there would be no motion pictures, documentaries, or films. The entertainment sector has grown so rapidly that it has created new chances for job profiles associated with the industry, including cinematographers. 

Students who have completed this course are involving themselves in private and independent projects, while others are getting jobs as camera assistants, video editors, and cinematographers in existing production houses, studios, and projects.

Q:   Who can pursue a Cinematography course?
A:

Every day, technology expands its horizons. When it comes to cameras and filming, new ways and tactics are constantly being discussed. New techniques for directing and capturing moving images have been included in the course for discussion.

In research, new cameras and methods of using them have also been introduced. New research on lighting, optics, colour correction, printing, and digital media is also being considered.

Popular Cinematography UG Courses

Following are the most popular Cinematography UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Cinematography PG Courses

Following are the most popular Cinematography PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Cinematography. Students interested in pursuing a career on Cinematography, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

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Answered a month ago

Though both are related to visual art, their subject and focused areas differ. Photography focuses on still images, while Cinematography is focused on moving film. The purpose of a photograph is to document an expression or action, while cinematography creates a story and experiences.

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Gunjan Dhawan

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