What’s the Difference Between Videography and Cinematography?
Understanding the difference between videography and cinematography can be confusing for beginners or for those who are not active in the film community. Especially consider both terms are sometimes mistakenly used interchangeably. However, there are unique differences between cinematography and videography that should be fully understood. We’re outlining the key differences between the two.
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Videography
Videography is the term used to describe a videographer. A videographer is someone who operates a video camera. This is also sometimes called a camera operator.
Videographers are sometimes also the producer or director of a film. In single production films, the videographer is the sole shooter, director and producer of the video footage.
Videographers are found working on documentary films as well as corporate productions and commercials. A videography team is generally made up of just one or two people. This group is ideal for low-budget films that are of low intensity and do not require extensive resources.
Videography projects are essentially more focused on capturing video and less focused on intense changes of scene and character. Most videography type gigs are much more basic in overall scope than those that require advanced cinematography.
Cinematography
Unlike videography, cinematography involves the use of extensive equipment and camera skills to produce a film or commercial that is cinematic.
The cinematography team consists of individuals responsible for lighting and sound, camera crews, and usually an active director and producer in addition to any other crew members involved. Cinematographers are responsible for the end visuals that are captured during production for a commercial film.
To be a cinematographer you must be prepared to work in a larger group with several other team members on the crew. Cinematographers are often referred to as the Director of Photography as they are responsible for the image capture of the production.
Cinematographers make decisions on lens choice, lighting composition, camera movement, color grading and filters that will result in the best portrayal of the final footage.
The Difference
The primary difference is that a videographer is an individual and a cinematographer is part of a group. Historically, the term videography meant working with a video production whereas cinematography meant working with a commercial or cinema production.
However, today, digital camera use kind of distorts that original thought and instead we define one or the other based on the actions performed and the number of teammates involved in the project.
For more information on the difference between videography and cinematography, call Beverly Boy Productions today at 888-462-7808! We’re always happy to help you understand more about the exciting film industry.