Roles in cinematography
Cinematographer or "DP" Director of Photography: Head of the Camera Department, also oversees lighting team
1st Assistant Cameraman: Assembles the camera and monitors shots to make sure subjects are in focus.
Loaders or DIT: team member who focus on recorded media. Loaders will thread film into cameras. More commonly since film is used less often, a Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) manages camera cards or digital files, and may also monitor image quality.
Steadicam or crane operator: operate a camera for specialized shots in tight places or overhead.
Production assistant: an apprentice learning camera skills and assisting on set
DP Responsibilities
A director of photography becomes the eyes of the production, thinking through technical and artistic details related to capturing footage. For some productions, they operate cameras and are known as cinematographers. DPs are critical team members who are usually involved in pre-production, shooting and editing and are skilled in managing others to get the perfect shot.
Part of a team that ensures the director's vision comes to life through sharp focus, lighting, framing and more.