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What responsibilities does a cinematographer have on a feature film?

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Director Steven Spielberg and camera operator Michael Chapman film next to a large mechanical shark on the set of the 1975 movie Jaws. — motion-picture technology Director Steven Spielberg holding the movie camera, assisted by camera operator Michael Chapman, during the filming of *Jaws* (1975).

On a feature film, the cinematographer—also known as the director of photography or lighting cameraperson—is responsible for translating the director’s vision into visual images. Their primary role is to create the film's overall atmosphere and look through a combination of technical and artistic choices.12

Key responsibilities include:

Visual Composition and Lighting: The cinematographer manages the general composition of scenes and is primarily responsible for the lighting of sets or locations, which is considered the core of their art.13
Technical Execution: They select cameras, lenses, filters, and film stock, while determining camera angles, movements, and precise framing.12
Supervision: They lead a complex crew, including the camera operator, focus-puller, clapper-loader, and "grips," as well as the gaffer (chief electrician) who executes lighting plans.1
Post-Production and Effects: They oversee the integration of special effects and often work closely with the processing laboratory to ensure the final image quality matches the intended style.12

Ultimately, the cinematographer’s work is highly collaborative, requiring coordination with the producer, designer, sound technicians, and actors to achieve a cohesive visual style.1