# cinematographer

/ˌsɪnɪməˈtɑɡɹəfɝ/ (US) · /sˌɪnɪmɐtˈɒɡɹəfɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cinematographer
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a person who is an expert in the art of making movies. This word is an older way to say 'cinematographer' or 'director of photography'.

For teachers: a person who is an expert in the art of cinematography. Often used in historical or formal contexts to describe the director of photography.

## Examples

- The cinematographer chose the perfect lighting for the scene.
- The film's success was largely due to the cinematographer's ability to capture the beauty of the landscape.
- While the director provides the vision, the cinematographer is responsible for translating that vision into a visual language through the use of light, color, and camera movement.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.