Job Description: Junior Cinematographer

About the Role

We are looking for a Junior Cinematographer who is passionate about visual storytelling and eager to hone their craft in a dynamic, fast-paced production environment. This role is perfect for someone with a strong technical foundation, an eye for detail, and the enthusiasm to grow under the mentorship of seasoned cinematographers and directors.

You will play an active role in supporting high-end productions, ensuring the lighting, camera work, and technical execution meet the premium standards expected of NxtWave and NIAT content. You'll gain hands-on experience across masterclasses, brand films, interviews, and product explainers, contributing to content that drives real impact.

Key Responsibilities

Camera Operation & Support

Assist the Cinematographer in camera setup, lens selection, and rigging, ensuring all equipment is ready and optimized for each shoot.
Operate secondary cameras or B-roll cameras under guidance, maintaining consistency in framing, exposure, and focus.
Handle camera accessories, including follow focus, monitor setups, and wireless video systems, ensuring smooth operation during shoots.

Lighting Setup & Management

Assist in designing and executing lighting setups across different formats—studio shoots, interviews, brand films, etc.
Manage lighting rigs, softboxes, flags, reflectors, and diffusion materials to ensure even, flattering illumination.
Ensure proper exposure levels, white balance, and color temperature are maintained, especially when shooting in S-Log/Log formats.

On-Set Execution & Support

Support on-set rehearsals, helping with blocking, test shots, and exposure tests to ensure seamless production flow.
Manage camera reports, shot logs, and ensure footage is labeled and handed off correctly to the post-production team.
Assist in managing data offloading (DIT work), ensuring footage integrity and proper backup processes.

Equipment Handling & Maintenance

Maintain and organize camera and lighting gear, ensuring all equipment is in optimal condition and ready for deployment.
Recommend equipment upgrades or new tools that can enhance production quality or efficiency.

What We're Looking For

Experience: 1-2 years in a similar role as a Junior Cinematographer, Camera Assistant, or Assistant DOP. A solid portfolio showcasing lighting, camera operation, and technical proficiency.
Technical Knowledge:
Familiarity with professional cinema cameras (Sony FX series, Canon Cinema, Blackmagic, etc.).
Working knowledge of lighting equipment, exposure settings, and monitoring tools (waveforms, vectorscopes).
Understanding of S-Log/RAW workflows and how to shoot for post-production flexibility.
Attention to Detail: A sharp eye for framing, lighting balance, and technical accuracy, with a drive to continuously learn and improve.
Work Ethic: Willingness to assist, learn, and take initiative on set. Comfortable working in tight schedules and high-pressure situations, maintaining a solution-driven approach.
Collaborative Spirit: Ability to work as part of a team, take feedback constructively, and support the broader creative vision.

Nice to Have

Experience with gimbals, sliders, dollies, and motion control rigs.
Basic understanding of audio recording setups, ensuring sound teams are supported as needed.
Familiarity with basic post-production workflows, including proxy generation, basic LUT application, and editing prep.

Why Join Us

At NxtWave, you'll find a unique opportunity to refine your cinematography skills while working alongside industry veterans. As a Junior Cinematographer, you'll gain hands-on experience in high-end video production, learn from the best, and be part of a team pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling in education and brand content.

This is your chance to grow into a lead role, contribute to cutting-edge content, and develop a versatile cinematography portfolio that speaks to quality and innovation.