Junior Cinematographer

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.