What is digital cinematography?
Digital cinematography revolves around the art of capturing moving images through digital means. Differing from the conventional film cinematography, which relies on film stock for light recording, digital cinematography employs cameras equipped with digital sensors to seize light. These captured images are then stored in digital formats, either on tapes or as digital files.
What is the difference between digital cinematography and film cinematography?
| Digital Cinematography | Film cinematography |
| · Uses digital sensors and electronic components. · Saves images as digital files for easy access. · Initial costs tend to be lower due to no film stock and development. · Enables instant review of shots on set. · Offers efficient and flexible digital editing. · Provides high resolutions, like 4K and beyond. · Allows accessible digital effects and color correction. · Offers adjustable settings for better low-light shots. · Faster post-production workflow due to digital nature. · Easily converts to various digital formats for distribution. | · Uses physical film stock (celluloid) for recording. · Relies on film reels, requiring chemical processing. · Initial costs are higher due to film stock and development. · No instant playback; film needs processing. · Requires physical cutting and splicing of film reels. · Provides lower resolution compared to digital. · Involves complex processes for effects and grading. · Typically requires more lighting in scenes. · Slower post-production workflow due to film development. · Requires conversion to digital formats for modern distribution. |
Here are the general admission requirements to digital cinematography
| Degree | Credits(may vary) | Duration | Admission Requirements(may vary by college) |
| Associate’s degree | 60 credits | 2 years | GED/Meet GPA Requirements |
| Bachelor’s degree | 120 credits | 4 years | HSE/Official High School Transcripts/Minimum Required GPA |
| Master’s degree | 40-60 credits | 2 years | A Bachelor’s degree in a related field. |
Online accredited associate degrees in digital cinematography
1.Digital film academy
Program: Associate degree in digital media
Tuition: $200 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by Council on Occupational Education.
Financial aid: Available, with 66% of the students receiving the aid.
Through the program, you’ll delve into the psychology behind captivating an audience’s emotions, gaining the skills necessary to excel as a filmmaker and adept creator of high-quality media content. You’ll have the opportunity to bring your own media projects to life, managing the entire journey from conceptualization to the final screening.
2.Los Angeles Film School
Program: AS in filmmaking
Tuition: $208 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the school and the program are accredited by ACCSC.
Financial aid: Available, with 69% of the students receiving the aid.
Upon program completion, students are well-prepared to engage in diverse behind-the-scenes roles on set. These encompass positions like grip, set dresser, assistant editor, and 2nd assistant camera, providing a strong foundation for contributing effectively to the filmmaking process.
3.Southern New Hampshire University
Program: AA in Photography
Tuition: $330 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the school and the program are accredited by CAEP.
Financial aid: Available, with 51% of the students receiving the aid.
You’ll acquire the essential technical skills vital for a thriving career as a digital photographer. This includes mastering thematic storytelling, understanding design theory, honing image composition, harnessing the power of light and color to craft captivating digital images, and becoming proficient in post-production editing techniques.
Online accredited bachelor’s degrees in digital cinematography
1.Indiana University
Program: BS in Digital Media and Storytelling.
Tuition: $290 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by HLC.
Financial aid: Available, with 83% of the students receiving the aid.
Discover the elements that constitute captivating narratives. The Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Storytelling program from IU Online imparts the skills to leverage digital tools for crafting both artistic and professional messages and stories.
2.Academy of Art University
Program: (BFA) in Motion Pictures & Television
Tuition: $357.33 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by WASC
Financial aid: Available, with 73% of the students receiving the aid.
The degree establishes a robust groundwork encompassing both the creative elements and business acumen required within the entertainment industry. Moreover, it delves into specialized knowledge tailored to distinct aspects of filmmaking, which may include directing, producing, cinematography, editing, production design, or screenwriting.
3.Grand Canyon University
Program: BA in Digital Film
Tuition: $485 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by HLC.
Financial aid: Available, with 87% of the students receiving the aid.
Enrolling in a film and video production degree program specializing in digital production offers an immersive experience in the world of contemporary cinematography and narrative crafting. This educational journey delves into the artistry behind the camera and provides insights into the dynamic landscape of visual storytelling. Additionally, the program covers the business aspects of the film industry, including crucial topics such as finance, budgeting, and distribution strategies.
4.Maharishi International University
Program: BA in Cinematic Arts and New Media.
Tuition: $500 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by HLC.
Financial aid: Available, with 87% of the students receiving the aid.
In our BA program in Cinematic Arts & New Media, you’ll gain insights beyond the technical aspects of media production. Our curriculum focuses on helping you comprehend your distinct creative journey and develop work that is genuinely unparalleled.
5.The University of Arizona
Program: Bachelor of General Studies program with a focus in Arts, Media, and Entertainment.
Tuition: $500 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by HLC
Financial aid: Available, with 77% of the students receiving the aid.
This program equips students with skills in critiquing and appraising various art forms, understanding the channels through which creativity is expressed, and implementing promotional and marketing strategies within the performing arts. Through a comprehensive exploration of art, music, media, cultural heritage, and popular culture, students establish a strong base for diverse career pathways.
6.Arizona State University.
Program: BA in in Film and Media Studies
Tuition: $561 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by HLC.
Financial aid: Available, with 76% of the students receiving the aid.
The program delves into the in-depth examination of film, television, gaming, and emerging media. Through this online film degree, you’ll investigate the intricate interplay of cultural, social, and economic influences shaping the dynamic film and media sphere.
7.Miami International University
Program: BA in Digital Filmmaking and Video Production.
Tuition: $575 per credit hour
Accreditation: the school and the program are accredited by SACSCOC
Financial aid: Available, with 100% of the students receiving the aid.
This comprehensive program covers all facets of filmmaking and production, spanning from the art of storytelling and scriptwriting to sound design, lighting, broadcast graphics, editing, compositing, and even acting and directing. You’ll establish a strong grounding in industry-related subjects through courses that explore theory, criticism, and the historical evolution of film and media.
Online accredited master’s degrees in digital cinematography
1.Academy of Art University
Program: (MA) in Motion Pictures and Television
Tuition: $1,218 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the program and the school are accredited by WSCUC.
Financial aid: Available, with 73% of the students receiving the aid.
The Master’s program in Writing & Directing for Film offers a focused curriculum dedicated to honing skills in crafting and directing original short films or extended scenes. Students embark on a comprehensive journey through the stages of project development, guided by mentors who provide support during preproduction, production, and postproduction phases for their thesis project or scene.
2.Syracuse University
Program: M.A. in Television, Radio & Film
Tuition: $1,802 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the program and the school are accredited by MSCHE.
Financial aid: Available, with 82% of the students receiving the aid.
Our program in television, radio, and film caters to individuals driven by a passion for narrative, catering to screens of all dimensions. It delves into diverse facets of entertainment media, exploring storytelling, industry dynamics, technological advancements, and the artistic essence that shapes these forms of media.
3.American University
Program: MA in Producing Film, Television, and Video
Tuition: $1,922 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the program and the school are accredited by MSCHE.
Financial aid: Available, with 74% of the students receiving the aid.
The program is tailored for working professionals aiming to forge paths in producing across various media – film, video, television, and multimedia. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured, involving enrollment in two courses per semester, conveniently scheduled on Saturdays.
4.University of Miami
Program: Master of Fine Arts in Motion Pictures
Tuition: $2,310 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the program and the school are accredited by SACSCOC.
Financial aid: Available, with 66% of the students receiving the aid.
The M.F.A. in Motion Pictures program provides an all-encompassing curriculum focused on the innovative application of technology for both narrative and documentary filmmaking.
5.American Film Institute Conservatory AFI
Program: Master in Cinematography
Tuition: $2,269 per credit hour
Accreditation: both the program and the school received accreditation through WSCUC
Financial aid: Available, with 75% of the students receiving the aid.
Cinematography students are presented with the opportunity to master the skill of making quick, well-informed, and creatively inspired decisions to capture the profound impact of visual storytelling.
Job outlook for digital cinematography degrees
Pursuing a career in online cinematography opens doors to a range of opportunities across the media, communication, and entertainment sectors.
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in media and communication equipment roles earn a median salary of $50,870.
Source: U.S. BLS
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the media and communication field is anticipated to experience a 14% growth in employment over the next decade, a rate much faster than the average.
Over the same period, job opportunities for film and video editors are predicted to increase by 33%, and camera operators are projected to witness a 24% growth in employment (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
| careers | Annual median salaries |
| Art Directors — Motion Picture and Video Industries | $122,960 |
| Film and Video Editors — Motion Picture and Video Industries | $77,040 |
| Producers and Directors | $76,400 |
| Lighting operators and Communication Equipment Workers | $70,980 |
| Camera Operators — Motion Picture and Video Industries | $66,700 |
| Camera Operators — Radio and Television Broadcasting | $54,660 |
| Film and Video Editors — Television Broadcasting | $54,030 |
| Camera Operators — Government | $52,550 |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $47,920 |
| Camera Operators — Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $43,930 |
Source: U.S. BLS
Is a degree in digital cinematography worth it?
Yes, pursuing an online degree in cinematography can be highly valuable for numerous individuals. Such a program equips you with sought-after skills in an industry that is continuously growing and evolving.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, camera operators are expected to see a job growth of 24%, while film and video editors could experience a job growth of 33% over the coming decade. The field of audio and video technicians is predicted to expand by 26%, and lighting technicians as well as media and communication workers could see a growth of 16% (Bureau of Labor Statistics). These projected growth rates signify the opportunities present in the industry.
