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director of photography

American  
[dih-rek-ter uhv fuh-tog-ruh-fee] / dɪˈrɛk tər ʌv fəˈtɒg rə fi /

noun

Movies.
  1. a person who is responsible for all operations concerning camera work and lighting during the production of a film. DP


Etymology

Origin of director of photography

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

"Film work has definitely been impacted by AI... it's really kicked us down," said Laura, 35, a director of photography in London, who preferred not to share her last name for professional reasons.

From Barron's May 27, 2026

Michael Bucher is a deputy director of photography covering The Wall Street Journal's feature sections including Life&Work, Mansion, Off Duty, Review and the Future of Everything.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 1, 2026

"It almost feels like having a cinematographer or director of photography specialising in action films assisting you."

From BBC Feb. 19, 2026

The cinematographer serves as the director of photography, greatly shaping the look and the feel of a film.

From Los Angeles Times Jan. 1, 2026

She even knew a Chinese cameraman who would be her director of photography.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

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