cinematography

[ sin-uh-muh-tog-ruh-fee ]

noun

1. the art or technique of video photography, traditionally used in movies, but also in the production of TV shows and other video content:

   The agency is hiring award-winning film directors to elevate these television commercials with classic cinematography and state-of-the-art special effects.

2. the artistic vision, tone, look, and feel of a video production:

   The film’s warm cinematography and romantic musical score immerse the audience immediately in a sweet and nostalgic world.

cinematography

/ ˌsɪnɪməˈtɒɡrəfɪ; ˌsɪnɪˌmætəˈɡræfɪk; ˌsɪnɪməˈtɒɡrəfə /

noun

1. the art or science of film (motion-picture) photography

Derived Forms

• cinematographic, adjective
• cinematographer, noun
• ˌcineˌmatoˈgraphically, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cinematography¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; cinematograph, -graphy

Example Sentences

Frank Sun is a filmmaker and cinematography who does photography as a hobby.

From BBC

At least visually, the cinematography is stunning with saturated reds, blues and amber oranges, as well as nifty focus racks that do a lovely job of telling us where to look.

From Los Angeles Times

In Nyoni’s terrific compositions, special mention must be made of David Gallego’s crisply evocative cinematography: interiors and exteriors of moonlit, shadowy depth that suggest an eternal night made palatable by pockets of haunting light.

From Los Angeles Times

The Oscars for cinematography and costume design brought back the fan-favorite “fab five” format, now revamped to have five cast members from each nominated film gush about the craftspeople up for the win.

From Salon

While the film’s cinematography and direction do the heavy lifting to make each shot look good, “Conclave” wouldn’t be half as interesting to look at without its team of production designers.

From Salon