Cinematography

Entry requirements

We are looking for people with innate talent. Therefore, previous training in these areas is not mandatory but some basic technical knowledge is required. Experience gained from working in the camera department of the film and television industry is helpful but not essential.

You will need an understanding of the role of the Director of Photography and its creative and logistical responsibilities, and demonstrate good communication, collaborative skills and leadership qualities.

You must have a good understanding of “cinematic language” and demonstrate this in your submitted film material.

While many applicants will have a degree from a British or overseas university, we will consider applicants who do not have a degree if they have an impressive portfolio, a creative track record (for instance, in theatre or other arts) or an alternative qualification.

Months of entry

January

Course content

The only two-year specialist cinematography MA in the UK.

Learn the art and craft of cinematography, combining creative expression with technical expertise. Collaborate with fellow students, shooting several films, with the opportunity to shoot both live action and animation. You’ll have access to a range of camera equipment including 16mm and 35mm film as well as Alexa XT and Alexa Mini Cameras, while you learn first-hand from Industry professionals and then graduate with the experience and knowledge to shoot cross-genre for film and television.

This highly practical course explores the many ways in which the cinematographer participates in the collaborative process of translating screenplays into films. Exercises, workshops, masterclasses and productions, supported by critical and analytical study of the history and development of cinematography, will give you a solid foundation in the art and craft of your future career.

Course Facilities

You will have access to our range of over 50 film and digital video cameras, which includes Arri Alexa, Alexa Mini, Arri SRIII (S16mm), Aaton XTR Prod (S16mm), Aaton 35mm, Blackmagic Ursas, Pockets and Mini Ursas (including outside broadcast ability), Sony FS7, Canon C200 and Panasonic DVX200 Doc/Broadcast cameras. Our large stock of grip equipment and a wide range of lighting allows you to maximise your creativity in any situation.

What You Will Study

You’ll be working with film, and also training in High Definition, Digital Cinema and Digital Post Production. We emphasise visual storytelling alongside the art of creating mood and evoking emotion through the right combination of composition and lighting. You’ll be working closely with students of other specialisations, and have the opportunity to shoot fiction, animation and documentary films, commercials and multi-camera television.

During the course you will be provided with tutorials, seminars, screen studies, workshops and Masterclasses with specialist tutors and visiting professionals.

Information for international students

This course is open to UK/EU/International students.

Fees and funding

Please visit our website for fees information. All production costs are included in the course fees, including the use of School facilities and equipment.

The NFTS is committed to ensuring it is open to students of genuine ability, no matter what their background or financial circumstances, which is why we award more scholarships and bursaries to British students, relative to the size of our student body, than almost any other educational institution in the UK.