Free Fall Cinematographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the thrilling world of cinematography, the demand for free fall cinematographers is soaring to new heights.

As filmmaking continues to evolve, the call for daring and skilled professionals who can capture breathtaking free fall shots grows louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a free fall cinematographer?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring cinematographer trying to grasp the specifics of this role,
• A film director seeking to sketch out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the magic of free fall cinematography,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a fully customizable free fall cinematographer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Free Fall Cinematographer Duties and Responsibilities

Free Fall Cinematographers are responsible for capturing the stunning visuals associated with free fall or skydiving events.

They are skilled in using the camera while skydiving, ensuring high-quality and precise footage of the free-fall or dive.

They must have a good understanding of skydiving techniques, equipment, and safety standards, as well as a strong background in photography or cinematography.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Coordinating with the skydiving team to understand the specifics of the jump and filming requirements
• Setting up and testing skydiving camera equipment for optimal functionality and safety during the free fall
• Executing the free fall or dive while filming high-quality footage from various angles
• Ensuring that all safety procedures and protocols are adhered to during the filming process
• Monitoring the weather and other external conditions to ensure safe and successful filming
• Reviewing and editing the recorded footage to meet the client’s or director’s specifications
• Working closely with the director to capture specific shots or scenes during the free fall
• Maintaining and servicing the skydiving camera equipment to ensure it is in good working condition
• Contributing to the creative process with innovative ideas for shots and filming techniques

 

Free Fall Cinematographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a courageous and seasoned Free Fall Cinematographer to join our production team.

The Free Fall Cinematographer is responsible for filming various subjects in free-fall or skydiving environments, capturing high-quality video footage.

They should be comfortable working at extreme heights and have a keen eye for detail, ensuring every important moment is captured.

Proficiency in operating a variety of filming equipment and the ability to work under pressure are essential in this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Film and document various subjects in free fall or skydiving environments
• Set up and test filming equipment before each use
• Collaborate with directors, producers, and other team members to achieve desired shots
• Ensure the safety of all equipment during operation
• Use creative techniques to frame and capture high-quality footage
• Apply post-production techniques to edit and enhance footage
• Work under extreme conditions and be able to react quickly to changes
• Maintain and repair filming equipment as needed
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and new filming techniques

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a cinematographer, preferably in extreme environments
• Experience with a variety of digital cameras and lenses
• Proficiency in various video editing software
• Strong understanding of lighting techniques and how to achieve desired effects
• Certified skydiver with a high number of logged jumps
• Ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions
• Strong physical fitness and comfort with heights
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• BSc degree in Film, Media or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Adventure-filled work environment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Free Fall Cinematographer
• Work Environment: Varying outdoor locations, often at high altitudes. Travel is frequently required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director or Production Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a reel of your previous work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Free Fall Cinematographer Do?

A Free Fall Cinematographer, also known as a skydiving videographer, operates in extreme sports scenarios.

Their primary clientele is often skydiving schools, adventure sports companies, movie productions, and individuals seeking thrilling experiences.

Their primary task involves filming or photographing skydivers or free-fallers mid-flight, capturing their descent and landing.

This requires the cinematographer to be a trained and certified skydiver themselves, as they often have to film while in free fall with the subjects they are filming.

They work closely with skydiving instructors and other related professionals to ensure that the filming process is safe and well-coordinated.

They are also responsible for maintaining and adjusting their photography or filming equipment, including the mounts and brackets needed to secure cameras during the free fall.

In addition to the actual filming, a Free Fall Cinematographer also often participates in pre-jump preparations, including planning the jump, checking equipment, and briefing the subjects.

They may also be involved in post-jump activities such as video editing, photo processing, and media distribution.

Their job requires high levels of physical fitness, courage, and technical skills.

Above all, it requires a deep understanding of both cinematography and skydiving.

 

Free Fall Cinematographer Qualifications and Skills

A competent Free Fall Cinematographer should have a range of unique qualifications and skills, including:

• Technical knowledge of various camera equipment and the ability to operate them under challenging conditions.
• Physical fitness and training in parachuting and free fall techniques to safely capture dynamic aerial shots.
• Exceptional coordination skills for maintaining proper framing and focus during free-falling sequences.
• Strong visual creativity and a keen eye for details to create compelling and visually arresting images from an aerial perspective.
• Understanding of safety procedures and risk management associated with free fall cinematography.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills to coordinate with directors, stunt coordinators, and other crew members both on the ground and in the air.
• Patience and perseverance to deal with unpredictable weather conditions and multiple takes.
• Good knowledge of film editing software to assist in the post-production process.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage stress and maintain composure during potentially dangerous situations.

 

Free Fall Cinematographer Experience Requirements

Free Fall Cinematographers often start their journey with a background in film studies or photography.

This may be through a formal degree or diploma program, or self-taught skills honed over several years.

Entry-level free fall cinematographers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships, part-time roles, or personal projects in cinematography.

Such experience often includes work on ground-based shoots, with a particular focus on action, sports, or outdoor cinematography.

Candidates with around 2 to 4 years of experience might also have some experience in aerial photography or videography.

This could include drone operation, helicopter filming or even some initial experience in skydiving or paragliding shoots.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have a significant amount of free fall cinematography experience.

This can involve high-altitude filming, complex stunt coordination, and advanced cinematography techniques.

These individuals usually have a strong background in skydiving or BASE jumping, with hundreds of jumps under their belt.

A career in free fall cinematography also requires a high level of physical fitness and an ability to work under extreme conditions.

As such, relevant experience may also include a background in extreme sports, fitness training, or other physically demanding roles.

Lastly, due to the inherent risks involved in this profession, a free fall cinematographer should have significant safety training.

This could include a first aid or emergency medical training, as well as skydiving certifications from recognized institutions.

 

Free Fall Cinematographer Education and Training Requirements

Free Fall Cinematographers typically start their career paths with a bachelor’s degree in film or cinematography.

They need an in-depth understanding of film theory, production and camera techniques, editing, lighting, sound, and other elements of the filmmaking process.

Additionally, Free Fall Cinematographers need specific training in skydiving and other aerial sports.

This includes obtaining certifications from organizations like the United States Parachute Association (USPA).

Having a solid background in photography and aerial videography is essential.

They need to be skilled in using a variety of camera equipment, including GoPros and DSLRs, and be familiar with the constraints and challenges of filming in free fall conditions.

Further certifications in drone operations and other aerial imaging technologies can also be beneficial.

Additionally, Free Fall Cinematographers must have a high level of physical fitness and be comfortable with heights and extreme conditions.

Pursuing advanced courses or master classes in aerial cinematography and filmmaking can help these professionals enhance their skills and stay updated on new technologies and techniques.

Finally, practical experience is key.

A portfolio showcasing previous work, especially aerial or free fall footage, is typically required for employment in this field.

 

Free Fall Cinematographer Salary Expectations

A Free Fall Cinematographer, also known as a Skydiving Cinematographer, earns an average salary of $55,000 (USD) per year.

This salary can significantly vary based on the cinematographer’s experience, the complexity of the shoots, geographical location, and the budget of the production company.

Additionally, the nature of this job involves a high level of risk which could also influence the salary.

 

Free Fall Cinematographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Free Fall Cinematographer need?

Free Fall Cinematographers should possess a combination of artistic, technical, and physical skills.

They need to have a deep understanding of camera equipment and cinematography techniques, as well as an ability to manage the physical demands of filming while free falling.

This includes maintaining a steady hand, managing equipment weight, and keeping focus while moving at high speeds.

Additionally, they should have strong communication skills to coordinate with other crew members during flights and jumps.

 

Do Free Fall Cinematographers need any specific qualifications?

While a formal education in film or cinematography can be beneficial, it is not a strict requirement for Free Fall Cinematographers.

The most important qualifications are practical experience with cinematography and free fall or skydiving certification.

They must be extensively trained and experienced in both skydiving and using camera equipment in extreme conditions.

 

What should you look for in a Free Fall Cinematographer resume?

Aside from a strong portfolio showcasing their cinematography work, a Free Fall Cinematographer’s resume should demonstrate significant experience in skydiving or other free fall activities.

They should have completed a recognized skydiving certification program and logged a substantial number of jumps.

Also look for any additional certifications or training they may have, such as in high-altitude filming or specialized camera equipment.

 

What qualities make a good Free Fall Cinematographer?

A good Free Fall Cinematographer should be adventurous, physically fit, and calm under pressure.

They need to be able to think and act quickly, as free fall filming requires rapid adjustments to capture the best shots.

Additionally, they should have a keen eye for detail to ensure high-quality footage, and excellent teamwork skills to work effectively with the rest of the crew during high-pressure situations.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Free Fall Cinematographer?

Yes, hiring a Free Fall Cinematographer can be quite challenging due to the unique combination of skills required.

This role demands not only technical cinematography skills but also extensive experience in skydiving.

Finding a professional with proficiency in both areas may take time and require a thorough and rigorous recruitment process.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve brought into focus what it truly entails to be a free fall cinematographer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about capturing stunning aerial shots.

It’s about shaping the visual storytelling of the future, one frame at a time.

With our comprehensive free fall cinematographer job description template and real-life examples, you’re all geared up to make a leap.

But why halt the momentum?

Descend further with our job description generator. It’s your next stage to perfectly crafted listings or refining your portfolio to excellence.

Remember:

Every frame captured is a part of the larger narrative.

Let’s craft that story. Together.

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