How much does a Cinematographer make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Cinematographer
Image that illustrates Cinematographer

Cinematographer

37 300 kr

Photographers

36 100 - 39 600 kr / month

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Cinematographer

Average salary 37 300 kr
Males 39 500 kr
Females 0 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 10 Vacant jobs ->

What does a cinematographer do? – Tasks and work environment

A cinematographer is responsible for visually shaping stories by creating images and sequences for film, TV production, or advertising. The profession involves leading and collaborating with the camera team, setting lighting, choosing camera equipment, and making key decisions about image composition. Work is often performed on filming locations, in film studios, or in various outdoor environments, requiring flexibility and the ability to work under changing conditions. Cinematographers work closely with directors and other creative roles to realize the vision for the production, and the work environment is characterized by a fast pace, time pressure, and sometimes long working hours.

Salary development over time

The salary of a cinematographer has shown a steady, albeit moderate, increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, rising to 37 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 5% over the period. Salaries are influenced by factors such as experience, employer, education level, and project size. The trend reflects general competition within the industry, where demand for skilled cinematographers is stable but the job market is relatively limited, with many working on a project basis. The slow salary increase may also be linked to the industry's dependence on budgets and funding within film and media.

Cinematographer salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 37 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (men), 37,100 SEK/month (women)
  • Highest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (men), 39,000 SEK/month (women)
  • Hourly rate: 224 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Men: 39 500 SEK/month, women: no specific average available
  • Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a cinematographer, a post-secondary education in film or photography is usually required, often from university or specialized vocational colleges. Practical experience is crucial, as the profession relies heavily on technical skills, creativity, and collaboration. Many cinematographers build their careers through internships, trainee positions, or assistant roles before taking on main responsibilities.

  • Formal education: University or vocational college degree in film/photography (2–3 years)
  • Courses and certifications: Specialized courses in lighting, camera technology, and post-production
  • Internships: Experience gained through internships or assistant work is common
  • Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and visual sensibility
  • Self-study: Many develop their skills through personal projects and networking

Cinematographers are often among the first on set and the last to leave a shoot. The profession requires not only technical skill but also the ability to quickly solve problems and adapt to changing conditions, making the role both challenging and rewarding.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for cinematographers include access to modern equipment, compensation for unsocial hours, and sometimes opportunities for further training or participation in industry events. Compensation may also include per diems for work at different locations and insurance covering equipment and personal injuries during production.

Competition and challenges

Competition for assignments is tough within the field of cinematography, especially in major cities where many production companies operate. Many cinematographers work as freelancers, which means workload can vary greatly between periods. Challenges include staying updated with technological developments, building and maintaining professional networks, and managing uncertain working conditions and project-based employment. The industry is also sensitive to economic fluctuations, as the availability of assignments often depends on funding and demand for film productions.

Tips for aspiring cinematographers

To succeed as a cinematographer, it is good to combine technical knowledge with creativity and strong collaboration skills. A curious and problem-solving mindset helps to quickly handle unforeseen challenges on set. Building a strong network in the industry is essential, as is continuously developing a portfolio with personal projects. Precision and patience are important qualities, as the work often involves long days and many retakes. Being proactive, learning from experienced colleagues, and being open to feedback are also central. Finally, a passion for visual storytelling provides a strong motivation to develop and find your unique style within the profession.

Key facts about cinematographers

  • Educational level: Post-secondary education in film/photography (2–3 years)
  • Work environment: Varies, often on set and with irregular hours
  • Work form: Commonly freelance and project-based employment
  • Demand: About 620 available jobs in the profession of cinematographers
  • Special skills: Technical expertise in camera, lighting, and image composition

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many cinematographers have the opportunity to take on larger productions, work as head of the camera department, or specialize in areas such as advertising, documentary, or drama. Some progress to roles such as director, producer, or teaching within film and media. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, it is difficult to give an exact forecast for future prospects, as the profession of cinematographer is part of a broader occupational group with limited statistics. However, there are approximately 620 available jobs in the profession of cinematographers, indicating a certain demand even though the job market is competitive and often project-based.

Frequently asked questions about cinematographers

  • What does a cinematographer earn?
    - The average salary is 37 300 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, employer, and project scope.
  • How does one become a cinematographer?
    - The common route is post-secondary education in film or photography and gaining experience through internships or assistant roles.
  • Are there salary differences between women and men?
    - Men earn an average of 39 500 SEK per month, while specific average salaries for women are not available, but highest and lowest salaries for women are known.
  • What is the job market like?
    - The job market is competitive, but there are approximately 620 available jobs in the profession of cinematographers.
  • What work environments are common?
    - Cinematographers work on filming locations, in studios, and sometimes outdoors, often with irregular hours.
  • Are special skills required?
    - Yes, technical understanding of camera, lighting, and image composition is essential for the profession.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-14 09:11:55

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Cinematographer is 39600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 39000 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Cinematographer is 36100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 37100 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 33800 kr 34200 kr
35-44 41200 kr 41700 kr
45-54 42400 kr 43800 kr
55-64 45500 kr 47900 kr
Snitt 36500 kr 37300 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Cinematographer has the SSYK code 3431, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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