Electronic Cinematography Course: Admission 2025, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Jan 13, 2025 05:37 IST

Electronic Cinematography or Digital Cinematography is a specialized field within filmmaking that focuses on capturing moving images using advanced digital cameras and technologies. This evolving discipline has become essential in film production, television, advertising, and OTT platforms due to its flexibility, cost-efficiency, and high-quality outputs.

Aspiring cinematographers can pursue Courses at UG, PG, and Diploma levels at prestigious Colleges like the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), MGR Government Film and Television Institute, Gulshan Kumar Film and Television Institute of India, and Biju Pattanaik Film and Television Institute. The course fees generally ranges between INR 2 Lakhs – INR 15 Lakh, depending on the institution and program duration.

Graduates can explore diverse roles such as Director of Photography (DOP), Camera Operator, Lighting Director, and Visual Storyteller. Entry-level salaries start at INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA, while the experienced professionals can earn up to INR 20 LPA or more in India.

Top recruiters for the Graduates of Electronic Cinematography or Digital Cinematography include Yash Raj Films, Netflix India, Red Chillies Entertainment, Sony Pictures, and leading advertising agencies like Ogilvy & Mather. This career combines technical expertise with artistic creativity, offering immense opportunities in India's booming media and entertainment industry.

Electronic Cinematography Course Details: Highlights

All motion images we see today are made possible because of the cinematographers working in the photography and film industries. Digital Cinematography is also helpful in speeding up the process of filmmaking. The film and television industries are rapidly expanding, creating numerous opportunities for cinematographers in India and abroad. Many young people are increasingly interested in this field.

You can go through the table below to know the key details about the Electronic Cinematography courses:

Particulars Details
Course Name Electronic Cinematography or Digital Cinematography
Course Levels UG, PG and Diploma
Course Duration 6 Months to 3 years
Entrance Exams CUET
Course Fees INR 15,000 - 10 lakh
 Salary INR 4 lakh to INR 6 lakh
Job Profiles Director of Photography, Cinematographer, Digital Imaging Technician, and Video Editor
Top Recruiters Production Houses, TV Industry, Photo Studios, Film and TV academies, etc.
Top Colleges

Film & Television Institute of India, Pune, Biju Pattanaik Film and Television Institute, Asian Academy of Film and Television, etc.

Note- This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Electronic Cinematography Course Relevant Information:

Cinematography Courses

Q:   What is an Electronic Cinematography Course?

A:

Based on the science and technology of digital image acquisition, Electronic Cinematography is all about making students see the world differently and presenting it in an engaging way. Through courses related to Electronic Cinematography, students are introduced to the technical knowledge of media involved in visual aesthetics, art appreciation, composition and shooting techniques, lighting theory, etc.

Electronic Cinematography not only brings art and digital media together. Rather, it is also helpful to a great extent in speeding up the process of filmmaking. This is the reason why many filmmakers are now giving more preference to Electronic Cinematography. If you also wish to make a career in filmmaking, then you can make a career in Electronic Cinematography.

Q:   What is the standard duration of an Electronic Cinematography course in India?

A:

In India, the duration of the Cinematography course can vary between 3 months to 3 years, depending on the level of the programme. You can check the table given below for more details:

Course

Course Duration
UG Level3 Years - 4 Years
PG Level2 Years
Certificate-Level/Diploma3 weeks to 6 Months

Electronic Cinematography Course Eligibility Criteria

Candidates can pursue the certification, diploma, dual diploma and degree-level course in Electronic Cinematography. The time duration for the courses can be as short as 3 months and as long as 3 years. A foundation degree is not required to get enrolled in a certificate or diploma program but determination and commitment will always take a long way. However, a degree or certificate that demonstrates some experience in the field is usually a plus. A degree in subjects like Mass Communication & Media or Filmmaking and more is relevant to the field.

The following are the eligibility criteria that a candidate must meet in order to be admitted to Electronic Cinematography Courses:

Course

Eligibility Criteria

UG Level To pursue an Electronic Cinematography degree or diploma level candidates should complete Class XII or 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate percentage (usually 50% - 60%).
PG Level To pursue Electronic Cinematography at degree or PG diploma level candidates should complete their graduation with the minimum percentage stipulated by a particular university/ college in which they are seeking admission.
Certificate-Level/Diploma Electronic Cinematography Certificate courses are short-term courses that candidates can pursue on passing Class 10th. 

Note: The eligibility criteria are subject to change depending on the college or entrance exam.

Q:   What is the eligibility for Electronic Cinematography courses?

A:

Candidates seeking admissions to UG and Diploma courses should have passed at least class 12th from a recognised Board. For a Diploma course in Electronic Cinematography, candidates should pass class 12 in any stream from a recognised board and If the candidate wants to pursue a PG course in Electronic cinematography then they need to complete their graduation with the minimum percentage which is specified by a particular university/ college in which they are seeking admission.

Q:   What is the eligibility criteria for cinematography course?

A:

The minimum requirement for admission into a cinematography programme is Class 12. After Class 12, one may go for various certificate and Diploma courses in cinematography to acquire knowledge in the field. Film and Television Institute of India (FTII)-Pune; Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute-Kolkata, Zee Institute of Media Arts and Whistling Woods International in Mumbai are some of the prominent institutes that conduct courses in cinematography.

Electronic Cinematography Admission 2025

Here is the general step-by-step guide for Admission to Electronic Cinematography Course:

  • Step-1 Choose the program: First Review the curriculum, specializations, faculty, and facilities after that check academic qualifications, entrance exam requirements, and any additional criteria.
  • Step-2 Prepare Required Documents: Prepare all the documents beforehand so that no last-minute issues occur. The documents include academic mark sheets, certificates, University Entrance Test Scores and letters of recommendation.
  • Step-3 Fill out the Application Form and Pay the Fees: Complete the application form provided by the institution. This may be done online or on paper and pay any required application fees.
  • Step-4 Entrance Exams (if applicable): Register and Prepare for the entrance exam. Take the exam then wait for the result.
  • Step-5 Submit Application: Submit all required documents along with the completed application form. Always ensure that all documents have been received and verify the status of your application.
  • Step-6 Await Admission Decision: Monitor the admission portal or your email for updates on the results. If accepted, an official offer letter will be provided by the university.
  • Step-7 Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your intention to enroll in the program and Pay the required enrollment or tuition Fees.
  • Step-8 Prepare for the Start of Classes: Follow instructions for course registration and orientation. If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus housing and attend any orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with the campus and program.
  • Step-9 Start Classes: Attend classes and start your academic journey.

Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program as they can vary. Some programs may also have additional steps or unique requirements.

Q:   How can I secure admission in an Electronic Cinematography course?

A:

Many colleges conduct an entrance exam in order to shortlist aspirants for admission to courses offered by them. Students can secure admission to an Electronic Cinematography if they fulfil the eligibility criteria for the course in which they want to secure admission. the general eligibility criteria is that the candidate should have completed Class XII or 10+2 in any stream from a recognised board with a minimum aggregate percentage for UG level Courses. If the candidate wants to pursue a PG level course in Electronic cinematography then they need to complete their graduation with the minimum percentage which is specified by a particular university/ college in which they are seeking admission.

Electronic Cinematography Entrance Exams 2025

Generally, a candidate can directly apply for Electronic Cinematography Course because many Colleges accept admission on merit. But, some colleges conduct an entrance examination to give admissions in the Electronic Cinematography or Courses related to electronic cinematography. Some of the popular entrance exams are as follows:

Electronic Cinematography Course Entrance Exams

Electronic Cinematography Course Exam Dates

Electronic Cinematography Exam Schedule

CUET 2025

May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative)

CUET Exam Date 2025

Note- This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.

2 Jan ' 25 - 8 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process

2 Jan ' 25 - 9 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process Online Fee

13 Feb ' 25

MAH AAC CET 2025 Application Last Date

5 Apr ' 25

MAH AAC CET 2025 Exam

28 Jan ' 25 - 5 Feb ' 25

NSD Exam 2025 Workshop cum interview

10 Jan ' 25 - 15 Jan ' 25

NSD Entrance Exam Registrations 2025

Feb '25 - Mar '25

PUBDET 2025 Applications

TENTATIVE

Jun '25 - Jul '25

PUBDET 2025 Admit Card

TENTATIVE

Q:   How is CUET exam centre allocated?

A:

CUET exam centre is allocated on the basis of the preferences entered by the candidate while filling the CUET application form. NTA allotes exam centre as per the preference entered and is subject to availability and logistical consideration.

While filling the CUET application form, candidates can select two cities of their choice. Choice of CUET exam centre cities will be limited to the State of permanent address or State of present address only. In case, there are very few candidates from a city, the NTA reserves the right to merge one, two, or more cities.

CUET 2025 exam will be held in May-June 2025 in computer based mode over a 15 days window. The exam will be held across more than 300 exam cities in India. Candidates will be able to know the alloted exam centre on issuance of CUET intimation slip or CUET admit card.

Q:   When should I register for CUET 2025?

A:

NTA will commence the CUET registrations 2025 tentatively in first week of February 2025 at cuetug-ac.ntaonline.in. Candidates will be able to fill the online CUET application form online when released. Candidates will be able to enter the personal, educational and CUET subject details to appear for the exam. Candidates must pay the CUET application fee to complete the registration process.

Q:   What are the required documents to fill CUET application form?

A:

To fill the CUET application form, candidates must ensure to keep the following documents/information ready in the prescribed size and format:

DocumentsRequired FormatRequired Size
Recent Photograph
  • Coloured or black and white with 80% face (without mask) visible including ears against a white background.
  • JPG/JPEG format (clearly legible)
Between 10 kb to 200 kb (clearly legible).
Scanned SignatureJPG/JPEG formatBetween 4 kb to 30 kb (clearly legible)
Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS etc.)PDFBetween 50kb to 300 kb
Scanned copy of the PwBD certificatePDF

Between 50kb to 300 kb

 

Electronic Cinematography Syllabus

Subjects that candidates study in a course related to Cinematography depend on the type of course (UG/ PG/Diploma/ Certificate) they pursue. However, the curriculum of any course that a candidate pursues covers both theories as well as practical experience in the form of internships, study tours, seminars, etc. Given below is the course curriculum of some popular courses in Electronic Cinematography:

Digital Cinematography using RED
Introduction to Cinematography Hands-on experience in handling the camera with a tripod, hand held etc Principles of Cinematography – Theory
Digital lessons & Lessons on exposure Intro to the light meter, Practical exposure evaluation Lighting interiors and exteriors with sets
Aesthetic cinematography on lighting Making videos and master class Post production and DI
VFX & Special shots like time lapse and others Conceptual Lighting --
BSc in Cinema (Specialisation In Cinematography)
Introduction to core forms and concepts of films Understanding primitive, early cinema and enhancing the basic knowledge of films Introduction to still photography and design technology
Digital Imaging Techniques Introduction to Adobe Photoshop Directing and producing individually
Developing advanced acting and directing skills Exploring the history of cinema after WW I and WW 2 Importance of lightning and cinematography in storytelling
Understanding the art of film and video editing Camera Lens & Optics Camera Lens & Optics Digital Video Techniques
Camera movements Aesthetics of make-up, costumes and jewellery Visual Storytelling
Developing the sense and ability of the craft The Third Dimension Understanding the process of cutting up a film and editing it
Introduction to Photography  Lighting and Visual Communication Camera
Introduction to Camera & Lighting technique Terminology in Cinematography The Shot and How to Frame It
Camera Angles Introduction to Cinematography Concept of Exposure

Digital Cinematography Syllabus

The subjects taught in Electronic Cinematography vary according to the level of the course. The topics mentioned below are broadly covered in almost all the subjects:

Electronic Cinematography Syllabus
Cameras for Motion Picture Transfer of Film to Video Tele-Cine Different Types of Film Cameras
Cinema Projection Digital Film Production Shooting through Mirrors Underwater Shooting
Rigging the Camera Demo Reel Introduction to 3D Introduction to CGI
Cinematography Analysis Color Theory Film History and Theory Film and Digital Laboratory
Optics & Digital Art Media Workshops on Cinematography Batteries for Motion Picture Camera Various Sections of the Motion Picture Lab
Colour Negative and Intermediate Film Film and Digital Camera Techniques Digital Postproduction Exponometry
Color Film Printing Colour Correction Sensitometry Films in Motion Pictures
Screening of Films Aerial Photography Various Camera Tests Different Types of Shooting Formats
Web Designing Visual Effects Shooting in Snow Audio and Video Editing

Electronic Cinematography Course Relevant Information:

Cinematography Syllabus

Q:   What are the skills required for Electronic Cinematography Course?

A:

Besides practical experience, there are a host of other skills and qualities that are required in this field. Some of them are listed below:

Skills for Electronic Cinematography

Creativity

Leadership skills

An Eye for perfection

Innovative skills

Technical Expertise esp. Camera and Film production process

Strong Communication Skills

Networking Skills

Confidence

Concentration

Q:   Which are the basic topics covered under the Electronic Cinematography course?

A:

The major topics that are common at all the levels of Electronic Cinematography Course are listed below:

  • Film screening, shooting, appreciation
  • About Cameras, types, angle and it's functioning
  • Lighting, its basics and techniques
  • Introduction to lenses

Best Electronic Cinematography Colleges in India

In India, numerous prestigious colleges offer courses in Cinematography or Electronic Cinematography. There are many colleges that offer different level courses in Electronic Cinematography and some of the Colleges also offer Cinematography Course which covers Electronic Cinematography.

Best Government Colleges for Electronic Cinematography

Candidates can check the names of the Government Colleges that offer Electronic Cinematography\ Cinematography in the table given below:

Electronic Cinematography Government Colleges Fees
Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU) INR 1.5 Lakh
MGR Government Film and Television Institute INR 74,980
Gujarat University NA
Government Film and TV Technical Institute, Bangalore INR 12,810
Biju Pattanaik Film and Television Institute NA
Kushabhau Thakre Patrakarita Avam Jansanchar Vishwavidyalaya INR 16,520
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute NA

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.

Best Private Colleges for Electronic Cinematography

Following is the list of Electronic Cinematography Private Colleges:

Electronic Cinematography Private Colleges Fees
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) INR 48,310 - 1.45 Lakh
Asian Academy of Film And Television INR 4.8 Lakh
Bennett University INR 9.75 Lakh
Gulshan Kumar Film and Television Institute of India NA
Film And Television Institute of Hyderabad (FTIH) INR 50,000 - 2 Lakh
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's Film, TV and Animation Studies INR 64,000
MIT School of Film and Theatre, MIT-ADT University INR 10.04 Lakh - 13 Lakh
Amity School of Film and Drama INR 2.88 Lakh - 4.77 Lakh
JECRC University INR 35,000

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.

1 Course
74.98 K
4.0
1 Course
35 K
40 K

Q:   Which are the popular colleges/ universities offering courses in Electronic Cinematography?

Q:   What are the fees of a Diploma course in Electronic Cinematography?

A:

The course fee for various colleges offering Diploma courses in Electronic Cinematography ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 5 LPA. The fees depends on colleges to colleges.

Popular Private Electronic Cinematography Colleges in India

1 Course
74.98 K
4.0
1 Course
35 K
40 K

Online Electronic Cinematography Courses

Online Electronic Cinematography Courses are rapidly gaining popularity due to their convenience and flexibility. In these programs, lectures are delivered through video conferencing, while notes, examinations, and evaluations are managed via a Learning Management System (LMS). This format enables students to enroll in an online Digital Cinematography even if they are living in a different city, as there are no on-site classes required. It also allows students to study and progress at their own pace, facilitating further career growth.

Below are some colleges that provide Electronic Cinematography Courses online:

Online Electronic Cinematography Courses Course Provider Fees
Digital Cinematography L. V. Prasad Film and TV Academy, Thiruvananthapuram 35,000
Photography/ Cinematography MSE Institute of Film and Media 40,000
Advanced Cinematography Course Brilliko Institute of Multimedia NA

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.

Q:   Which are the Colleges that provide Online Courses in Cinematography?

A:

There are four Colleges in India that provide Courses related to Cinematography. Below is the list of Colleges along with the time durationof the Courses:

Course NameCollege NameDuration
Digital CinematographyL. V. Prasad Film and TV Academy, Thiruvananthapuram6 weeks
Photography/ CinematographyMSE Institute of Film and Media6 months
Advanced Cinematography CourseBrilliko Institute of Multimedia3 months

Electronic Cinematography Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Short films, web series, TV shows, documentaries, and other forms of media have also provided opportunities for aspiring cinematographers. A cinematographer can also work as a Cameraman, Videographer, or as a Freelancer. Some of the main job profiles are given below:

Job Profile Job Description Salary 
Director of Photography The director of photography collaborates with the film director and is in charge of the visual aspects of the production. Their main responsibilities include deciding on a film's visual style, lighting and composition, and camera angles. INR 2 - 10.5 LPA
Video Editor As a film/ video editor, you will be required to manage raw camera footage, sound effects, graphics, and more to create a final film or video. It is a very crucial job in the post-production process, and the quality and timeliness of the final output will be dependent on your abilities and work. INR 1 - 6.6 LPA
Cinematographer The camera and lighting team are overseen by a cinematographer, also known as a Director of Photography. They're the ones in charge of the look, color, lighting, and framing of each and every shot in a movie. INR 1.1 - 10 LPA
Digital Imaging Technician A digital imaging technician manages digital image acquisition on set which includes organizing data workflows, backing up footage, creating look-up tables and calibrating monitors for accurate color representation. INR 1.5 - 6 LPA
Camera Operator Their job is to Operates cameras, assists the DP, sets up shots, and manages camera equipment. INR 1.2 - 7.3 LPA

Note: The average salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

Top Recruiters in Electronic Cinematography

 They often work in industries like film, television, advertising and digital media production. The graduates of this course can find work in production houses or they can also start their own business. Here are some of the top recruiters for electronic cinematographers:

Electronic Cinematography Top Recruiters​
Red Chillies Entertainment

 Netflix India

Reliance Big Entertainment
Star India Balaji Motion Pictures UTV movies, Balaji Telefilms Ltd
Yashraj Productions Disney+ Hotstar Balaji Telefilms
Ramoji Film City Studios Dharma Productions Eros International Media Ltd

Recommended Links for Electronic Cinematography Courses:

Q:   What skills are required to become a cinematographer?

A:

Cinematography is a very promising career. After completing a course in cinematography, one can join any small or big organisation as a cinematographer. For this role, one must have experience in the camera department. With these technical skills, and in-depth knowledge of lighting and filmmaking is also important. The ability to make creative decisions, and organisational skills are a must too.

Q:   How is cinematography field as a career option?

A:

It differs from one individual to the other, depending on one's choices and interests. It is true, though, that the more experience you have with this topic, the better it is. The field is both fascinating and exciting to work in. It is all about your perspective towards filmmaking and the process involved in it. For this role, one must have experience esp. in the camera department. With this; technical skills and in-depth knowledge of lighting and filmmaking is also important. The ability to make creative decisions and organisational skills are a must too. If you have all of this, then this is the field for you.

Electronic Cinematography FAQs

Here are a few important Questions related to Electronic Cinematography:

Q:   Is there any difference between a camera and cinematography course?

A:

To be a cinematographer is to be part of a large crew. A cinematographer, also referred to as the director of photography (or DP), is the individual in charge of the camera and lighting crews on a movie or other production. That's usually the job of the camera operator, who works under the cinematographer.

Q:   Which are the top recruiters in Electronic Cinematography field?

A:

After completing a course in Electronic Cinematography one can work for production houses like Yashraj Productions, Dharma Productions, UTV movies, Balaji Telefilms Ltd, Eros International Media Ltd etc. Some Cinematographers are also hired in Television Production Companies such as Balaji Telefilms, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, Colors TV (Viacom18), BBC Studios India, etc..

Q:   What is a Cinematography course?

A:

Cinematography course entails the skill of capturing and visually telling a story in a film or television production.  Some of the most common undergraduate cinematography courses are BA Cinematography, BFA Cinematography, and BSc Cinematography. Some of the specialised courses available at the master's level include a Post Graduate Diploma in Television Production and a PG Diploma in Digital Cinematography. Cinematography courses can range in price from INR 5,000 to INR 3 lakh.

Q:   Do cinematographers need a degree?

A:

There are no such requirements to become a cinematographer but a bachelor's degree in cinematography or film production can help candidates in learning the required skills for the profession.

Popular Electronic Cinematography UG Courses

Following are the most popular Electronic Cinematography UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

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Student Forum

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Write here...

Answered 3 weeks ago

In India, the duration of the Cinematography course can vary between 3 months to 3 years, depending on the level of the programme. You can check the table given below for more details:

Course

Course Duration
UG Level3 Years - 4 Years
PG Level2 Years
Certificate-Level/Diploma3 weeks to 6 Months

A

Abhay Dixit

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

The major topics that are common at all the levels of Electronic Cinematography Course are listed below:

  • Film screening, shooting, appreciation
  • About Cameras, types, angle and it's functioning
  • Lighting, its basics and techniques
  • Introduction to lenses

P

Piyush Chatterjee

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

The course fee for various colleges offering Diploma courses in Electronic Cinematography ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 5 LPA. The fees depends on colleges to colleges.

P

Pallavi Rai

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

Candidates seeking admissions to UG and Diploma courses should have passed at least class 12th from a recognised Board. For a Diploma course in Electronic Cinematography, candidates should pass class 12 in any stream from a recognised board and If the candidate wants to pursue a PG course in Electro

...Read more

K

Kritika Tyagi

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

Many colleges conduct an entrance exam in order to shortlist aspirants for admission to courses offered by them. Students can secure admission to an Electronic Cinematography if they fulfil the eligibility criteria for the course in which they want to secure admission. the general eligibility criter

...Read more

P

Pallavi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

After completing a course in Electronic Cinematography one can work for production houses like Yashraj Productions, Dharma Productions, UTV movies, Balaji Telefilms Ltd, Eros International Media Ltd etc. Some Cinematographers are also hired in Television Production Companies such as Balaji Telefilms

...Read more

A

Abhishek Arora

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

Besides practical experience, there are a host of other skills and qualities that are required in this field. Some of them are listed below:

Skills for Electronic Cinematography

Creativity

Leadership skills

An Eye for perfection

Innovative skills

Technical Expertise esp. Camera and Film production process

Strong Communication Skills

Networking Skills

Confidence

Concentration

A

Aashi Srivastava

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

Based on the science and technology of digital image acquisition, Electronic Cinematography is all about making students see the world differently and presenting it in an engaging way. Through courses related to Electronic Cinematography, students are introduced to the technical knowledge of media i

...Read more

M

Mohit Mishra

Beginner-Level 5