Diploma in Film Making / Cinematography

Duration: 1–2 Years (varies by institute)
Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream — Arts/HEC/Science background preferred)
Course Type: Diploma (Skill-based Professional Course)
Field: Film Production, Cinematography, Direction, Editing, Screenwriting

Objective

To provide practical and technical training in all aspects of film production — from scriptwriting, camera handling, lighting, directing, editing, and post-production — preparing students for entry-level careers in the film, TV, and digital media industries.

Eligibility & Admission

Eligibility Criteria

Completed 10+2 (any stream) from a recognized board
Basic interest or background in visual media preferred
No upper age limit in most institutes

Admission Process

Direct Admission / Merit-based: Based on 12th marks
Entrance / Aptitude Test: Some reputed institutes conduct written creative aptitude tests
Portfolio / Interview: Personal interview and portfolio review (if available)

Curriculum & Subjects

Core Areas You Study

Introduction to Film Making & Film Language
Cinematography & Camera Techniques
Lighting for Film and Television
Scriptwriting & Screenplay Development
Film Direction & Production Design
Sound Recording and Sound Design
Video Editing & Post-Production
Documentary & Short Film Production
Film Analysis, Aesthetics & Criticism
Media Laws & Copyrights

Practical Training

Hands-on training with professional cameras and equipment
Studio and outdoor shoots
Short film projects in groups
Internships or assistant roles on real film sets
Final Diploma Film as part of evaluation

Skills You Develop

Cinematic visual storytelling
Camera operation and lighting setup
Scriptwriting and screenplay writing
Direction and team management
Editing and post-production software (Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve)
Communication and collaboration
Creative problem-solving and time management

Career Pathways

Film & TV Industry

Cinematographer / Director of Photography (DoP)
Film Director / Assistant Director
Scriptwriter / Screenwriter
Video Editor / Post-production Artist
Sound Designer / Foley Artist

Digital Media & Advertising

Ad Filmmaker / Creative Producer
YouTube Filmmaker / Content Creator
Documentary Filmmaker
Corporate Video Producer
Event & Wedding Cinematographer

Other Roles

Camera Operator / Lighting Technician
Film Critic / Film Researcher
Film Production Coordinator

Future Opportunities & Higher Studies

Further Studies

Advanced Diploma in Cinematography / Film Direction
B.Sc in Visual Communication
BFA (Film / Animation)
Bachelor of Film and Television Production
M.Des / MFA (after graduation)

International Opportunities

Film schools abroad (NYFA, Vancouver Film School, London Film School etc.) — require IELTS/TOEFL + portfolio

Salary & Top Recruiters

Salary Range

Entry-Level: ₹3–6 LPA
Mid-Level (3–5 yrs): ₹7–12 LPA
Senior-Level (Established filmmakers): ₹15–30+ LPA

Top Recruiters

Film production houses (Yash Raj Films, Dharma Productions, Balaji Telefilms)
OTT platforms (Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hotstar)
TV channels (Star, Sony, Zee)
Ad agencies and digital media firms
Freelance projects and YouTube content creation

Who Should Choose This Course?

Passionate about film making, visual storytelling, and creative media
Interested in cinematography, directing, editing, or scriptwriting
Enjoy working in creative, collaborative and fast-paced environments
Have a strong visual sense, creativity, and attention to detail