What’s the difference between cinematography terms and videography terms?

Cinematography terminology is rooted in professional set workflows across camera, lighting, grip, and post pipelines. Videography language is often simplified and platform-driven. On most professional productions, cinematography language dominates regardless of camera.

Why do film crews use so much jargon?

Because it’s efficient. Terms like “book light,” “martini,” and “negative fill” compress a full process into shorthand so crews can move fast and stay precise.

Is cinematography terminology universal?

Core terms are widely shared, but slang varies by region and production culture. This glossary reflects common North American professional set usage.

Do I need to memorize everything to work professionally?

No. But learning the basics makes you faster, clearer, and easier to work with. Use a glossary like this as a reference and your vocabulary builds naturally.

Building the Future

Camera: Red Digital Cinema

Lenses: Anamorphic

Resolution: 8K

Location: Texas

License Footage Here

“Construction worker in safety vest reviewing architectural blueprints at an outdoor building site in natural daylight.”

“Female construction worker in safety vest and hard hat smiling on set, captured in natural light by Dallas cinematographer Joey Arcisz.”

“Person in a safety vest operating a drone controller over architectural blueprints at a construction site.”