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.

Home
Stills

Work

Starlink
US Polo Assn.
Boxing
Tige
Agazul Tequila
Coca-Cola
Visit Fort Worth
Arcade
J + J
Family
Construction
Chippendales
JFK
Lieutenant Governor
Kubota
Conn-Selmer
American Heart Association
Construction Site
Sports
VR
Fashion

Gear

contact

email
Text
Call

Menu

JOEY ARCISZ

Director of photography

Home
Stills
Work
- Starlink
- US Polo Assn.
- Boxing
- Tige
- Agazul Tequila
- Coca-Cola
- Visit Fort Worth
- Arcade
- J + J
- Family
- Construction
- Chippendales
- JFK
- Lieutenant Governor
- Kubota
- Conn-Selmer
- American Heart Association
- Construction Site
- Sports
- VR
- Fashion
Gear
contact
- email
- Text
- Call

family

License Footage