Director of Photography and Producer

About Story

Story is a creative studio based in San Francisco collaborating with top technology innovators worldwide to visually convey their cutting-edge ideas through brand films, documentaries, product videos, and animations. Our mission is to become the premier agency specializing in deep tech and science narratives, combining high-level ambition with a fresh approach tailored for future inventors.

The Role

We are seeking a Director of Photography/Producer who can integrate artistic camera work with production leadership. This dual role includes capturing compelling visuals across diverse formats and managing all production logistics such as scheduling, team coordination, equipment preparation, location scouting, and budgeting.

Responsibilities

• Operate the camera for multiple formats, including documentary interviews, brand promotional spots, narrative storytelling, and event recording.
• Lead decisions on visual aesthetics and lighting on set in partnership with directors.
• Oversee full production workflow: scheduling shoots, booking crew members, preparing gear, securing locations, and handling logistics.
• Manage shooting budgets and maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Serve as the client liaison on-site, exemplifying Story's craftsmanship and professionalism.
• Work closely with editors and post-production teams to ensure footage is optimized for a seamless editing process.

Key Attributes

• An expert eye for composition, lighting, and camera movement that enhances storytelling.
• Exceptional production planning skills to ensure efficient and timely shoot days.
• Confident and calm leadership when interacting with crew and clients during shoots.
• Agile problem-solving abilities in response to challenges with locations, weather, or scheduling.
• A team-oriented approach prioritizing footage suited to final editing over just footage collection.

Using AI

Story values genuine human creativity and prefers real people to lead artistic work. We accept AI as a supportive tool in areas such as pre-production planning, storyboarding, and workflow management, but not as a replacement for creative roles.

Requirements

• Portfolio demonstrating both skilled cinematography and full production management.
• Experience in producing, including budget oversight, crew supervision, and logistical coordination, beyond mere camera operation.
• Expertise operating professional cinema cameras and lighting equipment.
• Residency in or willingness to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area.

Compensation & Perks

• Competitive salary ranging from $90,000 to $130,000 annually based on experience.
• Health insurance coverage including dental benefits.
• Work within a scenic San Francisco office environment with a dedicated creative team.
• Complimentary lunch provided on workdays.