Cinematographer

Overview

Lifeway is seeking a Cinematographer II to join our Media Creative team.  The Cinematographer II leads the visual and technical execution of Lifeway’s video and film productions. This role operates professional cinematography equipment, designs visual compositions, and creates shot lists and lighting plans to support creative goals. Working across all stages of production, the Cinematographer II collaborates with producers and crew to solve on‑set challenges and deliver high‑quality, compelling visual storytelling.

Why Lifeway? 

Lifeway is a place where you can bring your faith and work experience to join in the most important mission in the world: making disciples of Jesus Christ. Whether you’re a creator or storyteller, data guru or problem-solver, or anywhere in between, if you’re passionate about serving the church, we have a place for you. Lifeway has a strong Work from Anywhere (WFA) culture that is deeply focused on our mission and values. While headquartered in Nashville, TN, many of our positions are remote-eligible and have autonomy and flexibility with work hours. We provide equipment and resources to ensure team members have access to a productive and ergonomic workspace. We believe building relationships and community is essential to how we work together, so Lifeway hosts all-team meetings several times per year and provides travel for key team gatherings for remote-based team members. Full-time employees are eligible for enrollment in our comprehensive benefits plans, including healthcare, vacation and sick time, holiday pay, care days, 401(k) plan, maternity and paternity leave, adoption assistance, mission trip time, and more. If this sounds like a place where you would be excited to serve the kingdom of God, we would love for you to join our team.

Learn more about our culture at team.lifeway.com/culture-code 

This is a hybrid remote/in-office position located within approximately a 2 hour radius of the Brentwood, TN area.   

             Relocation assistance available.#LI-Hybrid 

Responsibilities

• Lives out Lifeway’s mission and values, showing deep commitment to Kingdom work

• Operates and maintains professional cinematography and video production equipment to ensure readiness for all shoots.

• Executes visual storytelling through expert camera operation, lighting design, and intentional composition.

• Leads creation of shot lists, storyboards, and lighting diagrams to support efficient film production.

• Collaborates with producers on crew and equipment planning to align technical execution with creative vision.

• Identifies and resolves on‑set technical and logistical challenges to keep productions on schedule.

• Applies new cinematography techniques, tools, and workflows informed by evolving industry trends.

• Directs and coordinates on‑set crew and freelance contractors, including gaffers and audio technicians, to ensure smooth production workflows and consistent quality.

• Maintains high visual and technical standards across all video and film content, ensuring outputs support established aesthetics and storytelling goals.

• Mentors Associate and Cinematographer I team members to support skill development and consistency.

• Partners closely with creative producers, line producers, and editors to ensure cohesive execution from production through post‑production.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree, not required

Master’s degree, not required

Doctorate in a related field, not required 

Skills, Knowledge, & Experiences, required

• 5+ years of experience in cinematography and video production, with proven leadership of studio and field productions, including mentoring crew and contractors
• Strong ability to independently plan, organize, and execute multiple projects under tight deadlines
• High proficiency with DSLR and cinema camera systems, lighting, grip, and audio equipment
• Advanced knowledge of lighting design and grip techniques to create complex, story-driven visual aesthetics
• Expertise in previsualization and production planning, including shot lists, lighting diagrams, and logistical workflows
• Strong problem-solving skills, applying creative and technical solutions to on-set challenges
• Collaborative storyteller with experience working closely with producers, directors, and production teams
• Excellent organization and time-management skills, ensuring production readiness and efficient use of resources
• Working proficiency in DaVinci Resolve or comparable post-production tools for media management and color wor
• Must be able to work flexible hours during shoots, including evenings or weekends as needed
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 75 pounds and assist with setup and tear-down of production equipment
• Some travel required (including overnight)

Actively involved in an evangelical Christian church

Skills, Knowledge, & Experiences, preferred 

• Familiarity with pitching and brainstorming creative concepts
• Exposure to working with models and actors during productions
• Familiarity with industry trends, emerging techniques, and new production tools