The German Society of Cinematographers (german: Berufsverband Kinematografie; abbreviated "BVK"), was founded in 1980 as a
non-profit
A nonprofit organization (NPO) or non-profit organisation, also known as a non-business entity, not-for-profit organization, or nonprofit institution, is a legal entity organized and operated for a collective, public or social benefit, in co ...
professional association
A professional association (also called a professional body, professional organization, or professional society) usually seeks to advocacy, further a particular profession, the interests of individuals and organisations engaged in that professio ...
of
German freelance cinematographers and directors of photography and their collaborators.
Aims and objectives
The BVK presents, administers and promotes its members' professional and financial interests in conjunction with allied professional bodies in the
audiovisual
Audiovisual (AV) is electronic media possessing both a sound and a visual component, such as slide-tape presentations, films, television programs, corporate conferencing, church services, and live theater productions.
Audiovisual service pr ...
field. It seeks recognition for the standing of the profession and promotes its public media image. The BVK also concerns itself with strengthening the profession's influence in the
film world and has broken new ground as far as the recognition and application of cinematographic
authorship
An author is the writer of a book, article, play, mostly written work. A broader definition of the word "author" states:
"''An author is "the person who originated or gave existence to anything" and whose authorship determines responsibility f ...
is concerned. Furthermore, it promotes working conditions which guarantee artistic and creative output.
Activities and memberships
Working together with the equipment factories through seminars and workshops the BVK widens its members' qualifications while encouraging technical innovation. The personal contacts among its members have led to an exchange of ideas and experiences which have done much to reduce competitiveness and open up new perspectives. The BVK is a founding member of the European Federation of Cinematographers/IMAGO and tries to intensify the international cooperation of directors of photography. The CameraGuide, published annually, and BVK's website provide a source of information on members' qualifications and standing.
External links
German Society of Cinematography, BVKCameraGuide of the BVKEuropean Federation of Cinematographers / IMAGO
Cinematography organizations
Film-related professional associations
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