The German Society of Cinematographers (German: Berufsverband Kinematografie; abbreviated "BVK"), was founded in 1980 as a non-profit professional association of German free-lanced cinematographers / DoP's and their collaborators.
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Aims and objectives
The BVK presents, administers and promotes its members' professional and financial interests in conjunction with allied professional bodies in the audiovisual 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 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 the DoP's. The CameraGuide, published annually, and BVK's website provide a source of information on members' qualifications and standing.