How Much Do You Know About Cinematography? A Class Discussion

[Cardinal93]

Hello. I'm writing a paper for a MCW class at Northwestern University about my film viewing habits, in particular the breadth of my knowledge of cinematography. I would welcome a discussion by anybody who considers himself knowledgeable about cinematography and might give me some insights into it.

 

[David Mullen ASC]

Do you have a specific question that can be answered?

 

[Cardinal93]

David- I'm looking for a quick and dirty definition, what cinematographers do, how to tell good from bad cinematography, some tips on a film or two to watch to see some excellent cinematography, and maybe answers to a few other stray questions. I've researched a lot of this, but think an interview of sorts would really benefit me.

Jeff Burd

 

[David Mullen ASC]

Well, email me a specific list of questions and I'll answer them, as long as it's not ridiculously long.

 

[wburke]

There's like no easy answers cos if it's good then the intangible qualities shine through in what is a very technical profession. The best people don't talk too much in technics, but about the characters in the story and how they try to make their work flow around them, so that when they get it right you may not "see" good lighting except somewhere on the subconscious level things are like happening man. Dave M there will sort ya out.

 

[Cardinal93]

Cinematography questions

Cinematography questions

Okay, David. Thanks for your time. I've spent some quality hours this weekend getting a lot done on my writing, and it's beginning to take focus. That has allowed me to come up with some specific questions.

1. At the film school level, how is cinematography introduced? What fundamentals of the process are taught?

2. How can I tell if I'm seeing effective cinematography? Can you cite a few examples? On the other hand, how can I tell if I'm seeing ineffective cinematography? Can you cite a few examples?

3. When I consider the last 10 Academy Awards for Cinematography, I can understand why most of the films that won were awarded. However, can you explain some things about the cinematography of American Beauty that would help me understand how that film compares to other recent winners, such as Master and Commander, Braveheart, Saving Private Ryan, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon?

4. What film that you've seen has been the greatest inspiration for you as a cinematographer?

I look forward to your response.

Jeff Burd