cinematography

Role of the Cinematographer & Department Organization

FTV 122E: Digital Cinematography Professor Sélène

What is the Role of the Cinematographer?

Role of the Cinematographer

• Collaborate on the overall Look of the film

Role of the Cinematographer

• Collaborate on the overall Look of the film

• Pre-production Planning

• Work with the director to come up with final shot list and floor plans • Provide guidance in all technical aspects of production • Location scout and make recommendations to production designer for dressing and

painting sets based on the vision for the “look” of the film, and requirements for lighting and camera movement.

• Organize camera, electrical, and grip crew • Shoot tests

Role of the Cinematographer

• Collaborate on the overall Look of the film

• Pre-production Planning

• Principle Photography

• Execute the vision for the “look” of the film, while helping to keep production on budget and on schedule

• Supervise all lighting on set • Watch dailies with director and key collaborators to judge how effectively the “look” is

working

Role of the Cinematographer

• Collaborate on the overall Look of the film

• Pre-production Planning

• Principle Photography

• Post Production

• Shoot any additional photography (“pick-ups”) if necessary • Supervise blending of visual effects shots with live-action footage • Supervise color grading – color timing or DI • Approve final print in collaboration with director and producer

Role of the Cinematographer

• The cinematographer, or Director of Photography (DP), is Head of Two Departments

Role of the Cinematographer

• The cinematographer, or Director of Photography (DP), is Head of Two Departments

• Camera Department • Lighting Department (Grip & Electric, or G&E)

Camera Department

• Who are the members of the Camera Department?

Director of Photography HEAD OF CAMERA DEPT

Camera Operator 1st AC

2nd AC Digital Imaging

Technician (DIT)

Loader (Film)

Camera Utility3

rd AC

G&E Department

• Who are the members of the Grip & Electric Department?

Director of Photography HEAD OF G&E

GAFFER KEY GRIP

Best Boy Electric Best Boy Grip

Electrician

Dolly GripRigging Crew

GripElectricianElectrician GripGrip

• BLOCK • LIGHT • REHEARSE • TWEAK • SHOOT