Cinematography (CNMT1-CE)

Cinematographers are responsible for all the photographic elements of a film, including composition, lighting, and camera motion. From choosing the correct camera lenses and film stock to lighting the set, the cinematographer’s smallest choices have a great impact on a film’s look and feel. In this hands-on intensive, explore the role of the cinematographer through a series of progressively challenging projects. Learn the theory and operation of digital cameras, lens selection, lighting, and grip equipment; the visual interpretation of a script; the duties of the camera assistant; collaboration with the director and crew; the fundamentals of exterior and interior shots; and the use of digital exposure meters and various video formats. Sessions emphasize the aesthetics of cinematography. Gain experience shooting HD video using digital cameras.

Learn what the role of the digital imaging technicians (DIT) is, and how they are essential to video production. While handling workflow, systemization, signal integrity, and image manipulation, DITs collaborate with cinematographers and post-production supervisors to create interesting, high-quality images using numerous cameras. Learn how certain features like picture setting, grain, ISO, shutter speed, and file labeling in the hands of a capable DIT give a film its look—and save time in the often tedious post-production process. Explore terminology and menu settings from various cameras, learn best practices, understand the function of each menu item and its effect on the image, and become familiar with troubleshooting on a set.

Through a series of progressively challenging projects, this hands-on course teaches the professional concepts and techniques of digital media production. Learn how to interpret a script visually, to work with the director and a crew, to shoot exteriors and interiors, and to use digital exposure meters. Emphasizing the aesthetics of cinematography, sessions cover the role of the cinematographer, lens selection and camera operation, the duties of the camera assistant, and an overview of film stocks and video formats. Practice shooting HD video using digital cameras.

This workshop in advanced cinematography techniques provides you with the opportunity to shoot four projects, ranging from in-class exercises to fully lit location shoots. On each shoot, you will develop concepts and realize your artistic vision for the projects, all while gaining the technical knowledge necessary for successful execution. Before each shoot, you will receive individualized advice from the instructor, who is an award-winning cinematographer. Each project will culminate with a class screening, in which students review and critique each other’s work. You will work in teams to master the art of cinematography and receive instruction in digital acquisition. This course is open to both beginner and advanced students.

Shooting green screen allows filmmakers to create anything, from flying superheroes to an ancient battle, without a Hollywood feature budget. In this hands-on course, students shoot DV footage on a green screen backdrop and explore how to capture images separately from the background, match lighting conditions, and use visually arresting images for compositing. Students gain the technical knowledge to set up and shoot green screen footage in a studio and troubleshoot potential problems. The course is geared toward students with a background in cinematography, lighting, and DV technology.

A skillful cinematographer brings a whole new dimension to a director’s vision by creating images that enhance the narrative of a film. This survey course is for aspiring cinematographers, filmmakers, directors, and anyone interested in the art of cinematography. Study select examples of visual style, tone, and continuity from prominent films in order to learn what key elements to consider in setting up your own shots. Discussion covers the use of framing, composition, color, light, and shadow to create compelling images.

Digital video as a medium is particularly sensitive to light and presents a special challenge to the aspiring filmmaker. Learn how to create and communicate through the use of light. Study classic three-point lighting set-ups and then experiment with a series of ratio exercises to observe the effect. Determine how different contrast ratios correlate with different emotional states and how they lend themselves to particular projects or styles. Lighting styles, such as high key and low key and the most commonly used lighting equipment, are discussed.

The Steadicam has helped create some of the most memorable tracking shots in film history, including Rocky Balboa's victorious climb up the Philadelphia Museum steps. Now a vital tool in today's filmmaking industry, Steadicams offer greater stabilization for handheld shots, giving directors and camera operators greater physical freedom while providing additional stylistic choices. Practice walking with a Steadicam while keeping your subject in focus and dealing with shifting lighting situations. This course is limited to one crew of six experienced camera operators (shooting film or DV) or directors of photography who would like to add Steadicam to their skill set.