Cinematography

Cinematography, the second stylistic element of filmmaking we consider this semester, translates to the phrase “writing in motion.” It is, the textbook Looking for Movies points out, “an intricate language that can contribute to a movie’s overall feeling as much as the story, mise-en-scene, and acting do” (208).

Let’s learn more about cinematography and its intricate language…

Speed of Motion

What is the standard rate of film projection (frames per second)?

How is slow-motion cinematography produced?

And fast-motion?

And time-lapse cinematography?

Perspective Relationships: Depth of Field and Focal Length

In addition to normal or middle, list three types of lenses used in filmmaking. What does each accomplish?

How does a zoom lens function?

Does the camera actually move with a zoom lens?

What does depth of field mean?

What is racking focus, and why do filmmakers generally employ this device?

Does the camera move with any of the elements covered in this section on perspective relationships?

Framing: Height (or Level), Angle, Distance

How many camera angles and shot distances (the implied proximity to the camera) does your text introduce?

What level (or angle) of framing is used in this shot from the film noir Pickup on South Street?

Which secondary character from Do the Right Thing is often framed with the same level as the image above? Why might Spike Lee employ this angle with that particular character? What does it suggest?

What is the shot distance of the following from Do the Right Thing?

Mobile Framing / Camera Movements

How many types of mobile framing (or camera movements) does your book consider? How are they defined and recognized? TIP: Be wary of the zoom lens!

Watch this critical scene from Citizen Kane, in which a young Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles) is sent to live with a guardian, and explain the depth of field and the type(s) of mobile framing used.

Finally, any questions about cinematography, ask your classmates on Twitter with the appropriate hashtag.