🎥Intermediate Cinematography Unit 11 – On-Set Protocols for Cinematographers

Key Concepts and Terminology

• Cinematography involves the art and technique of capturing visual images for a film or video production
• Key terms include shot composition, camera angles (high angle, low angle, eye level), camera movements (pan, tilt, zoom, dolly), and depth of field
• Lighting plays a crucial role in cinematography, with key concepts such as three-point lighting (key light, fill light, back light), color temperature (measured in Kelvin), and light quality (hard vs. soft)
• Framing refers to the arrangement of elements within the camera's frame, including the rule of thirds, headroom, and lead room
• Aspect ratio describes the proportional relationship between the width and height of the image (common ratios include 16:9, 4:3, and 2.35:1)
• Dynamic range represents the difference between the darkest and brightest elements in an image, measured in stops
• Focal length is the distance between the lens and the camera sensor when the subject is in focus, affecting the angle of view and magnification

Pre-Production Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the director and production designer to develop the visual style and aesthetic of the project
• Create a shot list and storyboards to plan the visual narrative and camera setups for each scene
• Scout locations with the director and production team to identify suitable filming sites and assess lighting conditions
  • Take photographs and videos to document the location and plan camera angles
  • Consider logistical factors such as power sources, access, and permits
• Conduct camera tests to evaluate the performance of different cameras, lenses, and filters in various lighting conditions
• Develop a lighting plan and coordinate with the gaffer to ensure the necessary equipment is available
• Participate in pre-production meetings to discuss the project's creative vision, technical requirements, and production schedule
• Create a budget for the camera and lighting departments, considering equipment rentals, purchases, and crew costs

Equipment Handling and Safety

• Ensure proper handling, storage, and maintenance of camera equipment to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance
• Conduct regular inspections of cameras, lenses, and accessories to identify any issues or necessary repairs
• Safely transport equipment to and from set, using appropriate cases and padding to protect gear during travel
• Properly set up and secure camera equipment on set, using tripods, dollies, or other support systems to ensure stability and safety
• Maintain a clean and organized camera department workspace, keeping equipment accessible and free from clutter
• Adhere to electrical safety guidelines when working with lighting equipment, avoiding overloading circuits and using proper grounding techniques
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary, such as gloves or eye protection when handling heavy or fragile equipment
• Train camera department crew members on proper equipment handling and safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment

Communication on Set

• Establish clear lines of communication with the director, assistant director, and other department heads to ensure smooth collaboration and efficient workflow
• Participate in daily production meetings to discuss the day's shooting schedule, any changes to the script or shot list, and potential challenges
• Communicate with the camera crew, including the camera operator, first assistant camera (1st AC), and second assistant camera (2nd AC), to delegate tasks and ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities
• Use clear and concise language when discussing shot setups, framing, and lighting adjustments to avoid confusion and misinterpretation
• Collaborate with the sound department to ensure the camera's movements and positioning do not interfere with audio recording
• Coordinate with the grip and electric departments to set up and adjust lighting and camera support equipment
• Maintain open lines of communication with the post-production team, discussing any special requirements or considerations for visual effects or color grading
  • Provide camera reports, lens information, and other metadata to assist in post-production workflow

Working with the Director and Other Departments

• Develop a strong working relationship with the director, understanding their creative vision and translating it into visual language
• Collaborate with the production designer to ensure the visual elements of the film, such as set design, props, and costumes, align with the desired aesthetic
• Work closely with the gaffer and lighting department to create the desired mood, atmosphere, and visual tone for each scene
• Coordinate with the grip department to set up and operate camera support equipment, such as dollies, cranes, and jibs
• Communicate with the script supervisor to ensure continuity between shots and scenes, maintaining consistent framing, lighting, and character placement
• Collaborate with the makeup and hair departments to ensure the actors' appearance is consistent with the film's visual style and narrative
• Work with the special effects department to plan and execute complex or technical shots, such as explosions, stunts, or green screen work
• Coordinate with the location manager to assess the feasibility of shooting in specific locations and plan for any necessary modifications or accommodations

Lighting Techniques and Setups

• Understand the principles of three-point lighting and how to use key, fill, and back lights to create depth, dimension, and mood
• Use color temperature to create a specific atmosphere or evoke certain emotions, such as warm tones for a cozy interior or cool tones for a sterile environment
• Control the quality of light by using diffusion materials or modifiers to soften harsh shadows or create a more natural look
• Utilize practical lights, such as lamps or windows, to motivate the lighting in a scene and create a sense of realism
• Employ advanced lighting techniques, such as rim lighting or silhouette lighting, to add visual interest and depth to a shot
• Use light ratios to create contrast between the key and fill lights, controlling the overall contrast and mood of the scene
• Experiment with different lighting setups, such as high-key or low-key lighting, to create specific visual styles or genres (high-key for comedies, low-key for thrillers)
• Incorporate colored gels or filters to create specific color palettes or to correct for mixed lighting sources

Camera Movement and Framing

• Use various camera angles, such as high angles or low angles, to convey power dynamics, emotions, or character perspectives
• Employ camera movements, such as pans, tilts, or dollies, to reveal information, follow action, or create visual interest
• Utilize different shot sizes, such as close-ups, medium shots, or wide shots, to emphasize details, show character reactions, or establish the scene's geography
• Apply the rule of thirds when framing shots to create balanced and visually appealing compositions
• Use depth of field to control the focus of the viewer's attention, such as shallow depth of field to isolate a subject or deep depth of field to show the relationship between foreground and background elements
• Incorporate leading lines or vanishing points to guide the viewer's eye through the frame and create a sense of depth
• Experiment with unconventional framing techniques, such as Dutch angles or extreme close-ups, to create visual tension or unease
• Use shot transitions, such as match cuts or jump cuts, to create visual continuity or to convey the passage of time

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Address exposure problems, such as overexposed or underexposed images, by adjusting camera settings (ISO, aperture, shutter speed) or modifying the lighting setup
• Resolve color balance issues caused by mixed lighting sources or incorrect white balance settings by using color correction gels or adjusting the camera's white balance
• Minimize camera shake or vibration by using tripods, stabilizers, or other support equipment, ensuring smooth and stable footage
• Troubleshoot focus issues, such as soft or missed focus, by checking the lens calibration, using focus assist tools, or employing a follow focus system
• Address framing or composition problems by reviewing the shot list and storyboards, communicating with the director, and making necessary adjustments to camera placement or movement
• Resolve lighting continuity issues between shots by carefully documenting the lighting setup and using reference photos or video to ensure consistency
• Identify and fix technical problems with the camera or lenses, such as dead pixels, lens flares, or sensor dust, by cleaning the equipment or making necessary repairs
• Adapt to changing weather conditions or unexpected location challenges by using appropriate equipment (rain covers, ND filters) or modifying the shooting plan to accommodate the new circumstances