Storytelling works best with cinematography. To be able to capture visuals and convey them without compromising the essence of the story, is an art. Most of us have a favourite go-to movie and we would probably have a favorite set of scenes or a shot that seemed fascinating, that is how cinematography techniques and storytelling go hand – in – hand. If you are an aspiring cinematographer, a student or someone who is passionate about cinematography – knowing the fundamentals, a few basics and filmmaking techniques can take you a long way. In this article, let us take a look at what the filmmaking techniques are and how you can master them.
1. Camera Angles
The angle you use as a cinematographer can make or break a scene. One might assume placing a camera anywhere will do the trick; however, it is important to understand the camera angle suggests and enhances the quality of the scene being shot. A scene that requires a wide angle cannot be completed with a close shot, it misses out on capturing the details of the wider picture and may seem ineffective. Some of the camera angles are:
- High Angle
- Eye Level Shot
- Low Angle
- Dutch Angle
- Shoulder Level Shot
- Aerial Shot
- Overhead Shot
2. Camera Movements
Movements can add depth to visuals, it can evoke emotions and feelings and can leave room for perception in the audience’ minds. Certain shots may require the camera to move horizontally from one side to another which is called a Pan shot. If a camera is to move along with a person, a cinematographer may use a dolly shot or a steadicam. The various shots a cinematographer can integrate are:
- Pan Shot
- Dolly or Tracking Shot
- Tilt
- Steadicam
- Crane Shot
- Handheld
3. Framing
Framing is all about creating a sense of connection between the camera and the subjects on the scene. This can be two or more characters, or even an individual. Setting the camera according to the sequence and its elements is important. We’ve often seen visuals with the background in blur and the person in focus, this gives the viewer a sense of importance being cast on the character and not the other aspects behind them. Some framing techniques are:
- Rule of Thirds: Dividing the frame into 9 equal parts with lines intersecting vertically and horizontally. Important elements will be placed along these lines.
- Leading Lines: Natural lines in the scene; like a road, or a wall for focus.
- Depth of Field: Knowing what to focus on.
- Symmetry and Balance: Making sure a sense of symmetry is maintained
4. Color Theory
A proficient cinematographer has a vision in their mind before working on a scene and they try to capture this vision through a camera. With the integration of framing, movements and angles they try to enhance the quality and beauty of the visual. In their mind they would also have a color theme or palette in which the potential visual must appear. It is important to visualize what the end product would potentially be like before working on it. Color grading during post production, color palette during shooting or story boarding and using colors for symbolizing concepts are all very important aspects.
5. Lighting Techniques
A generic or basic visual can be enhanced, augmented and beautified using the techniques of lighting. To evoke dramatic emotions, professionals prefer low key lighting – lighting that emphasizes shadows and contrast. Some visuals may work best with natural light irrespective of the time of the day. The most classic form of lighting chosen in the three – point lighting with a fill light, back light and a key light. Lighting, based on the requirement, can exhibit emotions and feelings like anger, sorrow, cheerfulness and much more.
6. The Rules of Composition Techniques
Composition as the word suggests is the arranging of elements within a selected frame. There isn’t a set composition that works for all sequences. Composition techniques such as lead lines, rule of thirds, leading room or head room, foreground, midground and background can be used to lead the viewer’s eyes to where you want, on the scene. You can arrange visual elements for a frame or a shot to convey any intended message.
7. Selecting Shot Size
The shot size of a frame goes hand – in – hand with composition techniques. This is used to determine how much of the subject is to be shown in the frame. For instance, the cowboy shot or the American shot is used to show a character or other subject from the waist and above. Shot sizes are also worked along with camera angles. Not all shot sizes work for every frame or visual. For instance, to indicate a suspect or a culprit who’s facial features are to be shown, a long shot or a wide angle would not do justice to the concept. A close up shot would be required to show emotions of tension and guilt.
8. Focus Techniques
In a given scene, a cinematographer gets to decide what to focus on. There are multiple techniques and settings for focus. This determines where the viewer’s eye would be directed to. The Rack focus technique is used to focus on different elements in a single shot. This is mostly used to indicate a shift in narrative or to bring movement different from the previous scene and establishes that both elements being focused are equally important. The Deep focus technique keeps all elements in the frame in sharp focus and the soft focus technique is used to create dreamy and nostalgic emotions.
Conclusion
Cinematography is an all encompassing technique that sets the tone of a film. A wonderful script and storyboard would be a success if the cinematography is exemplary and conveys the exact essence of the story. In today’s context prominent and leading institutes provide training, degree programs and certifications in filmmaking and cinematography, an opportunity for people passionate about cinema to learn the craft and hone their skills. A cinematographer is an artist and has all the capabilities of navigating the narrative of the movie.
Read more about AAFT’s School of Cinema here.