20 Best Books About Cinematography (2023 Update)

Ellis has interviewed some of the most influential and highly regarded cameramen of the last half century and more, and he has assembled these exchanges in conversations with cinematographers. while their names may not be known by the general public, these men and their work have left indelible imprints on the silver screen. among those interviewed are several award-winning artists: – douglas slocombe (kind hearts and coronets, julia, raiders of the lost ark) – oswald morris (the guns of navarone, fiddler on the roof, oliver!) – christopher challis (a shot in the dark, chitty chitty bang bang, top secret!) – billy williams (women in love, the wind and the lion, gandhi) – freddie francis (sons and lovers, the elephant man, glory) – chris menges (the killing fields, the mission, the reader) – john de borman (the full monty, hamlet, an education) – gilbert taylor (dr. strangelove, a hard day's night, frenzy, star wars) – jack cardiff (black narcissus, the red shoes, the african queen) – nicolas roeg (fahrenheit 451, far from the madding crowd, petulia) – alex thomson (excalibur, legend, hamlet) – walter lassally (tom jones, zorba the greek, heat and dust) – anthony dod mantle (slumdog millionaire, the last king of scotland, 127 hours) along with several camera operators who were also interviewed, these cinematographers recount their experiences on sets and reveal what it was like to work with some of the most acclaimed directors of all time, including alfred hitchcock, fred zinnemann, carol reed, john huston, david lynch, and steven spielberg. with valuable insight into the craft of moviemaking, this collection of interviews will appeal to film professors, scholars, and students, as well as anyone with an interest in the art of cinematography.

The french film director robert bresson was one of the great artists of the twentieth century and among the most radical, original, and radiant stylists of any time. he worked with nonprofessional actors—models, as he called them—and deployed a starkly limited but hypnotic array of sounds and images to produce such classic works as a man escaped, pickpocket, diary of a country priest, and lancelot of the lake. from the beginning to the end of his career, bresson dedicated himself to making movies in which nothing is superfluous and everything is always at stake. notes on the cinematograph distills the essence of bresson’s theory and practice as a filmmaker and artist. he discusses the fundamental differences between theater and film; parses the deep grammar of silence, music, and noise; and affirms the mysterious power of the image to unlock the human soul. this book, indispensable for admirers of this great director and for students of the cinema, will also prove an inspiration, much like rilke’s letters to a young poet, for anyone who responds to the claims of the imagination at its most searching and rigorous.

"known as the "filmmaker's bible," for several generations, one of the world's most widely used cinema reference books is more comprehensive than ever — moving into the digital side of image capture. 26, 2021.

Over 200,000 sold! adopted for use by over 700 college courses! written by a working professional, here is the most user-friendly book available on the subject of film and video production; it reduces the shooting experience to its essence, making complicated concepts easy to grasp. using simple clear language and more than 150 illustrations, the book explains: exposure lenses composition basic sequence crossing the line lighting montages sound editing and much more! when you finish this book, you will know and understand how to shoot good pictures that will edit together seamlessly in post-production. with added chapters on sound and editing, this new edition of the bare bones camera course for film and video rounds out the education of any filmmaker. allworth press, an imprint of skyhorse publishing, publishes a broad range of books on the visual and performing arts, with emphasis on the business of art. our titles cover subjects such as graphic design, theater, branding, fine art, photography, interior design, writing, acting, film, how to start careers, business and legal forms, business practices, and more. about the author tom schroeppel worked in film and video for more than thirty years as a freelance writer, director, cameraman, and editor. he also trained news crews at television stations in latin america and the caribbean.

This book will teach you how to make a movie that won't break your bank account. not only will it teach you how to make a movie for little or no money, but will teach you to potentially make a "box office hit" that won't require your first born, and two kidneys to do so. this book will take you through the whole process of filmmaking from pre-production, production, and post-production. you'll learn all the key elements in which are forgotten that always cost more money in the long run then originally planned. if you are a first time filmmaker, seasoned professional, or just someone with a dream to make a movie one day, then this book will change your life.

Lavishly produced and illustrated, cinematography covers the entire range of the profession. the book is not just a comprehensive guide to current professional practice; it goes beyond to explain the theory behind the practice, so you understand how the rules came about and when it's appropriate to break them. in addition, directors will benefit from the book's focus on the body of knowledge they should share with their director of photography.cinematography presents the basics and beyond, employing clear explanations of standard practice together with substantial illustrations and diagrams to reveal the real world of film production. recognizing that professionals know when to break the rules and when to abide by them, this book discusses many examples of fresh ideas and experiments in cinematography. covering the most up-to-date information on the film/digital interface, new formats, the latest cranes and camera support and other equipment, it also illustrates the older tried and true methods. *the definitive guide to cinematography*up-to-date coverage of technical topics, including high definition and digital imaging*full color throughout brings issues of color and light to life

Setting up your shots is a complete visual encyclopedia of creative camera set ups and moves every filmmaker and cinema fan will want to own. over 100 storyboards with simple descriptions have been especially designed for this book. they show filmmakers, home video buffs and cinema fans how to achieve an incredible number of effects, images and compositions. this book is presented in an elegant horizontal format to create the proper cinematic perspecitve. it also provides over 135 references to great shots from classic movies, including: titanic, blade runner, star wars, vertigo

The world of cinematography has changed more in the last few years than it has since 1929, when sound recording was introduced. new technology, new tools and new methods have revolutionized the art and craft of telling stories visually. while some aspects of visual language, lighting and color are eternal, shooting methods, workflow and cameras have changed radically. even experienced film artists have a need to update and review new methods and equipment. these changes affect not only the director of photography but also the director, the camera assistants, gaffers, and digital imaging technicians. cinematography: theory and practice covers both the artistry and craftsmanship of cinematography and visual storytelling. few art forms are as tied to their tools and technology as is cinematography. take your mastery of these new tools, techniques, and roles to the next level with this cutting-edge roadmap from author and filmmaker blain brown. whether you are a student of filmmaking, just breaking into the business, currently working in the industry and looking to move up to the next level, or an experienced professional who wants to update their knowledge of tools and techniques, this book provides both a basic introduction to these issues as well as more advanced and in-depth coverage of the subject. the companion website features additional material, including lighting demonstrations, basic methods of lighting, using diffusion and other topics.–back cover.

"simply put, harry mathias has done it again. "the death & rebirth of cinema" solidifies mathias's standing as the great translator of film-to-digital imaging technology." the world's cinema has mostly left behind its 100-year tradition of cinematography on film, and begins its search for a new visual foundation. what is next for cinema, is what this book is about. this book discusses the big questions of the future of cinematography, in a cinema that is increasing preoccupied with technology and not with artistic moving images. "just as he did with "electronic cinematography" 30 years ago, mathias cuts through the web of misinformation and lays out a brilliant method to gain control over new and constantly changing imaging technologies without losing sight of the valuable lessons cinematographers have taught us for over 100 years. harry mathias has the professional experience, technological savvy, and artistic integrity to connect the rich, foundational knowledge of past photographic systems to today's rapidly changing "technology of the month" attitude.–william mc – donald, ucla professor & chair – department of film, television and digital media, said about this book. – this book teaches the vital new cinematography skills that are needed to make great films in a digital cinema world. it covers lighting, lens selection, image control methods, and much more–whether using digital cinema or (photochemical) film with today's technology-driven cinema. – mathias is a very experienced film cinematographer, one who also is a pioneer of digital cinema cinematography. he outlines concrete plans to take the best path forward to a digital imaging future, without leaving behind the photographic skills and lighting arts of films of the past. – exploring the path from our past to the future, this book is not only for cinematographers; it is for anyone who cares about telling dramatic stories visually to film audiences. film directors, producers, production designers, art directors, editors, colorists, and film critics are all concerned with communicating cinematic images effectively to a theatre audience. often the issue today is not how can this be done effectively with digital cinema, but how can it be done in spite of all this new technology. in this book, mathias boldly sets out the plan to reach that cinematography of the future. – what is important to cinema is image quality and the art of cinematography–and that is why the major skills required are the same whether a director of photography is using film or digital cinema. this book is about making images the right way, regardless of the camera technology being used. – cinema is, after all, technology in the service of art, not the other way around…

This book covers both the artistry and craftsmanship of cinematography and visual storytelling. few art forms are as tied to their tools and technology as is cinematography. take your mastery of these new tools, techniques, and roles to the next level with this cutting-edge roadmap from author and filmmaker blain brown.this 4th edition has been thoroughly updated throughout to include detailed information on the latest lighting and camera equipment, as well as expanded and updated discussion on the following areas: shooting on a budget, color spaces with emphasis on the new uhd standards, the decision-making process in choosing what lights and equipment to use, considerations concerning power issues, safety and what electrical supply is needed for various types of lights, an examination of the cinematographer's role in preproduction, and much more. topics include: – visual storytelling- continuity and coverage- cameras and digital sensors- the tools and basics of film lighting- methods of shooting a scene- continuity and coverage- exposure- color- understanding digital images- using linear, gamma, and log video- image control and grading on the set- data management and the dit- optics and focus- camera movement- set operations- green screen, high speed, and other topics.

This illustrated guide shows filmmaking in action, chock full of factual information about actors and directors to the equipment and technology used throughout the ages. featuring appearances from hollywood heavyweights through time like george lucas, jean luc godard, agnes varda, akira kurosawa, and stanley kubrick, this book uses wonderfully detailed illustrations to illuminate film's past and to speculate on its exciting future!

Newly revised and updated, film lighting is an indispensible sourcebook for the aspiring and practicing cinematographer, based on extensive interviews with leading cinematographers and gaffers in the film industry.film lighting is a living, dynamic art influenced by new technologies and the changing styles of leading cinematographers. a combination of state-of-the-art technology and in-depth interviews with industry experts, film lighting provides an inside look at how cinematographers and film directors establish the visual concept of the film and use the lighting to create a certain atmosphere.kris malkiewicz uses firsthand material from the experts he interviewed while researching this book. among these are leading cinematographers dion beebe, russell carpenter, caleb deschanel, robert elswit, mauro fiore, adam holender, janusz kaminski, matthew libatique, rodrigo prieto, harris savides, dante spinotti, and vilmos zsigmond. this updated version of film lighting fills a growing need in the industry and will be a perennial, invaluable resource.

This book is a guide for practising and aspiring cinematographers and dops to digital cinematography essentials – from how to use the cameras to the rapidly emerging world of high definition cinematography and 24p technology.this book covers the `on-the-set' knowledge you need to know – its emphasis lies in practical application, rather than descriptions of technologies, so that in this book you will find usable `tools' and information to help you get the job done. from `getting the look' to lighting styles and ratios, what is needed for different types of shoots and the technical preparation required, this is a complete reference to the knowledge and skills required to shoot high end digital films. the book also features a guide to the sony dvw in-camera menus – showing how to set them up and how they work – adevice to save you time and frustration on set. paul wheeler is a renowned cinematographer/director of photography and trainer, he runs courses on digital cinematography at the national film & television school and has lectured on the royal college of art's ma course and at the london international film school. he has been twice nominated by bafta for a best cinematography award and also twice been the winner of the indie award for best digital cinematography.the first step-by-step guide to high end digital cameraworkkeep up to date with the very latest technology a practical `on-the-set' guide that helps you get your job done

This book is a guide for practising and aspiring cinematographers and dops to digital cinematography essentials – from how to use the cameras to the rapidly emerging world of high definition cinematography and 24p technology.this book covers the `on-the-set' knowledge you need to know – its emphasis lies in practical application, rather than descriptions of technologies, so that in this book you will find usable `tools' and information to help you get the job done. from `getting the look' to lighting styles and ratios, what is needed for different types of shoots and the technical preparation required, this is a complete reference to the knowledge and skills required to shoot high end digital films. the book also features a guide to the sony dvw in-camera menus – showing how to set them up and how they work – adevice to save you time and frustration on set. paul wheeler is a renowned cinematographer/director of photography and trainer, he runs courses on digital cinematography at the national film & television school and has lectured on the royal college of art's ma course and at the london international film school. he has been twice nominated by bafta for a best cinematography award and also twice been the winner of the indie award for best digital cinematography.the first step-by-step guide to high end digital cameraworkkeep up to date with the very latest technology a practical `on-the-set' guide that helps you get your job done

Great visual storytelling is possible on a minimal budget, but you have to spend a lot of energy thinking and planning.in understanding design in film production, author barbara freedman doyle demonstrates how to use production design, cinematography, lighting, and locations to create an effective and compelling visual story, even on the tightest of budgets. featuring in-depth interviews with production designers, set decorators, construction coordinators, cinematographers, costumers, and location managers talking about the techniques of their craft, it provides you with a feel for what everyone on the visual team does, how they think and plan, and how best to utilize the knowledge and skills they offer. this book guides you through how to find, secure, and manage the best locations, how to create and dress a set, and how to make old look new and new look old–all on a tight budget. with insights from experts at the top of their field, sharing how they plan for the real-world application of large-scale ideas, you'll be able to see ways to apply their techniques to your own smaller-scale productions. understanding design in film productionis a practical, hands-on guide for any aspiring filmmaker who wants to understand the basic principles of visual design in order to create exceptional looking films. ts at the top of their field, sharing how they plan for the real-world application of large-scale ideas, you'll be able to see ways to apply their techniques to your own smaller-scale productions. understanding design in film productionis a practical, hands-on guide for any aspiring filmmaker who wants to understand the basic principles of visual design in order to create exceptional looking films.

"the experience of watching films can begin with journeying to imaginary worlds, witnessing re-creations of history, observing stars in familiar and unfamiliar roles, and exploring the laughter, thrills, or emotions of different genres. understanding the full depth and variety of these experiences starts with that enjoyment. but it also requires knowledge of the technology, business, history, and visual language of cinema. the film experience brings all of this together in one comprehensive book. the film experience: an introduction aims to help students learn these film languages and synthesize them into a cohesive understanding of the medium that will, in turn, enhance their own film experiences. the new edition places special emphasis on representation throughout the history of film, highlighting voices and groups from the past that interact with the medium’s future. more than ever, the book places important historical developments in the modern, accessible context of ever-changing film technology, economics, and narrative. throughout the book (and online through its launchpad solo), perfect examples and digital tools bring this material to life"–publisher's website.

Selected by kirkus reviews as one of the best indie books of 2015. "this is a book that was waiting to happen, and fortunately it was tom roston who wrote it. russell and allison anders-who came of age during the reign of video rentals, and constructs a living, personal narrative of an era of cinema history which, though now gone, continues to shape film culture today. this expanded edition includes a foreward by acclaimed filmmaker richard linklater (boyhood) and a new appendix of conversations between roston and various actors, directors, producers, and programmers (including doug liman, paul dano, zoe kazan, angela robinson, tim league, burnie burns, and more) about the past and future of film distribution and culture.

Successfully design and implement lighting setups with lighting for film and digital cinematography with infotrac! coverage includes lighting, color control, texture, exposure technique, and elements that create image, ''look,'' and mood. with a balance of the aesthetic and technical aspects of lighting, this communication text helps you apply what you have learned with over 150 photographs, diagrams, and images from real films.

Successfully design and implement lighting setups with lighting for film and digital cinematography with infotrac! coverage includes lighting, color control, texture, exposure technique, and elements that create image, ''look,'' and mood. with a balance of the aesthetic and technical aspects of lighting, this communication text helps you apply what you have learned with over 150 photographs, diagrams, and images from real films.

There's more to being a dp than holding a light meter! with this book as your guide, you are on your way to learning not only about the equipment and technology, but also about the concepts and thought processes that will enable you to shoot professionally, efficiently, and with artistic mastery. a leading book in the field, cinematography has been translated into many languages and is a staple at the world's top film schools. lavishly produced and illustrated, it covers the entire range of the profession. the book is not just a comprehensive guide to current professional practice; it goes beyond to explain the theory behind the practice, so you understand how the rules came about and when it's appropriate to break them. in addition, directors will benefit from the book's focus on the body of knowledge they should share with their director of photography. cinematography presents the basics and beyond, employing clear explanations of standard practice together with substantial illustrations and diagrams to reveal the real world of film production. recognizing that professionals know when to break the rules and when to abide by them, this book discusses many examples of fresh ideas and experiments in cinematography. covering the most up-to-date information on the film/digital interface, new formats, the latest cranes and camera support and other equipment, it also illustrates the classic tried and true methods. new! a dvd and website features hours of video footage, offering key instruction in topics such as camera basics and essentials, lighting, shooting methods, and much more. topics include: – concepts of filmmaking – language of the lens – cinematic continuity – lighting for film, digital, and hd – exposure – hd cinematography and shooting – shooting in hd – image control and filters – bleach bypass processes – lighting as storytelling – shooting special effects – set procedures and other issues* full color illustrations bring issues of color and light to life* the definitive guide to cinematography, covering the full range of creative and technical issues in the field * new! a dvd and website with hours of video, demonstrating techniques and taking the reader behind the scenes on a professional shoot