A digital cinematographer operates digital video equipment to create videos and movies. They determine scene lighting and camera operations, and may also be proficient in editing, computer imaging, and directing assistance. They work closely with directors and camera operators, and may also assist with directing or script writing. Digital cinematography requires familiarity with various styles of digital video cameras, lighting, audio quality, and design software. Education is offered through specialized training courses or related degrees obtained at a technical school.
A digital cinematographer operates digital video equipment and thus helps create videos and movies in a digital format. These individuals typically find employment in the film industry. Specific duties include determining scene lighting and camera operations. Digital cinematographers can also be proficient in editing, computer imaging, and directing assistance.
Cinema is a team effort that includes many employees and crew, including the director and cinematographer. A director serves as a kind of conduit, instructing the crew in positioning, prop and camera movement, and the like. In a sense, the cinematographer is the director’s paintbrush, bringing his vision into a physical reality. As such, individuals in this discipline construct and arrange individual scenes and films to the satisfaction of the director.
Camera operators also work closely with a digital cinematographer. Just as the cinematographer realizes the director’s vision, the camera people help fulfill the cinematographer’s vision. The camera people actually shoot sets and scenes, but the cinematographer must first study a script and plan out the details of the scene. Ideas for this layout can be derived from a written script or from production notes.
On some television or film sets, the digital cinematographer may be asked to take on different roles. For example, he or she could work with editors and technical staff to compile a final product. In some cases, individuals employed in this career field may assist with directing or even script writing. The director of photography can also serve as the main camera operator.
The main difference between the work of a digital cinematographer and the work of a traditional cinematographer is that the former does not create films in the traditional sense. Instead, images are created and preserved with a more advanced electronic process that may include computerized disks and flash memory. Video recording in this format is generally considered higher quality and clearer because it uses a discrete signal that is less prone to interference from external environmental factors.
Digital cinematography can also require more post-production work. Factors such as lighting, color adjustment, and zoom are important considerations in cinematography, and many of the smaller details are addressed in the editing phase after the film is completed. Digitally filmed works are most easily placed into computer software programs that can manipulate images in a variety of ways. In many digital films, computer-generated digital images are added to the physically filmed stills during this process. The digital cinematographer can play a role in these areas.
Individuals must possess a skill set to be successful in cinematography, particularly digital cinematography. For one thing, familiarity with various styles of digital video cameras is a definite plus. A working knowledge of filmmaking factors such as lighting and audio quality is also beneficial. Because many digital productions rely on digitized special effects, a potential cinematographer must have a deep understanding of design software and computer use as a whole.
Cinematography education is offered through specialized training courses or related degrees obtained at a technical school. Degrees may be available in cinematography or with an associated name such as film or video production. A growing number of schools also offer concentrated degrees in Digital Cinematography. Once employed in the video industry, a digital cinematographer can pursue several career paths. A potential client might focus on editing, distributing, or preserving material. Some people can reach the director or even the producer.
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