Shooting Like a Cinematographer: Tips to Elevate Your Video Production
There’s a lot of buzz around achieving that elusive “cinematic look” in video production. Some attribute it to using large sensors, anamorphic lenses, or applying LUTs during post-production. But capturing a truly cinematic feel involves much more than just these technical aspects.
In a detailed video, filmmaker Alex Zarfati of Timethread Studios offers an in-depth guide on how to approach shooting with a cinematic mindset. He breaks down the process, covering everything from storytelling to shot execution, and shares valuable tips that can elevate your work.
Story First, Always
At the heart of any cinematic production is the story you want to tell. Whether you’re crafting a YouTube video or a feature film, your narrative should engage the audience and take them on a journey. A compelling story pulls viewers in, making them emotionally invested in the outcome. Achieving this means carefully setting the scene, both figuratively and literally.
The story informs every aspect of your production. It determines the mood, tone, pacing, blocking, set design, lighting—everything. Imagine watching a cooking show that’s shot like a horror film. While it might be entertaining, it’s clear how crucial it is for the visual style to align with the story’s intent.
Are you aiming to create drama and tension? Or perhaps you want to evoke a feeling of warmth and comfort? Maybe you just want to keep the audience hooked, eager to see what happens next. The story guides all these decisions.
The Details Make the Difference
Creating a cinematic shot involves much more than simply placing lights on stands and hitting record. It encompasses everything from set design and wardrobe choices to lighting techniques, camera positioning, and movement.
For instance, achieving a gritty, realistic look isn’t just about applying a grungy LUT. As Alex Zarfati illustrates, the set design, along with strategic use of practical lighting and color, plays a significant role in conveying the desired atmosphere before you even reach the color grading stage.
That said, color grading remains a vital tool. It’s essential for unifying your footage, ensuring each clip feels like part of a cohesive whole. Additionally, color and saturation can enhance the mood of your scenes and help differentiate between various parts of your story.
A classic example is “The Matrix,” where scenes set inside the Matrix have a distinct green tint, while those in the “real world” feature a more natural, albeit dark, color palette.
Conclusion
Alex Zarfati’s video is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their cinematic shooting skills. It’s packed with insights that can help you approach your projects with the eye of a cinematographer rather than just a videographer. If you’re serious about leveling up your craft, it’s definitely worth a watch.