ASC Cinematographers Give Advice
The SAA Winners also got to go to the American Society of Cinematographers Clubhouse this week. First came a delicious lunch, with lots and lots of mingling:
After the yummy lunch, an incredible collection of legendary cinematographers sat down and answered a question from every winner and their DP guest. The panel was:
Christopher Baffa
Stephen H. Burum
Haskell Wexler
Victor J. Kemper
Stephen Lighthill
Karl Walter Lindenlaub
Isidore Mankofsky
Bill Neil
Daryn Okada
Woody Omens
On DP/Direction Relationship:
- The relationship between the director and cinematographer sets the whole mood of the set.
- There must be respect between the director and cinematographer. There must be give and take.
- If both are in tune with the heart of the story, both director and cinematographer should reach similar conclusions.
- Sometimes an agreeable relationship between director and DP will create a dull film and a turbulent one creates an interesting film.
- It’s great when a director has technical knowledge but it isn’t necessary.
- If you want to direct, direct. Nothing worse than a DP who secretly wants to direct.
- It’s the responsibility of the cinematographer to make the best movie possible. Sometimes you need to break things to the director. But do it tactfully.
On Shots:
- Simpler is always better.
- Preparation, preparation, preparation.
- Lighting should imitate what you see in life but keep it consistent.
- If a shot is distracting, it’s wrong.
- Save what you collect in life as inspiration for shots.
On Actors:
- Camera must protect the actors.
- In intimate scenes, kick non-essential crew out.
- Be in tune with what the actors need.
On Working:
- Most important factors when deciding whether you should take a job are good story? good people? and how’s the money?
- Take all sorts of jobs. It’ll give you an interesting career.
- Don’t burn bridges.
