Cinematography & Lighting

Course Description

This workshop combines theoretical and practical elements of cinematography with special emphasis on cultivating a film sensibility. While learning techniques of studio and location lighting, students also study composition and coverage, and how movement, angles, and placement create a cinematographic style. In this class students will learn the tools, hardware, and technology used in the industry, as well as work through the aesthetic decisions that contribute to how a story is told. Looking at the special advantages, particular limitations and collaborative possibilities of both digital and film cinematography, the class will address issues of integrated media. Exercises will include: essential lighting and grip equipment, hard light vs. soft light, location shooting, color temperature and fluorescent lights, exterior lighting and control of natural light, covering a scene and continuity from a cinematographer, point of view, and camera and actor choreography. Practical tests and scenes are shot using digital video.