Cinematographer's manual? at DVinfo.net

Aaron Koolen · September 16th, 2002, 05:47 PM

Hi all, there is this manual that I've heard about called (I think) the "American Cinematographers Handbook". I was wondering how useful it is for DV stuff? I'd like to learn all the ins and outs and use the charts for focus and depth of field that I heard are in it, but if it's not applicable to DV then I won't bother. One day I'll move to film, but only after I've actually secured funding for a project and know what I'm doing a bit more ;)

Cheers
Aaron

Frank Granovski · September 16th, 2002, 09:34 PM

I can't give you an answer but there is 1 book that's considered a cinematographer's bible. Go to:

*deadlink*

for the name of the book and a little about it.

Charles Papert · September 16th, 2002, 09:45 PM

Aaron:

The newer editions of the AC manual do have expanded digital sections, but it is still primarily film oriented. That said, it has plenty of information about shooting and lighting that may be of use. Worth checking out first before buying, perhaps!

B. Moore · September 17th, 2002, 10:06 AM

If you're looking for technique, one of the best is "The Five C's of Cinematography" by joseph V. Mascelli. Although the copy right is 1965 the basics never really change. I bought my copy used, but in perfect condition.
It covers:

camera angles
continuity
cutting
close-ups
and
composition

These are the nuts 'n bolts of the great one's.

I have found that, in addition, experimentation, breaking some rules, and obsevation will teach you a lot.

Since every situation is different, you have to develope a 6th sense as to what looks right, gives you the desired result, and will be interesting to your audience.

Depth of field , lighting, and audio are very important... PRACTICE

Bruce

Aaron Koolen · September 17th, 2002, 02:58 PM

Hi Bruce. I actually have that book on order from amazon at the moment, and I'm desparately hanging out for it. I looked at it in the bookstore here, but didn't get it and when I went back it was gone so ordered from overseas (Actually turned out cheaper anyway). Practice is something I know I have to do. Although I'll only be working with DV (for the first long while at least) I know there is a lot to learn about the art that doesn't rely on media type.

I gotta keep writing those short scripts! :)

Cheers

Kyle "Doc" Mitchell · September 17th, 2002, 07:40 PM

Hello Aaron:

Long time no talk. Getting AC's Handbook may be a good idea anyways. Learning about light is essential. Plus, understanding the components of how film works has helped me greatly in learning about making video look better. Seriously consider getting the manual.

Regards,

Kyle "Doc" Mitchell

September 16th, 2002, 05:47 PM	#1
Aaron Koolen Trustee Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Auckland, New Zealand Posts: 1,727	Cinematographer's manual? Hi all, there is this manual that I've heard about called (I think) the "American Cinematographers Handbook". I was wondering how useful it is for DV stuff? I'd like to learn all the ins and outs and use the charts for focus and depth of field that I heard are in it, but if it's not applicable to DV then I won't bother. One day I'll move to film, but only after I've actually secured funding for a project and know what I'm doing a bit more ;) Cheers Aaron

September 16th, 2002, 09:45 PM	#3
Charles Papert Wrangler Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 6,810	Aaron: The newer editions of the AC manual do have expanded digital sections, but it is still primarily film oriented. That said, it has plenty of information about shooting and lighting that may be of use. Worth checking out first before buying, perhaps! __________________ Charles Papert www.charlespapert.com

September 16th, 2002, 09:34 PM	#2
Frank Granovski Outer Circle Join Date: May 2002 Location: Hope, BC Posts: 7,524	I can't give you an answer but there is 1 book that's considered a cinematographer's bible. Go to: deadlink for the name of the book and a little about it.

September 17th, 2002, 10:06 AM	#4
B. Moore Major Player Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Glendale, AZ Posts: 181	If you're looking for technique, one of the best is "The Five C's of Cinematography" by joseph V. Mascelli. Although the copy right is 1965 the basics never really change. I bought my copy used, but in perfect condition. It covers: camera angles continuity cutting close-ups and composition These are the nuts 'n bolts of the great one's. I have found that, in addition, experimentation, breaking some rules, and obsevation will teach you a lot. Since every situation is different, you have to develope a 6th sense as to what looks right, gives you the desired result, and will be interesting to your audience. Depth of field , lighting, and audio are very important... PRACTICE Bruce

September 17th, 2002, 02:58 PM	#5
Aaron Koolen Trustee Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Auckland, New Zealand Posts: 1,727	Hi Bruce. I actually have that book on order from amazon at the moment, and I'm desparately hanging out for it. I looked at it in the bookstore here, but didn't get it and when I went back it was gone so ordered from overseas (Actually turned out cheaper anyway). Practice is something I know I have to do. Although I'll only be working with DV (for the first long while at least) I know there is a lot to learn about the art that doesn't rely on media type. I gotta keep writing those short scripts! :) Cheers

September 17th, 2002, 07:40 PM	#6
Kyle "Doc" Mitchell Doconomus Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Raleigh, NC, USA Posts: 100	Hello Aaron: Long time no talk. Getting AC's Handbook may be a good idea anyways. Learning about light is essential. Plus, understanding the components of how film works has helped me greatly in learning about making video look better. Seriously consider getting the manual. Regards, Kyle "Doc" Mitchell