Alana Irvine – Bull

22/01/24

Exploring cinematography and the development of cameras will help me as a filmmaker as it

will expand my knowledge and technicality on how to show off my skills throughout my
final production. I wanted to choose this area, as in my latest production I performed well in
my cinematography to create a dystopian short film, before filming I didn't expect to have the
shots I filmed. I was in shock with how much I loved using the scenic shots to create a better
storyline, I fell in love with making my productions enjoyable to watch where my viewers
can remember a specific scene from my production. I want to make my key moments show
using cinematography. Information I gather throughout learning new skills will make me gain
more confidence when using my camera as I will know how to improve the shots when first
filming instead of having to re shoot and re learn what I did wrong.

Preparing for my final project i will be using my research that has gone into this essay for
key factor when shooting cinematic shots and how lighting, angles can affect the journey of
filming. By using the skills and styles my practitioners use it will allow my production to
reach the top grade I need,

What is cinematography?

Cinematography is the art and technology of motion picture photography which involves
such techniques as the general composition of a scene including lighting of the set, location,
the choice of camera, lenses, filters. the camera angles matter when creating something that
needs to be cinematic. It is important to add this to any production as it involves transporting
viewers into different worlds and capture the essence of a narrative in ways that words
cannot describe. A movie series that really helps my point is Star Wars. Star Wars allowed a
new generation of film with new cameras, blockbusters and movie franchise. Gilbert Taylor
the cinematographer who worked on the franchise for years wanted the audience to feel
connected to not only the characters but the surroundings, he felt that knowing that if
he could create a world where people could feel was real then he had made it.
Cinematography creates lasting impressions and memorable moments that resonate
with audiences long after the film has ended, you are able to go home and speak to your
family and friends about that one scene that stuck with you, for example Interstellar.

For my next paragraph I will be talking about the cinematographer who changed the industry
with his remarkable use throughout his films Oppenheimer, the tenet, Dunkirk, interstellar
and many more. Hoyte van Hoytema, is a Dutch cinematographer whose knowledge on
making scenic shots is unremarkable. His sensibilities are as definitive as his willingness to
challenge the status quo, and he’s renowned for his ability to shoot characters in classical
ways while still pushing stylistic boundaries.

The cinematography in "Interstellar" is seriously amazing. Christopher Nolan and the

cinematographer, Hoyte van Hoytema, did a fantastic job. The movie, released in 2014, takes
you on this wild journey through space, and the visuals are just mind-blowing. They used
IMAX cameras, making everything feel so real, especially the vastness of space. The mix of
wide shots showing these huge cosmic landscapes and close-ups during intense moments is
just perfect. The play with light and shadows adds this cool depth to the story, making you
feel all the emotions. Basically, "Interstellar" is a visual masterpiece that takes science fiction
to a whole new level.

The development of film cameras holds paramount importance in the history of visual
storytelling and human expression. These devices have played a pivotal role in capturing and
preserving moments, creating a tangible record of our shared history. Film cameras
democratized photography, enabling a broader audience to engage in the art of image-
making. They provided a medium through which people could document their lives, cultures,
and environments. Additionally, the evolution of film cameras spurred advancements in
technology, pushing the boundaries of creativity and influencing other fields. From the
advent of roll film to the widespread use of 35mm film, each phase of development marked a
progression in accessibility and user-friendliness. While digital photography has largely taken
over, the legacy of film cameras persists as a testament to the evolution of visual
communication and the enduring impact of these devices on our collective narrative.

Film cameras have gone through a bunch of changes over the years. Back in the late 1800s,
people like George Eastman made things simpler with roll film. As the 1900s rolled in, big
names like Kodak and the 35mm film made photography way more popular. Then came cool
features like autofocus and built-in light meters in the mid-1900s, making cameras easier to
use. But in the 2000s, digital cameras took over, and now film cameras are more of a
nostalgic choice in today's photo scene.
Geraldine Brianne Murphy was a British cinematographer, she was the first female director
of photography for a major studio film and the first female member of the American society
of cinematographer guild. Murphy is often referred to as a pioneer for women in the film
industry. She created her own opportunities by taking advantages of small positions and
chances in the film industry such as runners, camera women and many more. This was her
way into ‘MALE DOMINATED” world of film. She inspires me as a young woman to have
her strength and courage to never give up on her dream of becoming something big and
inspiring other throughout her work in the industry.

Another huge cinematographer that made a huge impact was roger Deakins and his work on
blade runner.

Roger Deakins' contribution to "Blade Runner 2049" stands as an exemplary showcase of

cinematographic brilliance. Released in 2017 under the direction of Denis Villeneuve, the
film seamlessly integrates the aesthetic legacy of its predecessor with contemporary visual
sensibilities. Deakins' cinematography is distinguished by its meticulous attention to detail,
atmospheric lighting, and a sophisticated interplay of practical and visual effects. The
dystopian landscapes are captured with precision, immersing the viewer in a future that is
simultaneously recognizable and otherworldly. His nuanced use of colour, particularly the
juxtaposition of neon tones against the film's dark backdrop, significantly contributes to its
distinctive cyberpunk ambiance. The recognition of his exceptional work culminated in the
acquisition of the Academy Award for Best Cinematography in 2018, underscoring the
enduring impact of Deakins' artistic prowess on the cinematic landscape.

Finally I want to talk about how Cinematography is like the storyteller's secret weapon in
movies. It's not just about making things look good; it helps tell the story itself. The way the
camera moves, where it points, and even how things are lit can all add up to make you feel a
certain way or pay attention to something important. Close-ups can make you feel close to a
character, while wide shots show you the big picture. The speed of shots and angles can make
scenes feel fast or slow, tense or relaxed. So, cinematography isn't just about making a film
pretty; it's a big part of how the story gets told and how it makes you feel.
In conclusion, the journey of cameras throughout the years has created a development in
style, quality and love towards movies. Cinematography adds to the storyline/characters
visually especially when directors take a book and create a movie, as viewers can experience
the atmosphere through the camera. Camera development has made such a big impact on the
industry from the first video camera in 1925 to almost 100 years later where viewers can
experience colour and clear visibility of emotions, planets and different dystopian worlds.
Throughout my investigation over the last week, I have discovered facts and information to
help me finalise my idea for my final production. For example, the techniques that the
cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema who worked on Interstellar, Dunkirk and most recently
Oppenheimer these where three of the biggest films of all time creating a huge fan scheme
across the world. His techniques involve Placing light sources off-camera and de-
emphasizing light’s importance; never overexposing characters. This adds emphasis to
his productions. To expand and learn more about Hoyte van Hoytema I watched multiple
videos and interview of his work and how he stands out to different cinematographers. The
video under this shows his journey through becoming a cinematographer and how he found
his style, path to who he is today.