How Cinematographers Engage Audiences And Bring Images To Life Through Lighting And Camera Equipment

29th October 2015

Since its inception, cinematography has evolved considerably. With new innovations in camera equipment making it far easier for professionals to produce works that draw movie goers in, the syntax and flow of movies themselves have invariably changed as well. The efforts of the cinematographer are commonly aimed at evoking a sense of realism and participation. People who watch films with award-winning cinematography are able to connect with protagonists and empathize with their emotions in a manner that transcends the flat screen. Following are several ways that professionals like steve wynn las vegas hotel CEO turned cinematographer breathe action and life into moving images.

Cinematographers Oversee Lighting And Camera Departments

The cinematographer is a behind-the-scenes director of sorts, given that he or she is in charge of orchestrating and coordinating the actions and activities of all cameramen and lighting specialists on set. While this professional does not command the movements of actors, he or she will still have a considerable impact on the look and feel of the overall production. By guiding and directing camera and lighting teams, the cinematographer has the best ability to evoke the specific moods that are intended throughout the script.

Strengthening Plot Lines Through The Incorporation Of Symbolism

The best movies contain layers upon layers of symbolism. They are complex works with vast numbers of deeply hidden meanings. These works can be watched multiple times with each viewing producing a new and startling revelation. In many instances, this is the result of cinematographic mastery. A film that is meant to have a dark, brooding or somber atmosphere, will often attain this look through the strategic use of camera equipment and the manipulation of light. Moreover, efforts to alter equipment use and lighting in conjunction with plot, give cinematographers the ability to incorporate symbolism in a slew of subtle ways. As a result, the depth and meaning of the story is not lost behind the looks and artistry of the actors or the primary scene props.

Using Cinematographic Syntax

Cinematographic syntax has been honed and expanded over time to match the new abilities of camera equipment, the development of new artistic styles within the world of cinema and the expectations of viewers. With the ultimate goals of these efforts being both realism and audience engagement, it is not surprising that some of the best cinematographers throughout the movie industry hold the majority of their professional experience in other areas. An in-depth understanding of the fast-paced and often brutal environment of the Las Vegas strip produces sentiments that translate well on screen.

Cinematographers continue to use long-held strategies for engagement and the revelation of plot, including long shots, wide shots, close-ups and extreme close-ups among others to evoke the desired emotions. Lighting has been and continues to be used to lend ambiance to otherwise basic movie sets so that audiences can feel the humor, sorrow, anger or joy that characters are experiencing. While directors and producers play integral roles in honing the overall production, cinematographers are often overlooked for their vast contributions to cinematic works.

Corey is an all round tech guru who has worked at some major blue chip companies. He started Poweronemedia to share his views and knowledge with the rest of the blogging world.