WEEK 1 in Cinematography: Framing My Learning Agreement

Welcome to my blog. This week's post will explore my thoughts on my learning agreement, the skills audit, and my primary learning goals. Along my journey, I acquaint myself with industry-level cameras and share my aspirations for mastering the art of visual storytelling.

Setting the Scene: My Learning Agreement

I've been thinking long and hard about my learning agreement as any passionate learner would. What exactly do I hope to achieve in this cinematography specialism? How can I make the most of this opportunity? Well, it all begins with setting clear goals.

One of my primary learning goals is to harness cinematography's power to tell a compelling story that's more effective than relying solely on dialogue. Having previously dabbled in directing, I've realised the immense potential of visual storytelling, and I'm eager to take it to the next level.

Exploring the Cinematic Arsenal

But before I can master the art of storytelling through visuals, I need to get comfortable with the tools of the trade. This week, I got hands-on experience with some industry-level cameras, including the Sony FX9, Sony FS5, Panasonic BS1H, and Canon C70.

Getting to know these new cameras was like stepping into a whole new world for someone who had previously only worked with the FS5 and its array of prime lenses. It was incredibly enlightening to compare my previous experience with the FS5 to my newfound fascination with the FX9. Each camera has unique nuances, and I'm eager to explore them further.

Learning from the Masters: Roger Deakins

As I delve deeper into cinematography, I recognise the importance of learning from the best in the business. This week's task on my journey is to dive into the work of the legendary cinematographer Roger Deakins.

Why is he considered one of the best in the field? What techniques and strategies does he employ to enhance world-building and storytelling in his films? These are the questions I aim to answer. By dissecting Deakins' work, I hope to gain valuable insights to incorporate into my budding cinematography career.

The Academic Pursuit

I've also begun exploring academic cinematography resources to supplement my practical experiences. One book that has caught my eye is "Cinematography: Theory and Practice for Cinematographers and Directors" by Blain Brown. It promises to provide me with a solid foundation in the various aspects of cinematography.