The Cinematography Podcast

By: The Cinematography Podcast
  • Summary

  • Art, Business, Craft and Philosophy of the Moving Image
    2024
    Show More Show Less
activate_Holiday_promo_in_buybox_DT_T2
activate_samplebutton_t1
Episodes
  • Creating the underworld of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: DP Haris Zambarloukos
    Oct 2 2024
    Beetlejuice Beetlejuice cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos loved the original 1988 Beetlejuice as a young adult. With Beetlejuice cinematographer Thomas Ackerman as his inspiration, Haris wanted to pay homage to the first movie while pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. “It was fun to make,” says Haris. “We really did enjoy ourselves, and it was a huge collaborative effort. It was a real delight and a pleasure to bring this to screen.” Haris chose to shoot Beetlejuice Beetlejuice on the Sony Venice 2. He likes the camera's ability to deliver a high-fidelity image with low-light sensitivity, which was perfectly suited for the film's atmospheric and often dimly lit settings. He worked closely with director Tim Burton to develop a meticulous lighting plan that would create an immersive and atmospheric environment for the actors. The spaces were designed to be functional in-camera, allowing for a more organic and spontaneous approach to lighting. The film's unique blend of live-action and animatronics was a high-stakes balancing act requiring exceptional coordination between the camera crew, lighting team, actors, and puppeteers. “On top of that, you've got Michael's incredible performance as Beetlejuice, which is full of energy,” says Haris. “And at that pace and that energy level, you only have so many takes. Then there's a camera move and 20 or 30 lighting cues just in a single 15 second take and that all has to work. So, in essence, we're all performing, and we don't want to let anyone down because the person that makes a mistake is the one that ruins it for everyone. I've never been on a film where we all worked in unison that way. But that's probably because I've only made one Tim Burton film, and there's no one else that works quite like him.” To create a distinctive visual language for the underworld, Haris used a palette of green and blue tones. Working with Burton, they pre-programmed RGB spectrum LED lighting for precise color control and creation of unique lighting patterns. The team was able to test and pre-light for a "repertoire" of looks that could be easily accessed and modified during filming. Haris used ARRI SkyPanel lights to control the time of day, creating a very theatrical, impressionistic effect of a lit sky outside the windows of the sets. Find Haris Zambarloukos: https://zambarloukos.com/ Instagram: @zambigram Hear our previous interview with Harris Zambarloukos: https://www.camnoir.com/ep162/ Sponsored by Hot Rod Cameras: https://hotrodcameras.com/ The Cinematography Podcast website: www.camnoir.com Facebook: @cinepod Instagram: @thecinepod Twitter: @ShortEndz
    Show More Show Less
    59 mins
  • The Thicket director Elliott Lester on his Western epic
    Sep 25 2024
    The Thicket is a gritty Western thriller that follows a young man's quest to rescue his kidnapped sister from the clutches of the notorious Cut Throat Bill (Juliette Lewis). With a ragtag group of outcasts and the aid of the skilled bounty hunter Reginald Jones (Peter Dinklage), he embarks on a perilous journey through the unforgiving Texas wilderness. Inspired by classic Westerns like The Searchers, The Revenant, and McCabe & Mrs. Miller, director Elliott Lester sought to create a visually striking and emotionally resonant film. “I look more at photography and art to inform the feeling, because the moment you shoot that very first frame, you're dictating how that movie's going to be,” says Elliott. “Where you put the camera, it informs how the performance is going to feel. There was always something intriguing to look at in each frame of the movie.” The Thicket was backed by the streaming service Tubi and filmed in Alberta, Canada, during the harsh winter months. The cast and crew faced extreme conditions, including temperatures well below freezing. Despite the challenges, Elliott and his team managed to capture the rugged beauty of the wilderness and create a sense of authenticity. Cinematographer Guillermo Garza played a crucial role in bringing Elliott's vision to life. Their collaboration was marked by a deep understanding of naturalism and a commitment to creating visually stunning shots. "One of the reasons I collaborated with him was because he had an amazing understanding of naturalism," Elliott says. "He's a pretty remarkable DP." With no formal film school training, Elliott worked his way up through the ranks of music video production back in its heyday. His experience as a first assistant director on films like American History X provided him with valuable experience and the desire to become a director. "I was obsessive about directing," he admits. "Once I got my teeth into something, I was like a dog with a bone." Find Elliott Lester: Instagram: @elliottlester88 Sponsored by Hot Rod Cameras: https://hotrodcameras.com/ The Cinematography Podcast website: www.camnoir.com Facebook: @cinepod Instagram: @thecinepod Twitter: @ShortEndz
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 17 mins
  • Shotcraft: A Masterclass in Cinematography with Jay Holben
    Sep 18 2024
    Shotcraft: Lessons, Tips & Techniques on the Art and Science of Cinematography is a new book by veteran cinematographer, producer and director Jay Holben. Shotcraft offers a comprehensive guide to the art and science of filmmaking. Based on his popular column in American Cinematographer, the book offers insightful essays and practical tips that cover a wide range of topics, from technical fundamentals to creative storytelling. Jay emphasizes the importance of understanding the technical aspects of cinematography while also nurturing one's artistic vision. He encourages readers to experiment with different techniques, test, try and learn about the latest technology, and build a strong network within the industry. Key takeaways: Master the fundamentals: A solid grasp of technical knowledge, including lighting, exposure, and camera movement, is essential for successful cinematography. Develop your artistic eye: Cinematography is as much about creativity as it is about technical skill. Experiment with different styles and techniques to find your unique voice. Build a strong network: Networking with other filmmakers can provide valuable opportunities, mentorship, and support. Create a compelling reel: A well-crafted reel is a powerful tool for showcasing your skills and attracting potential clients, especially before you have agency representation. You can buy Shotcraft: Lessons, Tips & Techniques on the Art and Science of Cinematography on Jay's website: http://jayholben.com/shotcraftbook Jay has a companion book to Shotcraft coming out next month. It covers tips and stories from the top cinematographers in the world such as Roger Deakins, Harris Savites, Janusz Kamiński, and Greig Frazier. Find Jay Holben: http://jayholben.com/ Instagram: @jayholben **WIN A COPY OF SHOTCRAFT! Like, Follow and Comment on our post for this week's episode on Instagram, Facebook or Threads and we will pick a winner** *Winner must be within the continental U.S.!* Sponsored by Hot Rod Cameras: https://hotrodcameras.com/ Sponsored by ARRI: https://www.arri.com/en The Cinematography Podcast website: www.camnoir.com Facebook: @cinepod Instagram: @thecinepod Twitter: @ShortEndz
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 10 mins

What listeners say about The Cinematography Podcast

Average customer ratings
Overall
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • 5 Stars
    1
  • 4 Stars
    0
  • 3 Stars
    1
  • 2 Stars
    0
  • 1 Stars
    0
Performance
  • 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • 5 Stars
    1
  • 4 Stars
    0
  • 3 Stars
    0
  • 2 Stars
    1
  • 1 Stars
    0
Story
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • 5 Stars
    1
  • 4 Stars
    0
  • 3 Stars
    1
  • 2 Stars
    0
  • 1 Stars
    0

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Sort by:
Filter by:
  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

The Best Podcast for Aspiring Cinematographers

I've been listening to these podcasts while traveling the UK, going from job to job. For anyone with a passion for cinematography, this is the podcast for you.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    2 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    3 out of 5 stars

Amazing interviews, Terrible woke lefty politics

Really Enjoy the interview segments, but Ben Rock whenever given the chance has to rant on about his personal politics which has taken over Hollywood and destroying a lot of great movies. Pigeon holing anyone who disagrees with his views as misogynists. Which if he stepped out into the world and asked any regular person that's not in the movie industry whether perhaps the pushing of woke politics in every movie, casting people purely because of their race/gender/sexuality is getting old fast. He'd have a shock.
It seems given any chance to speak Ben especially will somehow say something that is a dig to anyone who is not on the left, or over there a democrat.
Saying that, I've been recently skipping through his ramblings and getting to the juice which is the interviews. Where thankfully, they don't bring up any politics, and it's all about what the podcast is ACTUALLY ABOUT... CINEMATOGRAPHY.

It would be 5 stars all around if not for these reasons. Great sound, editing, and guests.
two other things,. Please try shorten your questions and stop interrupting them when they haven't completely finished answering the first question. If you think of something write it down and come back to it. The best interviews and answers come from listening and being quiet. yes you have a limited time with them, but relax, I'd rather 1 fully fledge answer than 3 or 4 half complete.
2. I wish the interviews could be longer, or try not to waste the limited time they have with them by asking them to tell us all about their history, what they are known for. A simple Wikipedia before the show tells us where they are from and all the films they have done etc..OR do that before the interview rather than waste time going over it with them. I only say this because I care and there's so much gold in these interviews.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!