Critical Reading

[Ben Norton]

With plans to purchase a Scarlet and begin to transition from hobby to serious….what books would you consider are critical reading?

I was given Mike Figgis’ Digital Film Making for Christmas and found it nice and light. What would you recommend next?

 

[D Fuller]

Since you're here, I'll suggest you start by reading this thread: Ask David Mullen ANYTHING and then read any book that's mentioned in it.

 

[David Kruta]

Since you're here, I'll suggest you start by reading this thread: Ask David Mullen ANYTHING and then read any book that's mentioned in it.

I wholeheartedly second this suggestion. And once you're done with that thread, read these books by Blain Brown:

Motion Picture and Video Lighting (my fav)
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/02..._m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=16MAJM4KWS8W0HG77A1W

Cinematography
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/02..._m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=16MAJM4KWS8W0HG77A1W

 

[Cüneyt Kaya]

ehm, read a lot of screenplays and try to understand why they work or dont work.
work with actors...

and one more thing, this is the hardest to learn:
how to communicate what is in your head...
trust your instincts, but be flexible enough to listen
ask yourself questions all the time....how does this cast affect the story...does the story work the way it was intended with this cast, should you rewrite it, change the actor, but how does this new face change the balance between the rest of the actors...etc, etc.

 

[Andrew Wilding]

Film Lighting by K. Malkiewicz, Masters of Light: Conversations with Contemporary Cinematographers by Dannis Schaefer and Larry Salvato, Set Lighting Technician's Handbook by Harry Box, and the ASC Manual are the essentials, in my eyes. I find myself returning to these books constantly...

 

[Stephen Strangways]

A classic that is still relevant today:

The Five C's of Cinematography: Motion Picture Filming Techniques
Joseph V. Mascelli

 

[Charles Angus]

Hobby to serious what?

You're getting recommendations for Cinematography and Directing...

 

[R.ChilD]

I've read some of the book listed and they are great! I also believe the "Ask David Mullen" thread could stay atop the best sellers list repackaged as "Q&A with Cinematographer David Mullen"

I have a question! I cant seem to find any books that go into detail about blocking and use of camera movements! Any recommendations?

 

[Ben Norton]

Thanks for the responses. I will get started!

Hobby to serious what?

You're getting recommendations for Cinematography and Directing...

Good question. I have been offered a place to do an MA in Directing Film and Television. My intention at the moment is small scale documentary work with a hands on everything approach. I am an extreme sports fanatic, so a dream would be to merge these 2 worlds.

It is interesting in understanding the larger scale side of things too (and the history behind it)......as this has obviously impacted the way things are today.