How to Work with a Cinematographer on an Independent Film Shoot

If you are ready to shoot your dream independent film project, one of the most important people you will work with is your cinematographer. You need to find someone you can trust and rely on, someone you know is on the same page with you and your directorial vision.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. You will likely want to work with someone you know, or at least someone whose work you are familiar with. If you are starting from scratch, make sure you ask for a reel and references.
2. Once you have selected your cinematographer and that person has read the script, it is important for you to have many discussions to work out your vision and shoot planning. The cinematographer will likely have ideas and suggestions that may both conflict and enhance your vision. It is important to discuss each suggestion thoroughly.
3. Know what you want. You must know what you want and how you want to visually achieve it and be able to explain it to your cinematographer. If you have story-boards or are in the process of creating them, you should involve the cinematographer in the process as early as possible.
4. During the shoot you will be working side by side throughout the shoot. If you have done your work in the pre-production phases of the project, you and your cinematographer should be on the same page and everything should run smoothly.
5. Keep in mind that this person is ultimately in charge of making your vision come alive on the screen and that lines of communication between the two of you should be open and respectful.