Cinematography is the art of photography and visual storytelling in a motion picture. Cinematography comprises all on-screen visual elements, including lighting, framing, composition, camera motion, camera angles, film selection, lens choices, depth of field, zoom, focus, color, exposure, and filtration. Cinematography sets and supports the overall look and mood of a film’s visual narrative. Each visual element that appears on screen can serve and enhance the story, so it is the cinematographer’s responsibility to ensure that every element is cohesive and support the story. This course will examine the art of cinematography in movies from the early days of silent cinema to the most recent films, and examine the careers and films of the most celebrated of these visual artists. Plentiful film clips will make this an unforgettable experience.
