Cinematography: storytelling with the camera

Do you know the saying "A picture is worth a thousand words"? Then you've already learned the first basics of storytelling in film. A film isn't created simply by filming events; different factors come together that make it possible to tell a story. Kamera Express explains what cinematography is all about.

What is cinematography?

Cinematography is about capturing images that together make a high-quality film. If you want to shoot a film, it's not just about recording with a film camera and sharing the footage; it's a process in which various factors, such as lighting, lens, angle, position and so on, are taken into account.

With editing and the use of technical software, a film can be created that makes it all the way to the big screen. The key person here is the camera operator or cinematographer, also known as the specialist in cinematography. In fact, a large part of the budget goes to the cinematographer when you want to make a professional film.

In cinematography, the focus isn't on documenting events; what matters is the art behind it. This field, which is based on professional photography, not only serves artistic purposes but is also used in scientific fields.

What is the difference between cinematography and videography?

The term cinematography is often wrongly equated with videography. Just because both involve recording images with a camera doesn't mean they are the same technique. While cinematography involves an artistic and creative process, videography refers to simply recording images, which are then often shared on social media or via streaming.

Videography can be part of cinematography, but as a standalone method it is less complex. Above all, it serves a different purpose. Cinematography plays an important role in filmmaking, while videography is generally used by bloggers and influencers.

Storytelling with the camera

If you want to make a film and storytelling is the key aspect, there are a few factors to consider that define the work of a good cinematographer. So that you too can enjoy a professional result, we introduce the different factors you should definitely keep in mind.

Camera positions and angles

Depending on where the camera is placed, the effect on the viewer differs. If you film the same subject once from a distance and once up close, you see the same subject, but the story being told is different. The cinematographer should therefore be aware of the significance of the camera position and the associated angle.

It's important to understand that it's not just the quality of the image that matters, but above all the storytelling in the film – in other words, the effect. Factors such as light or angle can be adjusted accordingly with the right equipment. The angle not only determines the perspective, but can also help compensate for shortcomings.

Close-ups/long shots and their effect

Once the cinematographer has chosen the position of the camera, that doesn't mean it has to stay there for the whole film. Each scene requires its own position. While long shots usually show a setting, often from a bird's-eye view, close-ups often focus on faces.

Long shots are usually found at the beginning of films. They draw the viewer in and invite them to immerse themselves in the action. Close-ups, on the other hand, can convey emotions. In an intense scene, an extreme close-up can have an even greater effect.

Camera movements and static shots

Whether the cinematographer keeps the camera still or chooses movement also depends on the effect to be achieved. While the viewer simply watches a film, movement can intensify the effect of the action.

For example, if you want to show a scene full of energy, as in action films, camera movements in which the camera is set in motion can reinforce the effect. Static shots, on the other hand, are suitable for capturing calm events and emotionally intense moments.

Popular cameras for cinematography

Anyone who is into cinematography and has set themselves the goal of making a film knows that the right camera plays an important role. Professional video cameras are ideal for TV recordings, documentaries or concert recordings. Sony and Canon are currently among the leading brands in this category.

A deciding factor in your choice is image quality. The camera should definitely support HD as well as MP4. Being able to capture many frames in a short time helps guarantee better quality. Built-in filters are also an advantage. Another aspect is image stabilisation. Professional cameras have sensors that already contribute greatly to stabilisation and thus to image quality. Professional video cameras are therefore best suited for cinematography.

Tripods, monitors & gimbals as useful additions

Even if you have a camera that already has image stabilisation, the right accessories shouldn't be missing from your kit. Considering that the cinematographer has to change position or adjust the angle, getting a perfect image is a real challenge. Tripods, monitors and gimbals can therefore be useful additions.

There are different types of tripods, chosen according to your needs. Tripods provide a lot of stability, while monopods allow movement and quick changes of position. Special video tripods help guarantee smooth and stable footage.

It's also worth choosing the right monitors. There are monitors like a computer screen, which make image editing and cutting the film easier, and so-called field monitors, which are attached directly to the camera. Field monitors have the advantage that you can see the image better while recording and make changes if necessary.

If you want to make your kit even more professional, choose a gimbal. This is a stabilisation system that is attached to the camera. The movable head makes movements smoother and more fluid. Camera shake and vibrations are prevented, so the quality improves significantly.

Lenses

In cinematography, the cinematographer is responsible for choosing the equipment. Not only the camera plays an important role, but also the accessories. Lenses are crucial for high-quality footage. Let's take a look at which lens to choose for filming.

Which lenses are useful for cinematography?

There are different types of lenses. They differ in focal length as well as in features. Cinematography usually uses prime lenses, which have a fixed focal length. Zoom lenses are deliberately avoided, as in many cases they involve compromises in quality.

Which lenses for wide shots, medium shots and close-ups?

Even though finding the right lens among the huge selection may sound complicated, there are a few guidelines you can follow. For a wide shot, choose lenses with a focal length of 21–28 mm. Medium shots are possible with lenses with a focal length of 50 mm. For a close-up, also called a portrait shot, lenses with a focal length of 85–105 mm are preferable.

Filters and aperture, speed boosters and adapters as additional equipment

Professional equipment also includes filters for your lens. The type you choose depends on the purpose and the effect you want to achieve. There are UV filters, polarising filters, ND filters and many more. They remove reflections, prevent interference from light and UV radiation and allow light to be filtered. The aperture should also be mentioned in this context, as it controls how much light the camera takes in.

A speed booster can have a big effect. It's easy to attach and shortens the effective focal length of the lens, which increases its light-gathering ability. Various adapters are available, so you can equip any camera with a speed booster.

Lighting

Light is crucial for the mood and is what makes storytelling in film possible in the first place. Viewers are often unaware of this factor, but if you pay close attention, you'll notice that romantic films and comedies are usually brighter, while darkness dominates in dramas or thrillers. Lighting is therefore part of the staging and can create mood or underline the action.

So lighting isn't just about quality; above all, the content has to be taken into account. There are various options for achieving an optimal result.

High-key lighting for "happy" scenes

High-key lighting is a lighting style that is particularly suited to relaxed and cheerful scenes. Brightness is the focus. A bright background, bright light, low contrast and soft light are characteristic of this style. High-key lighting isn't just about bright lighting, but also about choosing the camera angle so that hardly any shadows appear. Sometimes it's even described as overexposure.

Low-key lighting for "oppressive" scenes

The opposite of high-key lighting is low-key lighting. Dark tones, lots of shadows and high contrasts characterise this style. It can underline oppressive scenes, suspenseful plots and a profound story. With low-key lighting, an underexposed setting is created deliberately.

Other lighting techniques and suitable equipment

Lighting usually involves a main light, known as the key light. Even though people often talk about filming in natural light, this is somewhat difficult, as we can't influence nature and the situation can change by the hour.

For the key light you need a light source, such as a special LED lamp that provides silent light. Keep in mind, however, that the key light can also cast shadows, which is why a so-called fill light is needed. The fill light is usually set up on the opposite side to the key light.

While on the one hand you try to lighten shadows, on the other hand it may be necessary to create shadows. For this you use reflector umbrellas, positioned at the desired angle. Flash can also help you achieve better quality. There are various options for this, such as studio flashes, speedlights or ring flashes.

Camera work: find your style

There are different forms of camera work. These include the over-the-shoulder shot, filmed from behind a person's head and shoulder. When the camera is tilted to the side, this is called a Dutch angle. Vertical and horizontal pans create movement. Whether the cinematographer follows the movement or prefers to film from a stable position is up to them.

What matters is that you feel comfortable as a cinematographer and adapt your camera work to your skills and judgement. Everyone has their own style, so with a little practice and time you'll find yours too.

What else should you keep in mind in cinematography?

You now have all your equipment ready and would love to start filming right away, but there are a few more things to keep in mind that are crucial for the quality of the result.

If you're into cinematography, you have to be flexible and spontaneous. That's why you need to know the script by heart. Only then can filming run smoothly and without interruptions. The location should also be chosen carefully, as it forms the backdrop. Take a close look at the conditions and bring props.

The camera work is in your hands and you're responsible for the actual recording, but filming is led by the director. This means you should make agreements in advance and stay in constant communication. The same applies to your relationship with the actors. Pay attention to their needs, direct them clearly and explain your expectations at the start. The aim is to show them in their best light.

Of course, you mustn't exceed the budget either. There's no need to spend the entire budget on technical equipment. Even though it's easier to film with the best equipment, you don't always need the newest and most expensive, because what really matters is the staging, creativity and filming technique.

Once filming is finished, the work isn't over yet. Post-production is next. All the footage is edited and music is added. Don't underestimate this part, as sound plays an important role in film. However, you shouldn't rely on post-production, as it can only influence the quality of the footage to a limited extent.

Brief summary

Cinematography is an exciting field that offers room for creativity, art and technical work. If you want to make a film, you should first have a good idea and plan the staging. Put together a team that supports you, so you can concentrate on the camera work.

The right equipment, lighting styles and camera work depend on your knowledge to achieve a high-quality end result. With Kamera Express you have a partner at your side who has the complete equipment with special accessories ready for you, so you can now start your storytelling project!