Workshop: The Cinema Camera

We begin by examining cameras, from phone to IMAX, as a set of connected systems: power, image taking, interface, mount, processor, display, storage, lens system, accessories, and physical attachment points. Students participate in demonstrations of image manipulation using common camera controls, and work together in crew roles to perform basic camera operations. We explore the interaction between gain and noise, aperture and depth of field, focal length and depth of field, stability and compression, shutter speed and motion blur. We introduce the division of labor of a multi-person camera crew, with students occupying the various positions, and follow with how to perform these roles solo. We close with best practices for the care and feeding of camera equipment and handling of media in the field. The session is camera-agnostic; but details of specific camera systems, lenses, and accessories are discussed and demonstrated in the Q&A.