Next up was the state of the RED. Ted from RED talked a little about the history of the company and products, and then gave a little outline of their plans. All of this was pretty much on their website, but it was a good summary of everything. Best part was that he showed a lot of footage shot on RED. Some of the scenes were just amazing. I am so impressed with what this camera can do in the right hands. It was used is so many different fields; docs, features, music videos, corporate, commercial. I am looking forward to taking ours out for a spin when I get back to Doha. Seems that it is in Customs limbo right now, but hopefully that get straightened out soon.

Last of the night was an ARRI talk about their D21 camera. I wanted to see this camera, since it is one of the ones that I am considering for use at the college. I have to say that I was not impressed. The camera is large and heavy. Some of the footage was pretty good, but most looked like nice looking video. Not really what I was hoping for. It was nice to see the S.two’s OB1 attached to the camera. This allows for a little less complicated data capture solution. I am sure in the right hands this is a nice camera, but it seems like it is a bit hard to get the best results from this cam.

The documentary Visions of Light is a great program detailing the history of the profession. Here is the beginning clip to the show:

If you ever get a chance, you should take time to watch the whole program.

If you want to be a DP, what do you have to do? Well first you have to realize that this is not an entry level position. It takes years to get good at camera and lighting technique. I would suggest learning about the field either through formal training or teaching yourself and then getting involved in productions. The best way to learn about shooting is to get on a set and see how it is done. Going to film school is a good thing in that you get an introduction to the field and make some contacts with others, but you don’t really start your education until you are actually doing the work. Start at the bottom, work as hard as you can, learn from everyone you meet, and keep doing it. It is a life long education that only a handful have mastered.

Additional Information: Wikipedia Cinematographer, The American Society of Cinematographers, Cinematography.com