Description
Book SynopsisThis fully revised and updated edition of the classic book on cinematic composition provides readers with the necessary skills and technical know-how to create polished and narratively eloquent images, using a unique approach that combines an analytical, technical, and aesthetic understanding of the essential visual grammar of the shot.
Containing well over a hundred full-color case studies, this second edition was expanded to include brand-new shot types, and was completely updated to reflect developments in filmmaking technology and practices, including the DSLR revolution, the advent of mirrorless and compact cinema cameras, improvements in CMOS sensor performance, the introduction of 4K and higher video resolutions, and drone cinematography.
The Filmmaker's Eye: Learning (and Breaking) the Rules of Cinematic Composition 2nd edition is essential reading for anyone with an interest in motion media and cinematic storytelling, including independent filmmakers, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors, as well as those studying filmmaking, media aesthetics, and film studies.
Trade Review"Mercado's book is a great resource for aspiring cinematographers. Using a brilliant selection of images, both classic and contemporary, he eloquently analyzes the conception and execution of a shot. Most important, he manages to explain how to achieve an aesthetically beautiful image, while giving equal weight to the powerful role of cinematography in portraying the characters and telling the story."
Florian Ballhaus, ASC, cinematographer of Flightplan, The Devil Wears Prada, and The Divergent Series: Insurgent
"Gustavo's book explores and details the techniques available with excellent examples of what works, why it works and how one can break with conventions for specific effect. A great resource for all, from students of the filmmaking craft through to seasoned practitioners intersted in contemplating their own instincts and why they do things the way they do."
Denson Baker, ACS, NZCS, cinematographer of The Dark Horse, Ophelia and The Luminaries
Table of Contentsacknowledgments; preface to the second edition; introduction; finding the frame; image systems; rules of cinematic composition & technical concepts; SIZES; extreme close‒up; close‒up; medium close‒up; medium shot; medium long shot; long shot; extreme long shot; CONVENTIONS; over the shoulder shot; establishing shot; subjective shot; two shot; group shot; split‒screen shot; canted shot; overhead shot; inverted shot; emblematic shot; abstract shot; macro shot; zoom shot; DYNAMICS; pan shot; tilt shot; dolly shot; dolly zoom shot; tracking shot; Steadicam® shot*; crane shot; aerial shot; sequence shot; filmography; image credits; index