Cinematography Books

Apple Pro Training Series: Final Cut Express 4 (Apple Pro Training)

Diana Weynand

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 19 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Great layout and intro to FCE 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This book has been very helpful as I have embarked into the field of video editing.

Editorial Review:

The only Apple-certified guide to Final Cut Express 4, this book delivers the techniques you need to make movie magic with DV, HDV, or AVCHD footage. Each chapter presents a complete lesson in an aspect of video editing and finishing, with hands-on projects to complete as you go. All the files you need are on the included DVD-ROM. You’ll learn how to make effective edits and adjust them precisely; create polished transitions and sophisticated composites; add audio tracks, titles, and speed and motion effects; then color-correct and finish your video for export to DVD or the Web. Whether you’re a student, a devoted amateur who’s serious about digital video, or a professional who needs a comprehensive editing program, you’ll find everything you need to learn Final Cut Express 4 within the pages of this book. DVD-ROM includes lesson and media files for over 20 hours of training.

Painting With Light

John Alton

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 17 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

While I don't agree with every view in this book, I find this book superior to many on aspects of photography and film 5 out of 5 stars.
10 of 11 people found this review helpful.

First off, I want to note that the author DOES cover still photography in this book even though the major emphasis is on film techniques. As someone who has always considered lighting to be vital, learning more lighting techniques is a passion. I was naturally drawn to this one.

It didn't disappoint. Very convincingly, Mr. Alton makes his case for the way lighting and setting can affect the whole tone and mood of a film. He also reveals how some difficult situations, filming against snow, can be overcome.

This was a seminal book of 1949 and I'm glad to rediscover it, even though I wasn't born in 1949 and I came to it late but had the luck to see an earlier edition. As you can probably tell, the cover photo is riveting and the contents are also compelling.

I did want to note what may, perhaps, be obvious to some readers: film techniques and the ability to manipulate lighting have come a long way since 1949. Special effects can be used. But I come to this book with a still photographer's background and I'm thrilled to be able to use the information in both film and still photography.

If you are prepared to take what is here and remember when this book was written, you'll find an abundance of riches. For those who like noir type photos or movies, you'll be thrilled when Alton discusses how to use weather to your advantage - whether that be rain, snow, fog, etc.

Also, a confession: I prefer black and white photos and films - in many instances - so I was particularly delighted to read Alton's words about "rich blacks", two words that might not seem to be joined together - rich and black (and I'm not talking politics or class here). As most of us who work with visual effects know, there are shades of black and there are rich, deep tones as well as the infinite variations along the scale.

I'll forever be baffled as to whether it is the shadows that set off the light or the other way round. But whatever your take, you can't go wrong by reading this book on how to paint with light - and whether you are a professional or amateur, I think you'll find your work benefits from the experience.

Other subjects covered in this one: close-ups, aspects of outdoor photography, still photos (mentioned above), basic principles. When it comes to TECHNIQUE, if you think about what is discussed with a historical perspective, it will serve you well because some of the techniques have come a long way since then. Still, I found it very useful to pretend that some of those techniques didn't exist and it forced me to be more creative.

Highly recommended!

Editorial Review:

Painting With Light was the first book on cinematography written by a major Hollywood cameraman. Published in 1949 and now put back into print, it is one of the best and most unusual books in the field. Written with good humor and full of helpful diagrams and photographs, it is certainly the most entertaining. Its technological discussions are dated, but Painting With Light remains relevant because its primary focus is on light itself and the many complex ways the camera crew can manipulate it. This new edition contains a biographical introduction by Todd McCarthy, who describes how the man who shot the strikingly colorful ballet sequence in An American in Paris also helped define the stark, haunting style of the film noir.

Magic Lantern Guides: Canon EOS Rebel XSi EOS 450D (Magic Lantern Guides)

Michael Guncheon

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Magic Lantern Camera Guide 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 3 people found this review helpful.

This book is well illustrated with pictures and diagrams. The Magic Lantern Guide makes a complicated camera user friendly.

Editorial Review:

The Canon EOS Rebel X line of consumer-oriented D-SLR cameras has made its indelible mark on the market. Canon sells tons of these models and that's why the Magic Lantern Guides and DVDs that explain how to use them are bestsellers too. The Rebel XSi (the EOS 450D outside of North America) is the most recent update, and it's bound to be a hit with its 12.2 MP sensor; fast-focusing 9-point AF system; and large 3.0-inch LCD monitor with Live View function.Released right alongside this fabulous camera, Magic Lantern's book and DVD is a must for every XSi owner. With complete information on how to use everyy camera feature and function, plus images to instruct and inspire, Magic Lantern guides help photographers get the most out of all their photo equipment. Easy to follow, and featuring sturdy laminated covers and a handy, quick reference wallet card, these conveiniently-sized manuals are an essential accessary for todays complex digital gear.

Adobe Photoshop CS2 One-on-One (One-On-One)

Deke McClelland

Amazon Price: $26.37 List Price: $39.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: O'Reilly Media, Inc. Amazon Marketplace: 62 new & used starting at $8.33

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 99 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

If you work with Adobe Photoshop, you've already tasted how powerful a graphics tool it can be. Universally recognized as the standard for image editing and production, Photoshop is used by close to 20 million people worldwide. But how many can say they've fully tapped its vast functionality?

Whether you're a first-timer looking to learn Photoshop, or a seasoned Photoshopper interested in the cool new features of CS2, Deke McClelland's Adobe Photoshop CS2 One on One will have you completing rewarding projects in no time at all. A Photoshop expert, sought-after computer graphics and design lecturer and author of over 70 books, Deke brings his passion and easy, conversational style to the new edition of his bestselling Photoshop tutorial, updated for CS2.

A straightforward, step-by-step guide to the features and functions of Photoshop-with plenty of real-world projects and insider tips applied along the way-Adobe Photoshop CS2 One on One also covers the new features of CS2 in depth, including Adobe Bridge, the new file browser that makes it possible to process multiple images at once. Learn how to use new workflow and file handling features, how to batch process digital camera raw files, search metadata, quickly review images in Slideshow mode, and much more.

If that sounds like Greek to you, don't worry. Deke uses highly effective One-on-One teaching methods and creates a classroom environment that combines written instruction with more than two hours of video training (provided on DVD). As host of the "Best of Photoshop" disk that ships with every Photoshop order, he's uniquely qualified to present the material in this dynamic, interactive format. Whatever your skill level, Adobe Photoshop CS2 One on One will soon have you speaking fluent Photoshop CS2.

Magic Lantern Guides: Pentax K20D (Magic Lantern Guides)

Peter K. Burian

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Better than the Manual 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This book is a must have for anyone who purchases the Pentax K20D. While it is a near mirror of the actual manual, it is written in such a manner that can be understood by any and all.

Again, A must have.

Great Book 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This book is better than the one that comes with the camera because it gets right to point. If you need to know something it is easy to find.You do not have to go back and forth to find out how to make a setting.

A bit better than the original owner's manual. 2 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This book goes step by step into every single feature, function and adjustment possible in this camera, but nothing else. I does explain most in layman's terms.

I would have liked practical examples being showed as illustration for certain features or settings. I think a book of this matter should have them, as is the only practical way to show what this or that does to your pictures and what to expect from every setting and function available.

Editorial Review:

This brand-new Pentax has major, new features, and this Magic Lantern Guide helps photographers make the most of every one. It covers such exciting upgrades as the low-noise, high-resolution CMOS sensor; the Live View that provides a real-time preview of a scene on a large monitor; a series of picture style options for creating different effects; a Dynamic range Adjustment option;plus a greater variety of post-processing alternatives than ever before.

Magic Lantern Guides: Pentax K200D (Magic Lantern Guides)

Michael Guncheon

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Great Companion Book 5 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.

I was unsure about buying this book. I've found the K200D manual somewhat readable and have gleaned other info, such as using manual lenses, from the internet. I have never read a Magic Lantern Guide, and the reviews for other camera guides are generally positive but also sometimes mixed.

That said, I am extremely pleased with this book. It is exactly what I was looking for. To start with, the photos are all black and white, but they are very effective at demonstrating the point--much better than Pentax's drawings and photos. I don't know how much of the book is boilerplate with other guides, but it definitely seems to be tailored to the K200D.

I haven't read this book in detail yet, but I've already learned about the different Pentax series lenses as well as filter types. In addition, I've learned about its dedicated flash (AF-360FGZ). The instruction manual for the flash is full of tables and cryptic modes. This book makes it easier for me to understand and apply.

One thing that may be missing is information on using older Pentax lenses, specifically manual lenses. It's mentioned briefly in the aperture ring section, but that probably isn't sufficient information by itself. For me this is important because one of the reasons I went with this camera is the huge lens availability. Other than that, it's a great book that I'm glad I bought.

Editorial Review:

With easy-to-understand tips and advice, this Magic Lantern Guide will have owners of the new Pentax K200D taking great pictures in no time. Learn which file and resolution settings give the best image quality from the camera's impressive 10.2 megapixel CCD image sensor. Find out how to get sharp, blur-freephotos with the camera's autofocus system. Discover when to use AUTO Pict, and which Scene modes work best for various subjects. Or try the more advanced creative modes to freeze action or isolate your subject for pictures that pop. Finally, hints on using the camera's built-in flash and choosing accessory flashunits and lenses help make mastering digital SLR photography fun, easy, and rewarding.

Magic Lantern Guides: SONY DSLR A300/A350 (Magic Lantern Guides)

Peter K. Burian

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 1.0 of 5

Very disappointing book - do not buy! 1 out of 5 stars.
16 of 18 people found this review helpful.

I have purchased recently a Sony A300 dSLR and wanted to learn some tips & tricks, in addition to the materials in th excellent users guide.

As the book hinted that it may fit the bill, I have purchased it.

The book looks very nice from the outside - but the inside is very disappointing.

1. The structure is not very logical, and key parts are missing (for example it discusses the menu and fn button functions, but never gives an overview of what happens when you press the button first).
2. There are no tips / tricks in the book - it is very simply cut / reshuffle / paste of (some) parts of the users guide.

The original users guide (came with the camera) has lots of recommendations about how to use the camera and also how to take good pictures, in an easy to understand manner. This book is not good for either - and it actually may confuse the reader more than help. (It did confuse me for sure!)

Of course, if you like puzzle games: you may like this book as you will have to flip back and forth to find something (but in some cases you will never find it). If you want a solid document, helping you to make most of your camera: this book is not it.

I would be curious to find out how a publishing company can pay money to someone for such poor work.

Editorial Review:

Meet the A300 and A350 the two newest cameras in Sony's beginner-friendly "A" series. They're alike except for sensor resolution (the 350 has the highest available in any consumer model), and are perfect for anyone ready to move up from point-and-shoot cameras. That's because they actually allow photographers to view the scene in front of them on the LCD monitor prior to shooting. Owners will look to this guide to find out how to use the Live Preview with AF and exposure control; adjustable variable angle LCD monitor that flips out and twists; and Super SteadyShot(R) image stabilization that vastly reduces blur.

Setting Up Your Shots: Great Camera Moves Every Filmmaker Should Know

Jeremy Vineyard

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 38 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

Setting Up Your Shots 2 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

While Setting Up Your Shots covered all the common camera moves needed for DV filmmakers, the explanations on the moves were a little too brief for my liking. For a few dollars more, Film Directing, Cinematic Motion: A Workshop for Staging Scenes (paperback) by Steven D. Katz is a much better resource, one that the reader will use time-and-again. Best!

Setting Up Your Shots 3 out of 5 stars.
0 of 2 people found this review helpful.

I have been using this book in my Video class and it is passable, but should include useable films as examples rather than R-rated films I cannot use in the classroom. While most teens have seen most of these movies, I cannot show them as examples in a classroom setting, due to rating problems. If this is to remain a viable product in the future, the examples will have to be toned down.

Good perspective on visual setups 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

June 12, 2008
By R. Otterman (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews


This book feels more like film analysis than a field guide given its breakdown on a number of well-known pictures. It does, though, have merits as an instructional book for considering the frame and motion that define cinematography and the shot. In that way it's a help and was a help to me in planning shots for a film. If nothing else, this book gets a filmmaker thinking in terms of planning shots that go beyond closeup-medium-wide.

Illustrations give a sense that the author spent a good amount of time considering what to add and what to draw upon as better examples of good filmmaking, and creative shooting at that. The one criticsm of the book is that there is not a little more in the way of description, though that might be said to be a strength for visually-oriented material. Some of the reviews that called it rubbish, etc. seem to miss the point that this book is intended for filmmakers to get ideas by way of considering the who's who of shots, not a descriptive understanding of the metaphoric value of cinema. On a simple and basic level the book accomplishes what it sets out to do- generate possibilities by gathering the best of the best in shots and organizing them into a collection for the planning artist to consider.

For me, anyway, this worked and I've taken much from the book the last few years and I'm looking forward to the new edition that's coming out.

Editorial Review:

Over 100 storyboards with simple descriptions.

Peru

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

In March 1949, Robert Frank mailed a birthday gift to his mother in Switzerland: A maquette of a series of photographs he had made during a visit to Peru between June and December of the previous year. Frank assembled an identical book for himself, and these two maquettes now reside in the collections of The Museum of Modern Art, New York and the National Gallery of Art, Washington. A few of the images are well known in Frank's oeuvre, but until now very few people have seen the entire series--which, in 1949, already displayed the hallmark of Frank's distinctive image-sequencing. Peru also exhibits an ease and flexibility that Frank himself confirms: "I was very free with the camera. I didn't think of what would be the correct thing to do; I did what I felt good doing. I was like an action painter." Using a hand-held 35mm Leica camera, Frank documented the country's massive vistas, weathered faces, manual labor and dusty roads stretching to the horizon with a spontaneity of motion that propels the viewer into the midst of the scenery. For the first time, and under the direction of Frank himself, this book presents the complete sequence of images. Peru is a work of major significance in both the artist's history and the history of photography. Published in association with the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Bare Bones Camera Course for Film and Video

Tom Schroeppel

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

The best basic camera and cinematography explanations I have found. 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This book is the easiest book on the subject to understand. Allmost anyone could understand this book. It gives you the same information as some of those long 300 page books that try to sound scholarly but just end up sounding pretensious. This book is the complete basics, so for anyone who is looking for more in depth stuff this isnt the right book for you.

The best beginners book out there 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This is one of the simplest, and best books I've ever seen for beginner filmmakers. It is able to very clearly explain complicated concepts, without writing any more than necessary. It's a very slender book, and a very quick read, and well worth your time.

Excellent Resource 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Unlike many training books The Bare Bones Camera Course for Film and Video does not attempt to suggest what camera you should buy, nor does it tell you how to shoot Aunt Alice's 80th birthday party. This book, in its 89 pages, is a beautiful example of a subject that has been pared down to the essential information needed to learn it----and the subject is how to operate your video camera to get the best images you can.

The book's table of contents lists eight sections:

· Basics (such as camera functions, lenses, depth of field)
· Composition
· Basic Sequence
· Screen Direction
· Camera Moves
· Montages
· Lighting
· Doing It (how to plan for a shoot)

Each section is covered concisely, and there are over 200 simple, but effective, black and white line art illustrations to accompany the topic being discussed. This book is perfect for the person who wants to concentrate on improving their video camera operating skills.