BPS 373: Cinematography for Directors with Jacqueline B. Frost

Cinematographers are really the directors of images while directors
are the authors of the performances. Evidently, the collaboration
between these two important persons on set with a shared vision and
respect influences the work environment and (the ultimate result)
the film, a great deal. We’re inspired this week by
cinematographer, and author, Jacqueline B. Frost’s book,
Cinematography For Directors: A Guide For Creative Collaboration.
She compiled her 30+ expertise in cinematography and production
into this book. Its 2nd edition was published in March 2020. The
book is a handbook for directors and aspiring filmmakers who want
to get the best visuals for their films while establishing a
collaborative relationship with their cinematographer. Through
interviews with current ASC cinematographers, and a balance between
technical, aesthetic, and historical context, this book guides the
director into a powerful collaboration with their closest on-set
ally.

Topics include selecting a cinematographer, collectively discussing
the script, choosing an appropriate visual style for a film, color
palette, film, and digital formats, lenses, camera movement,
genres, and postproduction processes―including the digital
intermediate (DI). Interwoven are quotes from working ASC
cinematographers.From my own experience directing and working
cinematography a few times, it is no secret that the relationship
between a director and his cinematographer must be intuitive and
non-contradicting. A quick sit down to break down the script,
vision and general approach makes the work way easier for every
party. Frost’s background in fine arts, photography, and
cinematography--- merged, has made it easier for her to spot the
crevices in approaches or the lack thereof pertaining to DP, and
head of images that have been the detriment of many
projects.Cinematography for her is a long-time love of the image
and the endless learning process that was ignited when she pursued
her graduate degree. To date, she’s taught cinematography, film,
and documentary production at UCLA and through shorter courses and
produced over 20 feature films and documentaries.  We cover
several themes from Frost’s book including what directors need to
know about aesthetics of lenses, focal length, and its depth of
field. Our conversation was definitely like a mini masterclass on
cinematography and Jacqueline was a goldmine of knowledge.

Enjoy my conversation with Jacqueline B. Frost.

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