It's always interesting to me how great cinematographers understand and admire the work of great still photographers but still photographers who begin shooting motion don't often take the time to understand the work and craft of great cinematographers. Other than a basic understanding of light and composition, the crafts of still photography and cinematography have a lot less in common than still, photographers think.
With that in mind, I would like to introduce you to two amazing cinematographers. You have probably seen a lot of these movies but all of them are worth watching again just with the cinematography in mind. To me, Deakins always works in the service of the story. He does not draw attention to himself and is formal. Lubeski is more wild and experimental and sees light and composition in the most human and intimate way.
As filmmakers and still photographers, we can all learn so much from their work. Who are your favorite cinematographers and what movies should I watch to become a better filmmakers?
Roger Deakins (No Country for Old Men, Blade Runner 2024, Skyfall, Sicario)
Emmanuel lubezki (Children of Men, Gravity, The Revenant, Birdman)
