Filming in the Real World: Doc., Handheld, Interviews w/ Peter Stein in New York

Filming in the Real World: Doc., Handheld, Interviews w/ Peter Stein

As part of the Working Professional series, AbelCine has partnered with Peter Stein to present Filming in the Real World: Documentary, Handheld, Interviews.

In this workshop, different types of documentary films will be presented, and we will look at selections from some notable examples. The different techniques used in the films will be outlined, and the ways to accomplish them will be demonstrated.

As with all cinematography, we must consider how the footage will be used; in a documentary - especially in cinema verité, there may be no scripted narrative, so the cinematographer must learn how to tell a story in the way the scene is shot.

Documentary filmmaking often requires hand - held shooting. We will explore different situations, and when to use the DSLR or a traditional camera, discuss techniques for attaining fluid movement, and talk about when not to use hand-held.

We will talk about how to light quickly: quick set-up, base illumination, available light, and the onboard camera light; also quick tricks to be prepared for any eventuality. This will be demonstrated with a DSLR and a monitor.

Then we will investigate techniques for shooting interviews: the aesthetics and practicalities of capturing a person on camera will be demonstrated through different setups for various circumstances.

Supplementary footage for editing purposes, such as exteriors, B-Roll and cutaways will be discussed.

Since the crew is generally much smaller, more tasks fall to the cinematographer. We will talk about scouting, sun direction, sound issues, and general preparedness.

Director of Photography on over 50 feature films, TV movies, and documentaries and member of the American Society of Cinematographers, Peter Stein has photographed classic cult films in the genres of comedy and horror, major studio releases, independent films, and noted documentaries. He has taught at SUNY Purchase and The School of Visual Arts, lectured on cinematography at many of the area's universities and has been on the NYU graduate faculty since 2002 where he now serves as Head of Production. Currently he is producing and directing a documentary film for American Public Television about his father, the noted photographer Fred Stein. Visit Peter's IMDB page for a detailed filmography.

Course DetailsInstructorPeter Stein, ASC

Categories: Film