Practical Cinematography

Paul Wheeler author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:21st Dec '15

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

This hardback is available in another edition too:

Practical Cinematography cover

Filmmaking is an art, but, like so many art forms, there are basic underlying tools and techniques and a body theoretical knowledge that must be understood and mastered before artistic expression can flourish. This book is an invaluable resource for all aspiring DoPs.

Practical Cinematography can be dipped into for quick reference - perhaps to answer a specific question or deal with practical problems relating to a shoot - or read from cover to cover. It discusses the principles of cinematography and the expertise which is unique to the Director of Photography (DoP). It deals with all the basic theory such as color temperature and sensitometry, and all the practical things a DoP needs to know, from the make-up of the crew to how to prepare an equipment list.

"This is a very practical and easily accessible explanation of the cinematographer's craft...It is a lucid reference book and readable guide and achieves its aim of supplying the foundation knowledge an aspiring DoP needs." - Zerb

"...there is absolutely no doubt that all the technical knowledge that a DoP needs can be found within these covers." - Image Technology magazine

"In his definitive tome Wheeler takes us through every aspect of the DOP's job from discussing the finer points of which film stock to use to film grading. This is a well-presented, copiously illustrated and definitive guide to practical cinematography. Although much of the information contained in the book is concerned with 35mm and 16mm film making, Wheeler's expert knowledge of the craft of lighting, use of filters, and creative use of lenses to create stunning cinemagraphic images will help any videographer improve their technical understanding of camera operation...This book is not a quick and easy read; it is a detailed and comprehensive masterclass in practical cinematography." - Focus magazine

"This book is very clearly illustrated with useful diagrams." - Stills Audio Motion

"The author covers in great detail the many aspects of the production of a motion picture from the director of photography's point of view and responsibility. He does this in a very understandable and interesting style...Paul Wheeler details the creating of an image as a top DP would desire. The book is very comprehensive and makes informative reading in a very enjoyable manner."
-John Leak, ACS, Australian Cinematographer magazine,


'I've attended one of Paul's lectures and although this book can only contain a part of his humour, a fraction of his experience and a hint of his enthusiasm it's a wonderful source of knowledge. It will provide a valuable insight to all budding cinematographers who should read it, learn it and then go out and make a film (not a video... a film)!'
Online bookseller's reader review

"The author covers in great detail the many aspects of the production of a motion picture from the director of photography's point of view and responsibility. He does this in a very understandable and interesting style."
-John Leak, ACS, Australian Cinematographer magazine,

ISBN: 9781138174429

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 453g

224 pages

2nd edition