The Cinematographer's Canvas: Aspect Ratios and Framing the Film Timo Heinanen 9781041043508

This is a groundbreaking book that sheds light on the roles of cinematographers in terms of using aspect ratios and framing in films. This book offers a fresh look on the processes associated with the creative side of filmmaking and the use of cinematic space.

Based on the author's own experience the book offers an insightful discussion between cinematographers based on questionnaires, interviews and correspondence with professional cinematographers and film students alike. It describes the different modes of activity such as pre production, collaboration and working with directors, the processes behind selecting an aspect ratio, and genres and expectancy. The chapters also focus on compositional elements, the concept of centre, balance and negative space. They look behind the act of framing, revealing what impact these visual frameworks have on the work of cinematographers and the overall storytelling experience. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the artistic and technical decisions the cinematographers make, how these decisions impact their work, and their creativity in the visual narrative.

This book will make ideal reading for students and practitioners of filmmaking, cinematography, composition and framing, and for anyone interested in film, creative processes and visual storytelling.

Timo Heinanen is a professional cinematographer with an extensive 30+ years experience in industry. He is also a cinematography teacher, having worked as Senior Lecturer at British University Hanoi, Vietnam, ELO Film School in Helsinki, Finland, and at the London Film School as a professor and Head of Camera. He is affiliated with the Finnish Society of Cinematographers.