Cinematography: meaning, definitions and examples

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cinematography

[ˌsɪn.ə.məˈtɑː.ɡrə.fi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

art of making motion pictures

Cinematography is the art and craft of making motion pictures by capturing images on a film or digital medium. It involves the use of camera angles, lighting, composition, and movement to create visually appealing and emotionally impactful scenes.

Synonyms

filmography, movie-making, videography.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cinematography	Used to describe the art of making motion pictures, specifically in relation to camera work and lighting. Often discussed in the context of the visual quality of a film or scene. The cinematography in that movie was breathtaking, especially the use of natural light
filmography	Refers to the complete list of films made by a particular director, actor, or other film professional. Used when discussing someone's career in film. Her filmography includes both blockbuster hits and critically acclaimed indie films
videography	Usually associated with the process of capturing moving images on video, often digital. More commonly used in contexts outside of traditional film, like weddings, events, or content creation for digital platforms. She specializes in wedding videography and has a keen eye for capturing candid moments
movie-making	A general term that refers to the entire process of creating a movie, from writing the script to editing the final cut. Commonly used when talking about the industry or process as a whole. He has always been fascinated by the world of movie-making and dreams of becoming a director

Examples of usage

The cinematography in that film was truly stunning.
The director of photography won an award for his outstanding cinematography.
The cinematography of the movie added depth and emotion to the story.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

work or art of a cinematographer

Cinematography can also refer to the work or art of a cinematographer, the individual responsible for the visual aspects of a film. A cinematographer works closely with the director to achieve the desired look and feel of the movie.

Synonyms

cinematographer's work, cinematographic art.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cinematography	It repeats here by mistake. See the description for the first entry.
cinematographic art	This term is used when discussing the artistic aspects of film-making, focusing on how cinematography contributes to the film as a work of art. It's typically used in more formal or academic contexts. The exhibition at the museum highlighted the evolution of cinematographic art over the past century. Her book delves into the essentials of cinematographic art and its impact on storytelling.
cinematographer's work	This phrase emphasizes the efforts and creativity of the individual behind the camera. It is used when specifically talking about the contribution of the cinematographer in a film production. The cinematographer's work on this film is remarkable, capturing every detail with precision. You can really see the cinematographer's work in the way the lighting sets the mood for each scene.

Word

Description / Examples

cinematography

It repeats here by mistake. See the description for the first entry.

cinematographic art

This term is used when discussing the artistic aspects of film-making, focusing on how cinematography contributes to the film as a work of art. It's typically used in more formal or academic contexts.

The exhibition at the museum highlighted the evolution of cinematographic art over the past century.
Her book delves into the essentials of cinematographic art and its impact on storytelling.

cinematographer's work

This phrase emphasizes the efforts and creativity of the individual behind the camera. It is used when specifically talking about the contribution of the cinematographer in a film production.

The cinematographer's work on this film is remarkable, capturing every detail with precision.
You can really see the cinematographer's work in the way the lighting sets the mood for each scene.

Examples of usage

The cinematography in this film was expertly done.
The cinematographer used innovative techniques to capture the essence of the story.
The cinematography of the movie perfectly complemented the narrative.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the Greek words 'kinein' (to move) and 'grapho' (to write), indicating the writing of movement through images.
In the late 19th century, early inventions like the 'cinematograph' combined motion and photography, paving the way for this art form.
The first films relied on static cameras; it wasn't until the 1920s that moving cameras began to become common in filmmaking.

Artistic Techniques

Lighting and color grading are crucial components that can change the mood of a film scene dramatically.
Framing and shot composition help tell the story visually, guiding viewers’ attention to what is important.
Camera movement, such as panning or dolly shots, adds dynamism and can create suspense or excitement in a scene.

Influential Figures

Notable cinematographer Roger Deakins is known for his work on films like 'Skyfall' and '1917', celebrated for his masterful use of light.
Emmanuel Lubezki, often called 'Chivo', has won Academy Awards for his groundbreaking techniques in 'Birdman' and 'The Revenant'.
Vittorio Storaro is famous for his philosophical approach to color and light, recognized for films like 'Apocalypse Now' and 'The Last Emperor'.

Technology

Digital cameras have revolutionized cinematography, allowing for greater flexibility and faster shooting compared to traditional film.
Drones and stabilized gimbals are now common tools, providing new angles and smoother shots that enhance storytelling.
Post-production software can alter the final look of a film dramatically, allowing cinematographers to fine-tune how it appears.

Cultural Impact

Cinematography can shape public perception, influencing cultural narratives through visual storytelling.
Iconic films often create visual signatures that become part of popular culture, like the desaturated look of 'The Matrix'.
Award-winning cinematography often sets trends, inspiring new filmmakers and pushing the boundaries of the medium.

Translations

Translations of the word "cinematography" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cinematografia

🇮🇳 सिनेमाटोग्राफी

🇩🇪 Kinematographie

🇮🇩 sinematografi

🇺🇦 кінематографія

🇵🇱 kinematografia

🇯🇵 シネマトグラフィー

🇫🇷 cinématographie

🇪🇸 cinematografía

🇹🇷 sinematografi

🇰🇷 영화 촬영술

🇸🇦 التصوير السينمائي

🇨🇿 kinematografie

🇸🇰 kinematografia

🇨🇳 电影摄影术

🇸🇮 kinematografija

🇮🇸 kvikmyndagerð

🇰🇿 кинематография

🇬🇪 კინემატოგრაფია

🇦🇿 kinematografiya

🇲🇽 cinematografía

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,424, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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28421 driller
28422 beckon
28423 disclaiming
28424 cinematography
28425 stepdaughter
28426 perennially
28427 gingivitis
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