CINEMATOGRAPHY REELS
What is a reel? For the professionals the term isn't a new one but it might be new for upcoming cinematographers. In the english dictionary a reel is a flanged spool of photographic film which can roughly translate as a rough compilation of somehow unrelated filmstrips to produce some kind of a motion picture portfolio. In today's understanding a reel; specifically a cinematography reel is a compilation of different parts of various videos/films shot by a certain cinematographer to showcase his work to the people.
Why is this important? Well, for one it helps the cinematographer gain more audience because if he or she has shot a lot of videos/films some people may not have the time to view them all, so the reel helps them catch up with some of his previous work. Second, it is some sort of a visual C.V. for the cinematographer, so this will help him showcase his work whilst applying for a shooting job or secure his chances from different sponsors. Third, it acts as an inspiration both for the individual cinematographer and other cinematographers as well. This is because for the individual cinematographer the compilation helps him understand where he has come from and calculate or plan what to do to increase the quality to his work. As for other cinematographers especially those who are still in the amateur or learning levels, the reel helps them learn from the visuals of different cinematographers, things like composition and lighting and the like. And for the indie level, things like editing and color grading because most indie cinematographers tend to edit their own stuff.
I'm not writing this post just to define what a reel is, but mainly to show some of the reels that are visual masterpieces and those that inspire me the most. Be warned this is my personal listing for there are thousands of great cinematographers out there. My aim is to show what the professionals have done and are continuing to do, for they inspire and teach us through their work.
Courtesy of Khaled Mohtaseb
Courtesy of Kendy Ty. Minimal but Powerful.
4. Vincent Laforet
Courtesy of Neumann Films
Philip Bloom recently posted his reel that showcases his cinematography masterpieces. To view Bloom's reel, click here.
Courtesy of Fenchel & Janisch