This course explains the role of a Director of Photography (aka DP, DOP, Cinematographer) on set, from collaborating with the director in blocking the cast and choosing the camera angles, to lighting the scene with depth and mood.

Across the four modules of the course, watch experienced DP Neil Oseman set up and shoot scenes in common contemporary locations: domestic banter in a sunny kitchen, a monologue in a dark bedroom, an awkward first date in a restaurant, and a walk-and-talk in an outdoor bar. Watch him try out different blocking and camera angles to get the most depth and interest in the frame, create movement using a slider and a gimbal, and work out the coverage needed to complete the scene. Then learn the secrets of cinematic lighting as he sets up LED, tungsten and practical lights to create a look. Witness the camera rehearsals through to the final take, then sit back and watch the final edited scene. Every step of the way, Neil explains what he’s doing and why, as well as the alternatives you could consider for your own films.

This is a follow-up to Neil’s best-selling Udemy course “Cinematic Lighting”, but it’s accessible to anyone with a grasp of the basic concepts of cinematography.