As a cinematographer, I've had the pleasure of working on various film productions, including short films. While feature films may get all the hype and attention, there's something special about working on short films that I absolutely love.

One of the joys of working on short films is the opportunity to work with new and emerging filmmakers. Often, short films are a filmmaker's calling card, a way to showcase their talents and creativity. As a cinematographer, I get to work alongside these passionate individuals and help bring their vision to life on the screen. It's incredibly rewarding to see the final product and know that I played a part in creating it.

Another benefit of working on short films is the tight-knit production teams. Because short films typically have smaller budgets, the crew is often smaller as well. This means that each member of the team has a more significant role and more responsibility. As a cinematographer, I enjoy being part of a team where everyone is invested in the project and working towards a common goal. The teamwork and camaraderie on a short film set are unmatched.

Working on short films also allows me to be more creative and experimental with my cinematography. With feature films, there's often more pressure to play it safe and stick to traditional cinematography techniques. But with short films, there's more room to take risks and try new things. I love experimenting with different camera angles, lighting setups, and visual effects to create unique and memorable shots.

As a videographer, short films provide an excellent opportunity to showcase my skills and build my portfolio. Short films are often screened at film festivals, and having my name attached to a successful short film can open up new opportunities and lead to more work down the line.

Working on short films is a joy and a privilege as a cinematographer. From the opportunity to work with emerging filmmakers to the tight-knit production teams, the chance to be more creative, and the potential for career growth, short films offer a unique and rewarding experience that I look forward to every time. If you're a cinematographer or videographer, I highly recommend seeking out short film projects to add to your portfolio and enjoy the process of bringing a filmmaker's vision to life on the screen.

The Visual Craft Blog

Short Film Director of Photography