AWD + Shotdeck Present Cinematography for Directors

About this event

Cinematography for Directors is a half-day program designed to give directors a deeper understanding of the creative and technical collaboration behind the camera.

The afternoon will feature two panels exploring the director/DP relationship and the evolving intersection of live action, animation, and VFX. Between panels, attendees will have the opportunity to visit hands-on camera stations, where experts will demo equipment, answer questions, and give directors the chance to get more comfortable working with the tools they’ll encounter on set.

PANEL 1: Inside The Pitt

Using The Pitt as a case study, this conversation will explore how directors collaborate with the DP and camera team to establish a visual language and execute it on set. Panelists will discuss prep, communication, shot design, navigating the realities of production, and how each department contributes to bringing the director’s vision to the screen.

Panelists:

Johanna Coelho, Director of Photography

Uta Briesewitz, Director

Aymae Sulick, Camera Operator, AWD Member

Keelan Carothers, Gaffer

PANEL 2: Mixed Media

This panel explores the craft of blending live action with animation and VFX, by discussing old and new filmmaking trends, how technology has changed, and where the industry may be headed next. Bringing together skilled cinematographers, the conversation will dig into questions like: how do you prep a live-action shoot when half the scene elements don’t exist yet? Also, how do you maintain both precision and creative freedom, while working within practical boundaries and limitations?

Panelists:

Brandon Trost, DP, Coyote vs. Acme, Sonic the Hedgehog films

Bianca Cline, DP, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On

Peter Collister, DP, Clifford The Big Red Dog, 2nd Unit Director Coyote v. Acme

SPACE IS LIMITED. RSVPs will be on a first come basis. Doors open at 12:30, panels start at 1. Refreshments provided.