Feedback on my first few pieces of cinematography?

[Todd Terry]

I was fully prepared to cringe when I read ” This is the first time i’ve done cinematography for anything”… but I took a chance and watched anyway.

Surprisingly really REALLY good work. Quite nice, I wouldn’t have pegged you for a total beginner, some shots with really nice composition there.

I definitely look forward to seeing what you can do on down the road.

If you are looking for any criticism, I’ll give you one obvious one… I wouldn’t end a showreel with a suicide. Or even include one. You have much better stuff for an ending scene anyway. I know you like the way it looks and syncs with the music hit for a finale, but while it doesn’t bother me at all I can envision lots of people who would find it offputting or inappropriate.

Good work. Oh, good logo design, too.

T2

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Todd Terry
Creative Director
Fantastic Plastic Entertainment, Inc.
fantasticplastic.com

[Rhys Warren]

Thank-you so much for your reply and taking the time to watch it.
I have taken in what you have said about the ending shot and totally understand what you are saying, last thing i want is to put people off, especially when just starting out.

Im heading to university this year but another thing i would love to gain is experience. Ive tried contacting many people through email and hardly get replies. Do you have any tips on building up contacts within the industry? Im from the UK so im not sure how much harder or different it would be to do so.

Once again many thanks!

[Rick Wise]

I second everything Todd said. You have a very good eye. For demo reels (and movies in general) it’s usually best to never repeat any shots. There are rare and stylistic exceptions.

As for finding gigs, I have no idea of how that works in the UK. Here it’s a tough slog until you get the first one. Little by little you build a reputation as someone who does good work and is good to have around on the set. If there’s some sort of directory of production houses, directors, DPs etc., get it and start phoning. Expect gigantic rejections. But when you stumble upon someone who at that very moment needs some help you get your entry.

The most important part of getting work is your own attitude. You’ve got to be ready to do just about anything (legal) anyone asks you to do, and with a smile. Be careful about asking too many questions: then you become a pest instead of a help.

As we say here, “break a leg.” (An old theater expression.)

Rick Wise
Cinematographer
MFA/BFA Lighting and Camera Instructor Academy of Art University
San Francisco Bay Area
https://www.RickWiseDP.com