Picture Composition

By Peter Ward

Behind each shot there lies an idea or purpose. When setting up a shot, the camera operator can employ a range of visual techniques that will clearly communicate the idea to an audience. Composition is the bedrock of the operator's craft, yet is seldom taught in training courses in the belief that it is an intuitive, personal skill. Peter Ward shows how composition can be learned, to enhance the quality of your work. Based on the author's own practical experience, the book deals with the methods available for resolving practical production questions such as: Does the shot composition accurately reflect the idea that initiated the shot? Will the content and method of presenting the subject accurately convey the idea? Major innovations in television and film production since the previous edition have affected the styles of composition, such as wide-screen and the use of mini DV cameras. These new technologies and their implications for picture composition are addressed in this new edition. A new colour plate section is also being included to update the section on colour. If you are a practising camera operator, trainee camera operator, student or lecturer on a television or film production course, or simply a video enthusiast wishing to progress to a more professional standard you will find this book essential in enhancing the quality of your work.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0240516818
• ISBN13: 9780240516813
• Release Date: November 2002
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 276 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 7.4" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

inspiration

excellent! this book helps you to understand why shots work in certain situations and not others. A good explanation into the theory of composition, it serves to inspire. If you want to find out how to frame a shot this book is not for you. However, if you want to find out how to think before you frame a shot, then this is well worth the read.

A must for artists, cinematographers, and writers alike

"Picture Composition," a skillfully completed book in which the compositional structures of a picture is conveyed to you by the author instead of applying subjective rules which differ from person to person. This book proves that composition can be learned and/or taught. The skills taught in this book are useful for visualizing as applied in writing, film, and painting.