Our Director + Cinematographer Workflow
Jeff sitting next to the Arri Alexa Mini
Traditionally, commercial productions stem from two key players: The director and the cinematographer.
In today’s world, we reserve the word “cinematographer” for feature films where the role solely consists of one crew member carefully orchestrating his or her camera department of camera assistants and cam operators. In the commercial world, we more commonly use the term “Director of Photography.” This phrase both makes a lot of sense and no sense, all at the same time. In my experience, the only real discernible difference between a “DP” and a “cinematographer” is that the DP will often choose to operate the camera, whereas the cinematographer hangs back by a monitor to watch with the director.
Both a cinematographer and a director of photography are at the head of the camera department and serve the quality of the image. This crew member brings with them a taste for perfect lighting and thoughtful camera movement that serves the story.
In the above photograph, you can see Jeff taking the DP role and feeling more comfortable with the hands-on approach. As Noble Bison Productions continues to grow and expand our team both behind scenes and on set, Jeff Riley has taken great pride in the challenge of serving as both the DP and the Director. Though it’s always more challenging to juggle many roles at once, this particular challenge comes with open arms.
1st Camera Assistant; Orion Madsen setting up the Arri Alexa Mini
The ability that Jeff has to serve in both roles with Noble Bison Productions can be seen as a huge advantage to the clients hiring our services. Our clients can save from paying a premium rate to hire an additional person to serve in either role (both can be quite pricey). Additionally, Jeff can execute a concise and non-conflicted direction for every production. The direction, as well as the image, can only grow and serve each other as they’re derived from a single source. While on set, there’s no arguing or bickering between the director and the DP because they are one and the same as Jeff handles both roles with pride. Camera movements and lighting direction are placed as a priority from the inception of every project, instead of becoming an after-thought.
With Noble Bison Productions you’re investing in a well thought out story and a top tier image that work together to create a beautiful marriage of love for your story.
Does you have a video project in mind? We’d love to collaborate with you. Click the link below to get in touch.