Every film is unique: John Seale shares cinematography insights

Panaji: At the 55th International Film Festival of India in Goa, celebrated cinematographer John Seale captivated audiences with a discussion about his illustrious career, the transformative power of light, and the necessity of innovation in the art of cinematography. Seale shared practical wisdom and personal anecdotes, inspiring current and aspiring professionals in the film industry.

Essence of cinematography: Innovation and individuality

Seale emphasized that cinematography is an ever-evolving craft with no set formula. “Every film is unique. What works for one might not suit another,” he said. He highlighted the Australian cinema tradition of the “what if” system, encouraging flexibility and creative problem-solving.

Journey from documentaries to blockbusters

Recounting his career beginnings in the 1960s, Seale described how working at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) taught him the fundamentals of visual storytelling. From filming horse races to television shorts, these formative years helped him hone his craft. “I can give a long lecture on how to cover a horse race,” he joked.

Improvisation and adaptation: Lessons from set

Seale shared an anecdote about incorporating actor improvisations into filming. During a shoot, a dropped toothpick prompted him to adapt by using a two-camera setup to capture the spontaneity of the moment. “I just shouted ‘EMERGENCY’ and winked at the director. That’s how we got the scene,” he recounted.

Close collaboration: Role of the lighting cameraman

Seale underscored the importance of being both the lighting cameraman and operator. “Staying close to the director helps bring their vision to life visually,” he explained, emphasizing the collaborative essence of cinematography.

Supporting actors: Eliminating barriers to performance

Highlighting his respect for actors, Seale discussed how technical practices could hinder performances. “Actors become mechanical when forced to follow floor marks for focus,” he noted. He preferred marking for the camera instead, freeing actors to focus on their craft. He also introduced quieter slide-in boards to replace noisy clapboards, ensuring actors could prepare without distractions.

Pre-production: Foundation of cinematic excellence

Seale stressed the importance of thorough pre-production. “The more work you do beforehand, the easier it is during filming,” he said. Key aspects like lens selection and understanding the director’s vision are essential in aligning the technical and creative aspects of storytelling.

Inclusivity in cinematography: A vision for all creators

Addressing a question on whether modern digital cameras could empower differently-abled individuals, Seale expressed optimism. “Physical disability cannot stop a creator. It’s the script that matters,” he said, advocating for inclusivity in the industry.

John Seale’s session was a masterclass in the art and philosophy of cinematography, offering valuable insights into the collaborative, adaptive, and creative nature of the craft. His emphasis on innovation, actor-centric practices, and inclusivity serves as a guiding light for present and future cinematographers, ensuring the continued evolution of visual storytelling.