Any good resources for finding a DP?

C

cinematical

Well-known member
I'm in pre-production for a major film project, and I'm starting to look around for a cinematographer to work with. The shoot isn't until June, but I'd like to start collaborating sooner rather than later. At this point, though, I haven't had much luck finding a resource for just browsing. Anyone know any sites that have this? I'm thinking of something similar to the way the CGSociety has a database of portfolios. Would be really nice to have a reel database...
 
You're in L.A. so there are a mountain of talent agencies there. Unlike their actors, most list their cinematographers, art directors, production designers, and other key behind the camera clients. So you should have no trouble getting a hold of any of them.
 
Directors usually choose a DP because:

1) they use someone they've worked with in the past and have had a good successful relationship with.
2) they had seen something they really liked, photography wise, and approaches that DP
3) recommendations from fellow directors or filmmakers they trust... or if the person they want like in #1 above, is not available, they might suggest another.

Otherwise, outside of those common ways, the director is probably best to let production choose a couple and have them all meet to see who works and who doesn't. These producers will probably then send scripts to agencies and set up meetings that way.

Otherwise,

What has two thumbs and is a LA based cinematographer?


<-- This guy


Hahaha, goodluck in your search. There are many many LA based everythings, including cinematographers!
 
Thanks guys. I'll definitely use your suggestions. I still think that there should be a reel resource... perhaps dvxuser could put something together like that. That'd be kind of cool -- a place for everyone to post their reels.

And Mr. O'Hara -- how would you say you are with outdoor cinematography, in a forest, shooting RED 4k?
 
I think that is a very interesting and good idea, if done correctly. It would be quite an undertaking, but interesting to say the least. Certain issues like who is included, where reel hosting is held, and organization would be tough to sort out, but if good solutions were found it would be a great resource for sure. I try to get exposure as much as possible, and through DVXuser would be doubly as great, as I have worked with at least 20 DVXmembers in the past, and all experiences were very positive and successful. Many of which I still work with on a continuing and consistent basis.

Regarding your film and my abilities, what you have described is well within my experience and ability. I would be very happy to discuss your film outside of this thread by means of either DVXuser private messages, email, phone and/or in person.

Regardless, best of luck with your production.
 
The portfolio system used by CGtalk/CGSociety might be a good place to look for possible examples of such a system here, since it works well and they have an equivalently large community over there.

And I just took a look at your reel, mr. O'hara, and I see you DP'd The Second Choice! I saw that play at SCBFF last year and thought it looked fantastic. I'll be PM'ing you to discuss some things further.
 
There are plenty of good DP's if you just look around. Look for people's sigs and see if they are a DP. Good chance they will have a link that you can click to see their work.

Check out my sig to see some of my work.
 
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