What makes a good 'Director of Photography' reel?

D

DDirector

Veteran
What truly makes a good 'Director of Photography' reel?
​

The video itself:
Why would you use some shots rather than others in your reel?

I don't really know what I should be showing in my reel and what I should not show.

What are people looking for in a Director of Photography reel?


Also to consider is length:
What is the best length of such a reel?


Thirdly, the music:
Is there a type of music that works best for this reel?

Should the video match the audio (cuts on specific timing) or should the video be made and then throw in a good piece of music that suits the video?


*I've been watching many reels. Some nice ones, some not so much.
 
I was going over some other topics somewhat related to this. Some people were saying not to go over 2min or stay as close as possible to 2min. for any reel.

As for the quote, it makes sense, but what would be acceptable in a reel?
Basically the Director, Cameraman, DP, or anyone else can use the same piece of footage in their reel because they think its a great shot. Is that okay?
although they all do work to get every shot, some things seem to focus more on the director, other shots focus more on the art (DP), or stuff for a cameraman (like a steadicam shot). So, does it really matter as long as it looks good?

Most people, if not all just throw in random shots of a person looking somewhere. There is nothing fancy about the shot at all. So, why put it in there?

Will look over that link you posted when I got the time. Its pretty long. lol
 
there are no rules how to make a good reel, it depends on your material.

put the best shots in there, which you like most.
take a musictrack, with a good bpm, so you can match your cuts to it. you can try to take 2 songs. like me, one slow one fast.
you have to experiment with your material. it takes a long time. and dont forget to put a good color grading on it :)

2min is a good length.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top