Natalie Saito

I've been hearing two completely different perspectives about the future of filmmaking. Hard-core filmmakers say "Digital will never replace film because it would never LOOK as good as 35mm film even with special lenses, filters and 24 frame rate..They believe it's worth the extra cost." Then the digital filmmakers say that "technology makes it easier to make films. It's more affordable, very high quality image, easier for editing/special effects (no need to transfer back and forth) and there is no need to worry about the common annoyances of actual film (ex: light leakage on the film, loading problems, snip testing)." I've been contemplating this for a while now..hey, I aspire to become a cinematographer. When I first started film school, I wanted to get into the "old school" filmmaking. Now, I'm thinking that digital might be better for me. I still study film cameras on my own. Don't get me wrong, I love film. But, I believe sooner or later digital will take over..even though many hardcore filmmakers will do all they can to resist change. Honestly, what do you think about this issue? I'd like to hear it from a professional cinematographer. Thanks! -Natalie

Actually I had many on-set experiences, student and indie films, and recently I have been actively working/seeking work as a Camera Assistant whenever possible. OCEAN, thanks for the advice. Now that I think about it, if you're a a new DP no one should expect you to have access to the best equipment or have the best work. Perhaps directors and producers will like you better if you can make good videos with the limited resources you got --creativity is key. I don't expect this video to look the best, especially at my level, but I don't want it to look at all ameteurish. DAVID MULLEN, thanks for your advice. I realize that budget is always the biggest concern and most filmmaker don't have a lot. I don't really know how to go about getting funding, grants and donations. People won't simply hand you money. I guess the luck is stumbling into the right people. Thanks all! -Natalie

I?m a film student (junior) and I aspire to becoming a cinematographer. I realize film school helps a person understand about the theory/skills of film and experience helps a person understand the day-to-day schedules/work environment on a production set. But what really bothers me is how can I get my own work out there? I realize the competition is big and I?ve been told nothing is more important than your reel, your own work. Producers and directors won?t hire you as a Director of Photography unless you can prove that you are capable ?that is when the reel comes in. I want to make a quality short film project (dv) but my budget is micro. I want to know if there was any way I can get funding and financial support. All advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you all! -Natalie

Kieran, I've experienced the exact same thing when I took my first filmmaking class. But my problem was improper loading. Unfortunately, I didn't realize it until I took out the film. I was using a rather difficult camera to load, Krasnogorsk-3 (16mm), a camera that I bought recently. Frankly I learned the proper way despite the fact that many film people (including my professor) had the same difficulty. I know that feeling of "what if it doesn't come out?" but it's all part of the learning process. And hopefully losing a lot of money isn't part of it. -Natalie