Cinematography Portfolio

[Connor F]

I am working on my portfolio for Film/Art School, specifically focused on Cinematography, but I'm not sure what to do. I understand and am, in a humble way, pretty good at controlling the camera, but I can't make a film on my own. I am an average-at-best director and an even worse writer, so I feel like if I do it on my own, it will put the university off. Do they accept group work that the others involved also can use? Thanks for the help.

 

[tamas.meder]

I am working on my portfolio for Film/Art School, specifically focused on Cinematography, but I'm not sure what to do. I understand and am, in a humble way, pretty good at controlling the camera, but I can't make a film on my own. I am an average-at-best director and an even worse writer, so I feel like if I do it on my own, it will put the university off. Do they accept group work that the others involved also can use? Thanks for the help.

Hi Connor,

Although I am also in the process of applying for an MA course in cinematography (I already got my BA) here is my advice:

Although the expectations of every film school may be different, what I am pretty convinced about is that all film schools understand that making a film is a group activity. When applying to college and they ask for a cinematography showreel they would only review your course specific work on it. They definitively won't expect you to do everything on the film. If your images are top-notch that should be enough.

Obviously it isn't a downside to be a great director or writer in the same time, but it's not a must have quality.

If you know any directors or writers just ask them to help you with the production but in case there is nobody around I would advice you to instead of trying to write, direct and shoot a film yourself just go out and create a more lyrical montage film where the shots alone can create an atmosphere and talk by themselves. If your images can 'talk', that's a good start.

Good luck!

Tamas