Second part of the interview with Randal Eyenhorn, cinematographer of the TV show “The Office.” Lot’s of cool ideas about lighting and dealing with props. If you didn’t catch the previous episode, click here to watch part 1.
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I don’t know when it started but there is a new type of show that I call “cringe TV.” The first example of this kind of shows that I remember was the British version of “The Office”. Something that is painful to watch and yet very engaging and funny. The American version of “The Office” stars Steve Carrel of “Daily Show” fame, in the role of the inept Michael Scott. The show became an immediate success with multiple seasons now being already released on DVD. The crew of “2nd Unit” had the fortune and privilege to be on the set of the show for one day to conduct an interview with Randal Eyenhorn, the cinematographer/director/camera operator of the show. Randal sheds a lot of light, figuratively and literally, about the techniques used in the show. Click on the video below for part 1 of this great interview.
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If you have an HD camera with removable lens you have to adjust the backfocus as often as you use or move the camera. People new to this issue find it confusing and tend to overlook it but backfocus adjustment is what will make or break your images. The good news is that it’s very easy to take care of. In this video I explain what backfocus is and how you can keep it sharp. The video also showcases the new DSC “Fiddleheads” chart. This video has been used by DSC in demonstrating the use of backfocus charts at SMPTE meetings.
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The camera sees things in a different way than our eyes. For some reason if there is a small imperfection in the face of the subject, say a bit of rough complexion or other skin blemishes, the camera seems to highlight those “blemishes” and bring them to our attention. Makeup corrects this problem and that’s why in the entertainment industry man and women alike go under the hands of expert makeup artists. If you are shooting a feature makeup is a fundamental tool, like costume design and production design, and you need to be aware of its use. In this short video the very talented Isabella describes her process while applying makeup to a model.
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