The DP, credited as the director of photography or cinematographer, depending on their choice, is the most important creative the director will work with on a project. The director’s creative partner for the journey ahead is always the DP.
Talent Comes Second
Some directors make the mistake of trying to secure the DP that comes with kit, or the most talented one based on their reels. That is never going to guarantee the end result. A DP can have all the kit in the world, and be extremely talented, but it is does not mean they are right for you.
A director must choose their DP based on personality.
DPs are talented. It is a given. But you need the one that fits your own unique dynamic. The one that understands you as a filmmaker. You instantly feel a shared creative chemistry. A bond that generates mutual trust.
You can work with ten different DP’s in a row, but only one or two will best fit your personality and preference for creative work. The other eight DP’s will all be talented, but they will be best suited for other directors.
The great projects are the ones where an audience can see the creative minds of the director and dp working in harmony together. A shared creative vision that
It is a creative personality match game. Talent comes second.
Establish Communication
One of the key elements for a successful prep and shoot is that you have an agreed communication system. If you disagree on set about something, have a communication technique in place to discuss it between the two of you. A signal or sign that a quiet word is needed. It maintains the element of respect that is essential for a relaxed set.
The DP is the key to bringing your directing vision to the screen, so communicate with them at every step of the way so they can best understand every thought process you have for the vision needed.
Put the DP behind your eyes and listening to your creative heart.
Nurturing the Bond
It is all too easy to immediately start talking about the project. Focusing in on the shot list and mood boards. But DPs are not robots with cameras. They are people. Talk to them. Get to know them as people. What makes them tick or laugh? What are their own influences? Do they have a family? What are some of their own personal loves in film and TV? To accomplish this, arrange to sit down for a coffee and agree not to talk about the project you might be working on together. Keep that off the table.
This getting to know you period is invaluable as you go on the creative journey together, because you’ve got their back, the same way they have yours, So, if you can make the effort to get to know each other well first, the work will invariably be better for it.