MOVIE MATTERS
ASK THE EXPERTS
Our experts explainwhy physical filters still have a crucial role to play in modern filmmaking and are casting an eye over the treasure trove of vintage lenses that are currently enjoying a renaissance
WHYWOULD I USE TRADITIONAL FILTERS?
polarizing filter will be able to do that for you. Secondly, physical filters give the cinematographer more control over the final image. All too often the cinematographer has moved on to the next production and isn’t involved in the final edit. This combination means that others could be in a position to alter the look, but if optical filter effects are in the mix the vision of the DOP is much more likely to make it into the final result. Thirdly, the use of physical filters saves time and money. A basic feature of optical filters is that, once used, the cinematographer’s job of creating the effect is done. Filters provide the look you want in-camera without the need to spend additional resources in post. When looked at this way, there isn’t much else that so effectively combines ease of use with the powerful ability to impart the
RIGHT Using a polarizing filter cuts out reflections that can’t otherwise be removed. BELOW A radiant soft filter adds a subtle touch of soft focus to film footage.
Piet Thiele, product manager for cine and film, Schneider- Kreuznach
In this modern digital age what role might physical filters have to play for the filmmaker? To get to the heart of the matter, these are the three key reasons to consider when creating visual effects in the camera with filters: First, the greatest latitude for creative opportunities comes from having the real world as your source. In the real world you have infinite potential to control the image, as you have so much more information available that you will never have later. Take the use of a polarizer, for example. You cannot remove reflections in post to make things visible behind a window or water surface, but a
greatest impact to your images as the simple use of camera filters. “In the real world you have infinite potential to control the image”
Piet Thiele is product manager for Schneider-Kreuznach, with a remit to look after Schneider’s extensive range of optical filters aimed at the filmmaking industry. schneiderkreuznach.com
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