I wanted to share this video because it’s a fascinating look at how cinematography choices evolve when a director and DP are discovering the film as they’re making it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fX7HsKxTIA
The breakdown dives into the collaboration with Yorgos Lanthimos on Bugonia and how the visual language was shaped in real time, from format and lens choices to lighting philosophy and camera movement. What really stood out to me is how much of this process is about creating the conditions for discovery, rather than locking everything down in advance.
It really highlights how cinematography isn’t just about gear, it’s about responsiveness, restraint, and trust.
I’d love to hear from the Cinematography Lounge:
How often do you lock your visual language in prep versus discovering it on set?
Have technical limitations ever improved your work?
Do you prefer camera movement to follow actors, or actors to be choreographed for camera?
This is one of those great reminders that cinematography is as much about listening as it is about planning. Curious how others here approach that balance.
