The NYU Graduate Cinematography Department aims to develop students' skills and intuition in finding their own taste in filmmaking.
The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the various roles and responsibilities involved in filmmaking.
The program prioritizes artistic expression and storytelling abilities over keeping up with every technical advancement in the film industry.
Deep dives
The NYU Graduate Cinematography Department
The NYU Graduate Cinematography Department at Tisch School of the Arts offers a three-year program where students can specialize in cinematography. The program aims to develop students' skills and understanding of visual storytelling, using a combination of theoretical and practical approaches. Students learn various aspects of filmmaking, including writing, producing, directing, editing, and sound, in order to gain a well-rounded perspective of the filmmaking process. Throughout the program, students create short films and collaborate with other departments within Tisch, such as acting and design. The program also emphasizes the importance of film history and encourages students to explore various cinematographic styles and techniques from the past. Graduates of the program are prepared to embark on careers as cinematographers and have opportunities to work on a range of projects, including documentaries, music videos, commercials, and feature films.
Curriculum and Structure
During the first three semesters of the program, all students take the same required courses in producing, writing, cinematography, editing, and sound. This provides a foundation in filmmaking and allows students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the various roles and responsibilities involved in the process. In the latter half of the first year, students create a seven-minute film that focuses on visual storytelling and working with actors. In the second year, students work on a 15-minute film, collaborating with their classmates in different roles to gain hands-on experience in filmmaking. The third year of the program is primarily composed of elective courses where students can specialize in their area of interest. They also have opportunities to collaborate with other departments and work on projects such as commercials and music videos. The program culminates in the fourth year with the production of a thesis film, where students have the freedom to choose their cinematographer and work on a project that represents their unique creative vision.
Practical Experience and Industry Connections
Throughout the program, students have opportunities to gain practical experience through hands-on projects, including making short films in various genres and collaborating with other departments. They also have access to industry professionals who visit the school to give lectures and conduct seminars, providing valuable insights and networking opportunities. Some students have the chance to work on professional sets, shooting documentaries and collaborating with experienced cinematographers. The program also emphasizes the importance of networking and encourages students to attend festivals, screenings, and industry events to build connections and showcase their work. Graduates of the program are prepared to enter the industry as cinematographers, equipped with a strong understanding of the craft and a diverse portfolio of work.
Career Paths and Real-World Preparation
Upon graduation, students have a range of career paths available to them as cinematographers. Some may choose to work on independent films, commercials, music videos, documentaries, or television shows. The program emphasizes the importance of networking and encourages students to promote their work and participate in industry events and festivals to gain exposure. While the program provides a strong foundation in cinematography and filmmaking, it is important to note that career success ultimately depends on individual drive, talent, and perseverance. The program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen field, but students must also be proactive and take advantage of opportunities to further their careers. As with any creative field, it is important to continue learning and growing as an artist beyond the classroom.
Keeping up with Technology
The program acknowledges the ever-evolving nature of technology in the film industry and exposes students to new equipment and technologies. They visit facilities like ARRI and Panavision to learn about the latest innovations in camera technology. However, the program focuses more on developing their artistic and storytelling abilities rather than keeping up with every technical advancement. Students are encouraged to focus on their craft and understand the fundamentals of visual storytelling, relying on the support of the technical experts and equipment providers in the industry when necessary. The program prioritizes artistic expression over the latest gadgets and emphasizes that a deep understanding of storytelling and creative vision is ultimately what makes a successful cinematographer.
EPISODE 104 - TONY JANNELLI - Head of Graduate Cinematography Studies at NYU
Team Deakins speaks with cinematographer Tony Jannelli who is the head of the graduate cinematography department at NYU. He walks us through the structure of NYU film school and how the filmmaking is taught. He speaks of how important it is for a young filmmaker to find their own taste and intuition and how NYU works to develop this in their students. After speaking with him, it was clear why so many great filmmakers come out of NYU!
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
