A Director of Photography with several projects under her sleeve
Eunicet Pamela is a Director of Photography based in Los Angeles, her work has been
screened in worldwide festivals like Film Festival of Documentary and Popular Science
Films in Russia, Immersive Film Festival 2017 in Brazil, BELIFF in London and more.
What personality or character traits are necessary to excel in being a
cinematographer/DP?
More than personality I would say certain skills that you have to develop like patience, is
one of the most important I think, you work under a lot of pressure and you still have to
deliver an excellent work. Also being on a film set requires working with a lot of people
so you have to be a leader and manage every situation with a calm and respectful way.ç
Beside that you have to understand that film sets move quickly so as a
Cinematographer you have to make decisions in the moment without losing your
creative vision.
What makes good cinematography?
When you as a Cinematographer understand the importance of the script you can
develop the right look and tone for it. That’s good Cinematography, you don’t have to
achieve more than the story, the camera, the lighting, the movement have to go
according to the story and if that takes more attention than the script then you are on
the wrong path.
What makes a good camera? And what has been your favorite camera to
use?
I’ve used many cameras but my favorite is the Sony Venice, the menu is very user
friendly and you can set it up as you like and you can use the Rialto mode, that basically
parts the camera in 2 s you can use in small places, beside the dynamic range is
amazing that allows you to shoot day and night without any problems on crushing your
black and blowing your highlights.
What is the cinematographer’s involvement in pre-production, production
and post-production?
We always come in the middle of the preproduction to have extensive talks with the
Director about the script, their vision and how they want to portray the story. Also it is
very important to be on the same page as the Production Designer , the person that will
help you to build the world of the script. At this moment we decide the mode and tone
overall of the film. Then the Production starts and after shooting I always like to get
involved in the Color Correction process, this is vital because at this moment you can
change everything and mostly with digital cameras. Here is where I make sure that my
visual choices stay in the same way and enhance the story.
What is your most valuable advice for being a Cinematographer/DP?
My main advice is to collaborate as much as you can because you never know who you
are going to meet and people talk about your projects so always give the best of you
and prepare as much as you can. Pre. production is essential because it is where you
can find solutions for all your problems in terms of finding equipment, lighting
techniques, and creative choices.