You're torn between tradition and innovation in video production. How do you find the perfect balance?

In my years as a cinematographer, I've learned to appreciate the roots of filmmaking. I often find inspiration in classic films, carefully studying their composition, lighting, and camera movements. For instance, when working on a project with a noir aesthetic say a short file shot in black and white theme, I use low-key lighting and dramatic shadows reminiscent of 1940s cinema. This not only pays tribute to the greats of the past but also lays a strong foundation for storytelling that deeply connects with audiences.

Balancing tradition and innovation in video production can be tricky. One effective way to achieve this is by honoring roots. Recognize and appreciate the time-tested techniques and principles that form the foundation of your craft. These traditional methods provide a reliable framework that ensures quality and consistency. At the same time, embrace innovation. Integrate new technologies and creative approaches to enhance your work. By respecting the roots of your craft while staying open to innovation, you can create videos that are both timeless and contemporary, appealing to a wide audience and standing out in a competitive market.

I have found that embracing new technology is essential in my line of work. I use tools such as stabilized gimbals and drones, allowing me to create more dynamic and creative shots. In a recent nature documentary-style video for an NGO on planting trees to regrow forest receding in Palakkad village, Kerala, I combined traditional tripod shots with dynamic drone footage shot in FPV to capture the stillness and beauty of landscapes, providing viewers with a more captivating experience.

The perfect blend of traditional and modern techniques is truly an art form. Recently, for a video project featuring a Christian religious band, I combined traditional three-point lighting with modern LED panels. This approach helped us achieve an authentic look while also giving us the freedom to tweak colors during post-production. The end result was a visually stunning and historically authentic final product.

radition offers a foundation of proven techniques that ensure quality and reliability. These time-honored methods provide a solid starting point for any project. Innovation, on the other hand, injects creativity and modernity into your work. Embrace new technologies and trends to stay relevant and engaging. The perfect balance lies in combining these elements thoughtfully. Use traditional techniques as your backbone and infuse innovative ideas where they enhance the story. By blending wisely, you create videos that are both rooted in quality and fresh with creativity.

I always like to check how my choices are working out so that I can keep growing. I'm big on asking for feedback from directors, editors, and even test audiences whenever I can. There was this one project where I tried out a bold, high-contrast look. It looked super cool, but I found out from feedback that it was taking away from the story. So, I decided to dial it back and find a better balance that would enhance the story without stealing the show.

I think it's important to be adaptable in my work. I like to customize my approach for each project's unique requirements. For an upbeat music video, I enjoy using imaginative methods such as variable frame rates and unconventional camera movements. However, when working on a personal documentary interview, I lean towards a more classic setup that helps the interviewee feel at ease and emphasizes their story.

One essential strategy is to educate yourself continually. Understanding the foundations of traditional techniques provides a solid base, while staying informed about the latest technological advancements keeps your work fresh and competitive. Engage in workshops, read industry publications, and follow leading innovators to expand your knowledge. This dual approach ensures you can blend time-tested methods with cutting-edge trends, creating videos that honor tradition while embracing the future.