It’s been less than ten years that we’ve seen a complete transformation of the “film” making landscape. Film was far superior to any digital media format. Most of us in school were still being instructed on how to edit on linear tape decks.

It’s been less than ten years that we’ve seen a complete transformation of the “film” making landscape. Film was far superior to any digital media format. Most of us in school were still being instructed on how to edit on linear tape decks.

Of course with hind-sight now, this has all become a thing of the past. I’ve read some intriguing information about the new, or relatively new, Red One digital cinema camera.  Sounds like a very fun toy with remarkable results. 

Purists and cinematographers (who actually know the tools of the film trade) will continue to hold to the look of film over digital.  But on the other hand for the budget strapped media producer, digital cinema is the perfect remedy. Cameras like the Red One represent the cream of the crop, but there are many lower budget alternatives to learn and master the art of visual story telling.  

The challenge that I saw in my education, and perhaps this is evolving, is that we lack the instructors and instruction to create visually stunning cinema without the film stock. Though I will digress and say that one of my first instructors inspired me with the power of good lighting when it came to making the video image transcend the news reporting and sports coverage of which was its typical use.  Lighting and composition are what make for a beautiful shot. Masterfully crafted, this result can be obtained digitally as well.

Perhaps I’m sounding an old horn. But the point is that the tools that once were only to be held by the elite can now be handled by the common man, too. The common man and woman, with a little patience and refinement, can now wield this tool to their command.