Digital Cinematography & Directing

Dan Ablan

Dec 2002 · New Riders

About this ebook

digital Cinematography and Directing is unlike any other cinematography or directing book you've seen. This book was written entirely for 3D animators. Based on real-world photographic and cinematic principles, it teaches you essential skills and concepts that you can apply to any industry 3D application, such as LightWave 3D, Softimage XSI, 3ds max, CINEMA 4D, Maya, and other leading programs. This book does not focus on using software but rather teaches you how to understand and use the camera within your 3D application.

• Master focal lengths, f-stops, and apertures within your 3D aplication.
• Learn how pre-production planning can guide and enhance your project by applying essential storyboarding techniques.
• Use light as not only an illumination source, but as a tool for cinematic storytelling. Learn how to direct your digital cast with proper staging techniques
"Dan Ablan's years of innovating digital production techniques and his undeniable expertise at teaching CGI, FX, and Film, makes digitalCinematography and Directing a must-have!" -Dave Adams, Dreamworks.

Ratings and reviews

I grabbed this book in interest not specific to 3d/4d animation but in how as a filmmaker I might better involve practices and methodologies for them. It was paced well, I skimmed on parts but ended up going back to tie themes together. There is good detail to information supported by reference data and charts. The basic principal to plan, plan, prepare, plan, collaborate and execute. Will keep as a reference guide for process concept and any future projects I blend CGI or animation.

About the author

Dan Ablan has been involved in the visual arts for more than 20 years. He has worked as photographer, editor, producer, and 3D artist. Currently, Dan is the president of AGA Digital Studios, Inc., located in the Chicago area. AGA Digital Studios, Inc. creates 3D animations and visual effects for film and television, in association with Post Meridian, LLC. Dan is also the author of five other books from New Riders: LightWave Power Guide, Inside LightWave 3D, Inside LightWave 6, LightWave 6.5 Magic, and Inside LightWave 7. Dan has written for LightWave Pro Magazine, Video Toaster User, 3D Magazine, 3D World Magazine, and NewTek Pro Magazine. Dan was a contributor to After Effects 5.5 Magic, and he was also the technical editor for Jeremy Birn's digital Lighting & Rendering, both from New Riders Publishing.