Most actors might deny it, but deep down, the camera is their greatest fear. Early in my career as a cinematographer, I noticed how they’d keep a wary distance from cameras and lights, even while respecting technicians working on set. But when I met John Heard on one of my first films, I was surprised when he asked me something no actor had ever asked me before: “What lens is this?” Heard (known for his roles in the Home Alone movies, The Sopranos, and more) wasn’t just curious— he knew more about lenses than I gave him credit for. It wasn’t until the director called “action!” that I realized how Heard incorporated my choice of lens into his performance. Most actors have a basic knowledge of lenses (wide-angle lenses capture more of a scene, while long lenses narrow the view and draw distant subjects closer), but Heard’s performance suggested a more profound understanding. For him, lenses didn’t just define the boundaries of the frame, they were tools that could help evoke an emotional experience. When a wide-angle lens was used to reveal the environment, I watched as Heard engaged with his surroundings and hinted at his character’s relationships. When the camera was positioned close to Heard, I realized that he understood how wide-angle lenses create a sense of closeness for the audience—his subtle gestures made viewers feel as if they were let in on a secret. My method of choosing lenses soon changed—cinematographers consider many reasons when choosing a lens,...
Published By: CineD - Yesterday