If you consistently use the viewfinder, you’ll come to know the aesthetic characteristics of specific focal lengths-the field of view, perspective, and how all of that can affect motion through the Z-axis. The viewfinder lets you see what the framing of a shot will be like depending on the given lens and shooting format. The viewfinder is a small viewing glass that bears a resemblance to a telescope.

This is where the director’s viewfinder comes into play. Therefore, readjusting the camera for the sake of your curiosity isn’t going to sit well with the crew. However, unlike the short films where you controlled everything and could quickly switch to live view on your mirrorless camera to see every possible shot composition, you may now be on a more extensive set with a cinema camera, which would take a few crew members just to change the position of the camera. After weeks of thought, you decide that you want to be a director-your vision will be the film’s soul. As you creatively grow, you’ll find that you suit one role more than the other. Image via Alan Gordon.Īs an indie filmmaker, it’s not uncommon to be the director, cinematographer, editor, and even the writer of your film. Indeed, that would up the game, right? The Pocket Mini Director’s Viewfinder. However-and I say, however-what if you had a director’s viewfinder. Or, perhaps you’re watching the behind-the-scenes footage to Blade Runner and see the DOP using a light meter and think, “If I had one of those, my cinematography could reach new levels.” When, in most cases, you just need to spend more time with the gear you already own. We see online creators touting the latest Canon lens, and we think, “If I had that, I could do the same shots, too.” The point is, in this digital age, we all tend to acquire a lot of filmmaking and photography equipment that we may not need. You have that power, too- Return of the Jedi, anyone?

Gear acquisition syndrome, also known as GAS. Let’s explore the director’s viewfinder, the various options available to you, and budget-friendly tips to apply to your next project.

Director viewfinder