Students are naturally curious about lighting and camera techniques, but they should also pay attention to how they supervise their crew. Mastering leadership traits may not seem an important part of the cinematographer’s tool kit, but it’s as vital to our success as anything else we do.
Much of it can be summed up in a simple term: decentralized command. This means hiring the best department heads you can find, and rather than micromanaging them, setting them free to do what they do best. Some of us have a hard time letting go to such an extent, but that merely shows a lack of humility and maturity. Be clear about what you want them to do, but don’t tell them how to do it. Just stay out of the way and offer guidance when necessary. People will surprise you when empowered like this, and you’ll be certain to reap the benefits. By encouraging their initiative, you’ll also be building trust – which is the cornerstone of every successful relationship.
Exercising a light touch will also spark a higher level of creativity. Admit it: you’ll never know all there is to know. Ideas can come from the least likely places, and sometimes, the opposite of a good one turns out to be a better one. Give this concept the consideration it deserves and you’ll see the results onscreen – guaranteed.
This is such valuable advice!
Especially when young, we sometimes feel the pressure to show that we know everything and need to make our mark.
But when you have the opportunity to—for example—be paired with a kind & experienced gaffer, you quickly learn the value of having experts around you, who are willing to work with you and make everyones work better.