SHOTDECK

         Billed as ‘The Industry’s Best Research Tool,’ ShotDeck (www.shotdeck.com) is one of those rare birds that actually lives up to the hype.  A creation of cinematographer Lawrence Sher, ASC, it’s an amazing repository of movie and television images that not only facilitates the creation of decks and look books, but inspires its users in an endless number of ways.

         How comprehensive is it?  As of this writing, the ShotDeck library is made up of 1,792,426 high-res stills derived from 8,210 titles – and it’s constantly growing.  With a fresh drop arriving every Tuesday, it provides a massive collection of feature, streaming, network, documentary, commercial and music video work from which to draw.  This archive is fully searchable and responds quickly, regardless of whether the criteria is specific or vague.  And here’s where Sher’s eye and demanding standards really shine: Every image is faithfully reproduced with a breath-taking quality.  In addition, they’re easily enlargeable and are accompanied by a comprehensive supply of metadata that details every factor relevant to its creation.  I really can’t say enough about the brilliance and usefulness of this resource.  ShotDeck has become an invaluable part of my kit, one that I keep returning to even when I’m not on the job.  I’d recommend it not just to cinematographers but to everyone involved in image creation of any kind.

          New users can take advantage of a free two-week trial; a small subscription fee is required thereafter.  But don’t let that put you off.  If you’re serious about cinematography and want to put your best foot forward, it’s an indispensable must-have.  Caveat emptor: all imitators pale by comparison.

            Check it out and I’m certain you’ll agree: ShotDeck is its own best promotion.  Try it once and you’ll become as quickly hooked as I was!