Cinematography : Preparation by Rich Terdoslavich

Rich Terdoslavich

Preparation

One thing I learn about being a storyboard artist, is to complete the storyboards and email them to the film director, so the cinematographer has the boards in advance in order to prepare the shots. I learned that at RC23 Films, when I worked on the film, BLOOD TAX. It was great working with filmmaker Rory Clarke and was happy to get those boards out so the cinematographer had them in advance. For this job, the previous storyboard artist had quit, so I came in and completed the task. In the end, everything worked out. Looking forward to seeing the film!

Ashley Renee Smith

Thank you for sharing these insights into your process! Preparation is such a crucial part of filmmaking, and it’s always fascinating to hear how different creators approach it.

Please keep sharing—these kinds of posts are invaluable for both experienced creators and those still learning the craft. Looking forward to hearing more about your process in the future!

Rich Terdoslavich

Thanks, Ashley! No sweat. Will, post more. Something I learned on the job. As I mentioned, before the filmmaker had to get another storyboard artist, so I was recommended through a colleague/friend. Worked with the director before in a different capacity, so knew him and workflow/online meetings were great. It has happened to me before, where an opportunity falls in my lap and in the eleventh hour, pull off a successful job. Happened to me in recording session gigs and other art/film jobs too.

Sam Sokolow

I've shared this Hitchcock quote before but it's one of my favorites - "the first day of production is the last day of directing." Preparation is everything and then it'll all about executing the plan created in prep.

Rich Terdoslavich

I hear you, Sam. If I’m not mistaken, I think Hitchcock relied on boards and Scorsese and Ridley Scott illustrate their own boards. I think Kubrick didn’t do boards, but they are all great filmmakers in my book. Also, Kurosawa drew his own illustrations/boards too, I think. Another great master of cinema.

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