Cinematography : Prime lens and achieving cinematic look in low light by Rome Mubarak

Rome, what's the make / model of your camera? Specifics will help those answering.

Canon EOS 80D. I read that I could use firmware (lantern?) to configure it to shoot 4k (although manually I could push the is to 4000 but that's not quite the same thing under different lighting conditions ). I have also been looking at sigma prime lenses (f/1.8 15-35mm) or some other lens within budget.

I think together with the firmware, a solid prime lens and the app. you told me about, I could be winning. Even looking at sliders too but there are so many and elkhorn is the best but price is crazy!!!!

Your reply is a bit confusing. You mention the Canon 80D, then go on to mention a solid prime lens and the FilmicPro app. The 80D it has nothing to do with the FilmicPro app. The app is for smartphones or tablets. What is the end product envisioned for your short? Theatrical? BD? DVD? Online viewing? Shooting 2K will win your the race in all these areas, and it's going to be compressed down for any BD, DVD or online streaming, and it can still be played in a theater (unless the theater wants a BD disc). I've shot things with friends at 720 and 1080 that looked amazing using 18-55mm lens and 85mm lens. Don't overthink the technology.

Yep, I think I might be doing that. I certainly want to keep it all in perspective including my pocket book. Lol!

Yes, online viewing (probably youtube) as my primary focus is using whatever I produce to go with packaging (script, log line, etc) to production companies. A proof of concept really.

I have been in debate with myself between using my Canon or going with the upgrade android and using that to shoot with. It seems there are different advantages with having both. Having discussion with you helps me narrow it down to be honest.

I always recommend to anyone making a short (and I don't know if this is your first one or not) to do this simple exercise: grab a smartphone, tablet or point and shoot camera and film someone making a cup of coffee. Don't worry to much about lighting or audio, and edit it on iMovie or MovieMaker (PC). Just make it interesting. You'll quickly learn composition and editing. Then do it again using another person.

Unfortunately production companies do not back shorts. So save yourself time and figure out a way to do it. Get your friends and use their skills and equipment.

I've used the Canon line before from the Rebel T2i, to the 5D Mk III, and up. All are solid and I wouldn't hesitate to use them again.

By the way the movie "Tangerine" (2015) was shot using iPhone 5s and the FilmicPro app (it's actually quite good both in story and technically and available on Netflix). Bentley Automotive shot a commercial using the iPhone 5s as well with the FilmicPro app. Plus you've seen the work on the FilmicPro site.

Yep I saw that film. Pretty amazing. Which do you prefer- DSLR or phone?

Depends on what I'm doing and the complexity since I don't own any cameras.

So Lindbergh are you using any zoom lens on exterior scenes that may be far away?

It depends on what I'm doing, and that will determine what lenses the DP will use. Don't confuse a zoom in with a push in, and don't confuse a using a zoom lens for a close up v. doing a close up. Grab a DP and work together with s/he to get your desired results.

I was just reviewin the movie "Get Out" and to date it grossed over 235 million at the box office. It took Peale 5 years to pull it off. Not sure why it took so long as the cenimatography was rather simple in comparison to say "Moonlight" and other releases this year. I will be attending two Cannon Production workshops in Burbank this summer in the hopes of scoring on good skills in this arena.