The ASC/AC Book Fair: Where Legends Share Their Secrets
The art of cinematography is a captivating journey, and the ASC Clubhouse in Hollywood became its epicenter on November 12. The ASC/American Cinematographer Book Fair brought together a community of passionate individuals, from ASC members to film students, all eager to immerse themselves in the world of visual storytelling.
Sponsored by Nanlux, Cinelease, and Band Pro, the event unveiled exciting initiatives. Nanlux’s Lending Library, a program that has been empowering film students from prestigious institutions like USC, UCLA, AFI, and Chapman, is now open to a broader audience. Anyone with a COI can access this treasure trove of equipment, as emphasized by Amanda Fritz, the founder of Lending Library.
But here’s where it gets inspiring: the day began with a conversation with the legendary Team Deakins—Roger Deakins, ASC, BSC, and his creative partner and wife, James Ellis Deakins. Moderated by ASC 1st Vice President Eric Steelberg, the discussion celebrated the release of Roger’s book, ‘Reflections on Cinematography.’ The conversation delved into Roger’s extraordinary journey, from his art student days to becoming a two-time Academy Award-winning cinematographer. And the audience was treated to a behind-the-scenes look at their groundbreaking work on the Coen brothers’ ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’—a digital adventure that demanded intricate file management and showcased James’ problem-solving prowess.
A cinematographer’s journey is a shared experience. Eric Steelberg’s preparation for the talk led him to a profound realization: Roger’s struggles and triumphs are not unique. They are the common threads that bind cinematographers together. It’s a humbling reminder that even the most celebrated artists face similar challenges.
The Book Fair buzzed with excitement as attendees lined up to meet Team Deakins and get their books signed. But the event offered more than just autographs; it was a celebration of storytelling. ASC members, including Hiro Narito and Roy Wagner, signed their own books, each offering unique insights into the craft. Wagner’s book, in particular, focuses on surviving Hollywood, sharing his 55-year journey of doing things his way.
And this is the part most people miss: while technical knowledge is vital, it’s the application of that knowledge in service of storytelling that truly matters. Team Deakins emphasized this during their talk, reminding us that cinematography is about bringing stories to life. This sentiment resonated with camera operator Keith Jefferies, who appreciated the focus on storytelling over just creating pretty images.
Team Deakins is renowned for their transparency, as evidenced by their podcast and website. Their willingness to share their filmmaking secrets is a testament to their commitment to the community. ASC 2nd Vice President John Simmons echoed this, praising Roger’s generosity in sharing his expertise.
In the spirit of giving back, Team Deakins and the ASC continue to foster a collaborative environment. Roger and James believe in paying it forward, ensuring that the ASC remains a beacon for aspiring cinematographers. The event showcased the power of community and the enduring impact of storytelling in the world of cinematography.
What do you think about the role of storytelling in cinematography? Do you agree that it’s the heart of the craft, or do you have a different perspective?