Roger Deakins, renowned cinematographer for iconic films like No Country for Old Men and Blade Runner 2049, shares his insights on the craft of cinematography. Despite earning 14 Oscar nominations, he confesses that explaining what he does is a challenge.
Deakins began as a still photographer but found his true calling in cinematography through collaborations with directors. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, working with “hundreds of people” to create visually stunning scenes.
Co-written with his wife James Ellis Deakins, Roger’s new book Reflections: On Cinematography delves into the art of cinematography. The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at his projects throughout his career, highlighting the process of creating immersive visual stories.
Deakins stresses the significance of specificity and intentionality in filmmaking. He prefers to strip away unnecessary elements, focusing on capturing the essence of a scene rather than announcing it with flashy camera movements or excessive lighting.
As the film industry evolves, Deakins expresses concerns about the reliance on digital technologies that can lead to oversaturation and flat visuals. He believes that human experience is essential in filmmaking, and the art of cinematography should not be lost amidst technological advancements.
With his book reflecting his passion for the craft, Deakins aims to demystify the film industry for newcomers. The couple’s podcast and website aim to provide a platform for open discussions about filmmaking, while maintaining a sense of perspective on what truly matters – the art of storytelling.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/feb/08