What is the primary focus of cinematography?

Cinematography primarily concerns the technology and artistic aspect of capturing visual images for a film. This encompasses the use of cameras, lenses, lighting, and composition to create the visual narrative and mood of the story. The cinematographer, often referred to as the director of photography, is responsible for making choices about how a scene is visually represented, impacting the audience's perception and emotional response.

Understanding this field is essential as it lays the groundwork for the overall aesthetic of a film. The choices made in cinematography affect everything from the color palette to the framing of shots, directly influencing how viewers engage with the material. Choices related to lighting, depth of field, and camera movement are also critical in telling the film’s story effectively.

The focus on sound quality relates to audio design, acting falls under performance elements, and editing pertains to post-production processes. Thus, while these facets are vital to filmmaking, they do not fall under the primary scope of cinematography.