The Word ‘Cinematic’ is Meaningless. Stop Using It.
Want to instantly confuse (/infuriate) your videographer? Tell them that you want the video to be cinematic.
Wait… why would this be confusing? Don’t they know what I mean?
No. We literally have no clue what the hell you’re talking about. We know the literal definition of the word — “like a movie” — but the term itself is meaningless without context because movies come in all kinds of styles:
A handheld sunset shot can be cinematic.
A long take with lots of elaborate, yet calculated, camera movement can be cinematic.
Loud music — or no music at all — can be cinematic.
Dramatic lighting can be cinematic. So can soft lighting.
Every creative has their own aesthetic preferences (and let’s be honest — they’re more like fetishes). Whether it’s moody color grading, lens flares, punchy editing rhythms, or fancy speed-warp transitions, your videographer will inject their style into your project unless you clearly communicate your vision.
So here’s how to get exactly what you want:
Gather specific resources: movies, TV shows, web videos, photographs, songs. Pick examples that match your desired feeling and style.
SHOW. Don’t just tell. Visual references speak louder than vague adjectives. Share them directly with your creative team.
Leverage AI when needed. If words fail, tools like ChatGPT can help articulate the mood and visuals you’re after. But visuals always win.
Ultimately, there will always be some creative tension. You have a vision and so do I. My job as your videographer is to bridge those visions, ensuring the final video resonates deeply with you and your audience.
