It’s 30+ years of cinematography experience packed into a single source.


Jay Holben’s SHOT CRAFT column has always been an excellent resource for students and professionals alike. Now that it’s assembled into a comprehensive book, it would be my first recommended read to a cinematographer who is starting their career. This book not only covers (in fantastic detail) cinematography technique, but also the creative thinking behind its use.
— Erik Messerschmidt, ASC (Academy Award Winner Mank, Ferrari, The Killer, Mindhunter)
The perfect book for all cinematographers, aspiring and working. Filled to the brim with detailed analysis of the craft.
— Colin Watkinson, ASC, (The Handmaid’s Tale, Emerald City, Entorage).
Jay Holben’s thoughtful attention to detail and technique continues to shine in this insightful compilation of lessons highlighting the depth behind our craft for any level of filmmaker to appreciate.
— Autumn Durald Arkapaw, ASC (Loki, Black Panther Wakanda Forever)
[Shot Craft] is always the best part of [American Cinematographer] magazine!
— Markus Förderer, ASC BVK (Red Notice, Bliss, Independence Day: Resurgence, The Colony)
Jay Holben leaves no stone unturned, no onion unpeeled, when researching, testing, and analyzing some cinematographic technique or concept, often replacing decades-old half-truths with more scientifically accurate descriptions...
— M. David Mullen, ASC (Emmy and ASC Award Winner, Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Westworld, Mad Men)
I stand by the assertion that between his books, articles and in-person teachings, [Holben] is one of the most important and influential educators in the world of modern cinematography.
— Jayson Crothers, (Cruel Summer, Chicago Fire, Station 19, American Traitor: The Trial of Axis Sally)
An absolute must for all lens geeks and cinematography buffs. Shot Craft is a treasure trove...!
— Duclos Lenses
MacGyver-like solutions for on-set challenges, and invaluable bits of wisdom useful to both aspiring filmmakers and seasoned veterans. In short, this book is a goldmine for anyone pursuing a career in filmmaking.
— Stephen Pizzello, Editor-in-Chief, American Cinematographer Magazine

Adakin Press
345 pages
6” x 9”
Paperback
80 Articles from the first five years of American Cinematographer’s SHOT CRAFT column by Jay Holben

Cover Price: $75 USD

Chapters include:
Fundamental Concepts
Formats
Exposure
Lighting & Electricity
Optics
Travel & Locations
Filmmaking Techniques
Relationships, Communication & Career

A collection of Jay Holben’s SHOT CRAFT articles from American Cinematographer magazine. A treasured series of educational pieces on the art and science of cinematography.

An extraordinary book for the film student and refresher for the seasoned pro - SHOT CRAFT is written in an easy-to-read tone that explains the technical and complicated in simple language. It is a collection of lessons, tips & techniques that is a must-have for everyone working in the art of visual storytelling in motion pictures.

This book features a curated selection from the first five yeas of this monthly column providing insights on: cinematography fundamentals, formats, exposure, lighting & electricity, optics, travel & locations, filmmaking techniques, relationships, communication & career.  

For more - Subscribe to American Cinematographer Magazine and catch a new SHOT CRAFT every month!

And checkout some of SHOT CRAFT online at: https://theasc.com/blog/shot-craft

More info from the ASC: https://theasc.com/news/new-shot-craft-book-explores-multiple-aspects-of-camerawork

For more on Holben’s other writings - check out here.


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