Cinematographer and director of photography in Los Angeles
A film’s visual language is built through decisions about light, composition, movement and perspective. BY THE HILLS offers cinematography in Los Angeles for directors, producers and creative teams developing commercial, brand and independent film projects.
If you are looking for a freelance DP, share the script or treatment and the production stage. We can discuss how the visual approach supports the story and what the shoot needs to make that approach achievable.
Discuss cinematography for your production
Translate a creative idea into a camera approach
Visual references and shot planning
References are most useful when they reveal a specific intention: a quality of light, a relationship to the subject or a feeling of movement. We discuss those choices alongside the director’s priorities, locations, schedule and expected coverage.
Lighting and location decisions
The available space, practical light, time of day and access all influence the image. Establishing those constraints early helps determine what can be achieved on location and where preparation or additional resources may be needed.
Camera movement and continuity
Movement should serve the scene. A restrained interview, an energetic performance and a product sequence call for different decisions about framing, lenses and coverage. The plan should also give the editor material that connects across shots.
Work within your production structure
Tell us which roles are already covered and who is responsible for production, sound, art direction and post-production. The scope can then distinguish cinematography from the other work needed to complete the film.
If you need development and delivery of the whole project, visit video production. For a campaign organized around a brand or product, see commercial production. Aerial footage can be discussed through drone cinematography.
Review the visual work
The portfolio includes brand, performance and promotional material. Look at composition, atmosphere and camera movement as well as the subject matter. View selected work and share the pieces that relate to your brief.
What information helps define a DP booking?
Send the treatment or script, director’s references, shoot dates, locations, expected crew and intended camera workflow. A preliminary shot list and schedule help frame a useful conversation about scope.