In this special episode of the CineD FocusCheck Podcast, host Nino welcomes back filmmaker, educator, and author Tal Lazar for a wide-ranging conversation about what cinematography really is — and what it needs to become in an age of rapidly evolving technology. Tal’s new book, Cinematography: Beyond Technique, challenges a long-standing assumption in filmmaking: that mastering cameras, lenses, and lighting is enough. Drawing on over 15 years of teaching at institutions such as AFI, Sundance, and FilmLab, Tal argues that cinematography lives in the space between intention and execution — not in technology itself. Together, Nino and Tal explore: Why great images don’t automatically make great films How directors and cinematographers often talk past each other on set What blocking rehearsals reveal about hidden gaps in film education Why lenses, lighting, and framing are storytelling tools — not technical checklists And how AI forces filmmakers to re-examine creative intention, not just workflow The conversation also tackles one of today’s most controversial topics: AI in filmmaking. Referencing recent statements by Roger Deakins and drawing parallels to the Canon 5D revolution, Tal explains why resisting new tools outright is rarely productive — but why giving up creative intention is far more dangerous. This episode is not about choosing sides between “traditional” and “modern” filmmaking. It’s about understanding the language of images deeply enough to make deliberate, meaningful choices — regardless of the tools involved. Whether you’re a director, cinematographer, producer, or educator, this episode offers a thoughtful, practical perspective on collaboration, visual storytelling, and the future of the craft. Chapters and Articles in This Episode (00:00:57) – Welcome & Introduction Nino welcomes viewers to the special episode and introduces Tal Lazar and the topic of his new book. (00:02:06) – Tal Lazar, Cinematography Beyond Technique & Teaching Background Tal’s background as a filmmaker and educator and how the book grew out of 15 years of teaching. (00:05:35) – Visual Storytelling, “The Reading,” and Cinematic Intention Using painting and visual examples to explain how audiences identify story and main characters. (00:09:02) – What Makes a Great Cinematographer Technical skill, clarity of intention, communication, and common misunderstandings on set. (00:14:13) – Directors, DPs, and Collaboration on Set Blocking rehearsals, overlapping responsibilities, and why collaboration improves films. (00:20:45) – How Directors and Cinematographers Should Communicate What productive creative conversations sound like versus ineffective ones. (00:25:31) – Lighting and Lenses as Storytelling Tools Lighting as observation and language; lenses, perspective, intimacy, and emotional distance. (00:38:19) – AI, Roger Deakins, and Creative Intention AI as a tool versus a threat, and what reactions reveal about how cinematography is understood. (00:49:45) – Lessons from the Canon 5D Era & the Future of AI Parallels between past camera revolutions and today’s AI-driven changes. (01:13:51) – Practical Advice & Key Takeaways How filmmakers should embrace technology without sacrificing intention; final thoughts and wrap-up. We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com
