A crucial part of filmmaking lies in preparation during pre-production. Developing an idea of what a film will look and feel like takes some deep thinking. Creating a film lookbook is a great way to compile all of these thoughts into one place for your benefit and the benefit of the entire film crew. In this article, we’ll take a look at the components of a lookbook, some film lookbook examples, and how to make a film lookbook.
Feature film lookbook
Defining a lookbook
The lookbook is a tool used in various industries from fashion to film to business. Much like a pitch deck, a film lookbook is distinct in what is included in the book and what it is designed to do. Let’s take a look at the definition to better understand how to use and create one.
Feature film lookbook
What is a lookbook?
A lookbook is a collection of movie stills, photographs, or any other visuals that are compiled to illustrate a filmmaker’s vision for a film. A lookbook functions as a reference for how a film will look and feel from various cinematic elements such as cinematography, production design, or casting.
Most lookbooks aim to visually communicate ideas and concepts for things like colors, lighting styles, moods, and other referential visuals.
What is a lookbook used for?
How to make a film lookbook
What is a lookbook used for?
Lookbooks are a great tool for filmmakers to use for multiple reasons. The visual blueprint that a lookbook provides benefits the cinematographer, director, and the entire film crew.
Asking the important questions
First and foremost, a lookbook is used to benefit you as the filmmaker whatever role you are in. The process of creating a lookbook entails asking yourself the important questions. For example, when creating a cinematography lookbook, you might ask these questions:
What type of mood should the lighting create? How can different compositional techniques help tell the story? What type of camera should I use? What type of lenses will be best?
The process of creating a lookbook will force you to answer these questions and create a more cohesive and detailed game plan during Pre-Production.
Collaborating with the director
Once you are able to assemble a lookbook that you are happy with, you’ll present it to the director and possibly producers. This will enable you all to collaborate and work out any differences.
Directors lookbook examples
The lookbook is especially important during his part because it provides real visuals rather than wordy explanations. This will also ensure that you and your director are on the same page before heading into production.
Reference for shotlisting and storyboarding
Another function of the lookbook is to be a resource that you can come back to when you are stuck or at a blank. This is especially helpful when creating a shotlist or storyboard.
Check out why cinematographer Bradford Young uses lookbooks for his own benefit and for the benefit of others.
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