Finding the Frame - "The Pitt" Cinematography (feat. Johanna Coelho)

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In this episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh interviews cinematographer Johanna Coelho, known for her work on HBO Max's The Pitt. Coelho discusses her journey from France to Los Angeles, blending French emotional storytelling with American visual language, and how her diverse education at the Sorbonne, AFI, and a French technical school shaped her visual approach. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to different projects, from documentaries to medical dramas, and her role as a "visual psychologist" in interpreting characters' emotions.

Coelho delves into the innovative techniques used on "The Pitt," including a 360-degree set, custom LED lighting, and the use of the Alexa Mini LF camera. She details the challenges and collaborations involved in creating a realistic, continuous 15-hour medical drama, highlighting the meticulous planning and choreography required. She also touches on her concerns and hopes for the future of filmmaking in Los Angeles, and her thoughts on the use of AI in the industry, advocating for its use as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, the cinematographer’s role.

Keep up with Johanna Coelho:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johanna_coelho/

Website: https://www.johannacoelho.com/

Keep up with Finding the Frame host Chris Haigh:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrishaighwriter/

IMDb: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm13352079/credits

0:00 - Intro & Guest Intro

0:37 - Johanna’s Cinematography Journey

1:53 - Early Inspirations & Influences

2:31 - Education & Cinematic Approach

4:21 - Finding Confidence On Set

6:02 - Developing a Visual Style

7:19 - Adapting to Different Genres

10:02 - Cinematography as Psychology

13:17 - Balancing Art & Tech

15:23 - Behind the Scenes The Pitt

18:42 - Working with Production Design

22:36 - Lighting The Pitt

25:09 - Camera Gear & Handheld Setup

30:34 - Filming in a 360° Set

33:36 - Custom LED Camera Lights

35:57 - Choreographing Long Takes

37:30 - Using Background Actors

39:12 - Blending Documentary & Narrative

41:02 - Future Projects & Goals

42:36 - AI in Cinematography

44:17 - Filmmaking in Los Angeles

45:17 - Final Thoughts & Outro