Shooting Green: The Role of Cinematography in Eco-Pedagogy

Film Education Special Issue 8.1: Film Education and the Environment 

Guest Editors:

Dr. Hunter Vaughan (University of Cambridge)

Dr. Mette Hjort (University of Lincoln)

Dr. Pietari Kääpä (University of Warwick)

Article Title: Notes from the field: Shooting Green: The Role of Cinematography in Eco-Pedagogy 

Abstract

Film production has a significant environmental impact, with an average tentpole film producing 2,840 tons of CO2e (BFI, 2021). At the University of Lincoln, we address this through our BA Film Production curriculum, which integrates sustainable cinematography practices, particularly natural lighting techniques taught in our level 5 module. This not only educates students about environmental benefits but also demonstrates the aesthetic merits of these methods. 

Our BAFTA albert certified training, starting from level 4, instils sustainability at the core of student projects. By 2025-26, we aim for all graduation projects to achieve albert classification, a goal initiated by our 2023-24 cohort’s success in producing a classified film through sustainable practices like repurposing resources. 

The effectiveness of our training is gauged by the growing number of graduation projects attaining albert carbon-neutral classification. Although the digital transition poses questions about camera production and media storage sustainability, it also presents opportunities for using technologies like the Arri Alexa, which is conducive to low-light cinematography. 

This chapter will provide insights into embedding sustainable practices within our curriculum and how our academic research informs undergraduate and postgraduate modules. It will also reference Mind-Set (Murray, 2022), a University of Lincoln project exemplifying sustainable themes and practices. 

In conclusion, our graduates are becoming sustainability leaders in the film industry. By exposing them to climate change challenges and the creative possibilities of natural light cinematography, as seen in Nomadland (Zhao, 2020) and Mind-Set (Murray, 2022), we are nurturing the next generation of innovators. 

BFI (2021) A screen new deal. A route map to sustainable film production. BFI 

Murray, M. (dir.) (2022) Mind-Set [film]. Middleman Productions 

Zhao, C. (dir) (2020) Nomadland [film]. Searchlight Pictures