A Man with a Camera

by Nestor Almendros

This book, translated the Spanish by Rachel Belash describes the descriptions of techniques, solution and moviemaking by one of the world's leading cinematographers,(Nestor Almendros) including reflections on his work on over 40 films and sketches of major directors and actors.

Genres: Film, Biography, Nonfiction, Art, Photography

Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

Reviews

[Paul Secor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nestor Almendros worked as a cinematographer on a number of my favorite films, so I looked forward to reading this book. Unfortunately, almost all of his comments are about the camera work and lighting he did on the films, and I expected more than that. If you're interested in cinematography, this may be a book you'll want to read. If you want to find out about directors, actors, and what went on behind the scenes in the various films he worked on - and he worked on many interesting to great films - you'll have to look elsewhere.

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spanish cinematographer Nestor Almendros's this biography styled book is undoubtedly a gem for all people interested in cinema.

In his book Nestor puts his thoughts about cinema, the responsibilities of cinematographer and how contemporary cinematographers should find different ways of taking pictures by looking classics and several other art forms.

He puts the importance of using natural light where today's cinema overly uses fake stage lights. Also the importance of using light techniques in paintings like Vermeer, Rembrandt or Monet.

Through the book Nestor honestly and very openly shares his techniques on how to solve problems in different situations. I purchased the book mainly for obtaining some unknown facts about Eric Rohmer but also very much enjoyed about his whole filmography.

Nestor's writing style is so honest and written in a very common language without stucking in too much jargon. Very easy read and his honest voice is to natural that you get the feeling of a casual talking with him.

[Andrew Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the greatest cinematographers, Almendros is also a good storyteller. The book - each film prefaced by a beautiful still - is peppered with anecdotes and observations about the relevant filmmakers. It's a delight and a must-read for any and all cinephiles. I wish it was longer - and still in print! - but regardless what we have is a lovely testament to Almendros' skill.

[Armando · Rating 3 out of 5]

Leyenda de la cinefotografía, el español Néstor Almendros realiza en Días de una cámara una revisión a su filmografía desde la siempre interesante perspectiva de un director de fotografía; anécdotas y datos de su trabajo con Eric Rohmer, François Truffaut, Barbet Schroeder y Terrence Malick, enriquecen un texto imprescindible para entender el oficio de un cinefotógrafo. Artesano de la luz natural y ganador de un premio Oscar, Almendros profundiza en cada página sobre las inestables e imprevisibles funciones del director de fotografía dentro del set: si en las grandes producciones la paternidad de la cinefotografía es dudosa, en el cine independiente el director de foto puede inmiscuirse en la naturaleza del encuadre mismo, el uso del color y los movimientos de cámara. Un libro que además de ser útil (funcionando como un manual preciso), resulta conmovedor en el manejo de un lenguaje que delata vigoroso amor a la profesión, al cine y la luz.

[Alex Pérez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un libro imprescindible para cualquier profesional o amante del buen cine. El libro es ameno de leer y Nestor Almendros comparte un montón de ideas sobre cómo él entiende la fotografía cinematográfica así como anécdotas de los directores, las películas y los actores y actrices con las que ha trabajado.

Nestor Almendros es un grande a la altura de directores de fotografía como Storaro o Nykvist.

[Nguyên Nguyễn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ate this book up.
A great insider’s look into the art of cinematography.
Inspiring to hear the stories of Mr. Almendros’s biography and career in film.

[Ietrio · Rating 2 out of 5]

Moronic, self-important title. The text is not much better than the title.

[HéctorSubi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muy interesante diría que incluso para los cinéfilos a los que no les interese especialmente la fotografía.

[Enrique · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5/5.

[Carlos · Rating 3 out of 5]

Muy, muy interesante libro sobre cine, sin pretender en ningún momento sumergirse en la técnica más allá de ciertas anotaciones. Destaca la importancia de la sencillez y la búsqueda de naturalidad a la hora de iluminar. Además, un recorrido por el mejor cine europeo: Rohmer, Truffaut, etc. Sorprende ver que que unas pocas personas están detrás de tantas obras maravillosas. Un detalle mejor, la descripción del carácter de un amigo (hablando sobre Truffaut).

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love this book, Nestor Almendros writing, his simplicity, his way to work with lighting, his work, all the movies he talks about...
I have defenitely discover someone who I really admire and respect.

[Aaron Hollander · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent technical and logical overview of every film Almendros made, up to the printing of this book.