Early cinematography certainly had a good footing with the help of the early photography. Judging from the way camera was used, cinematography was considered to be just an extension to the photography, and not a distinct enterprise it is today.
In the âTrip to the Moonâ I have noticed a few techniques that were previously used by photographers in the past. Staging was first used by Bayard in âSelf-Portrait as a Drowned Manâ; set of âbefore and afterâ images was used by Thibault in âRevolution of 1848â; double exposure was used in Spirit Photography; backdrop were used by Rejlander in âThe Two Ways of Lifeâ.
Besides the technical aspects, both photography and cinematography were similar in the goal they were meant to achieve: entertainment and self-expression. Entertainment in the movie, as well in the photography, for instance in âThe Fresh View Agent solicitingâ, is achieved by the storyline. The difference is that in the photography, the narrative and its resolution is often left to the imagination of the viewer, while in the movie it is usually expressed. Self-expression⌠well, thatâs another story.
Aside from all similarities, cinematography is very different due to its limitations, as well as possibilities photography canât offer. Storyline can be extensive, capturing viewerâs attention indefinitely; movie can be as mysterious as a photograph, but more explicit then any still image.
