Hey Reader,

This week, I'm exploring how to create depth in flat environments, sharing a quick evaluation technique that will improve your footage quality, and recommending a series with stunning cinematography.

This Week's Frame

Key Takeaway: How to create depth in flat environments through layering.

One of the biggest challenges in filmmaking is making 2D footage feel three-dimensional. Even when shooting in visually limited spaces, you can create a sense of depth through intentional layering.

The secret is to think in terms of three distinct planes:

• Foreground: Elements closest to the camera that frame your subject. These create immediate depth and can guide the viewer's eye. Try positioning objects partially in frame, using doorways, or even shooting through translucent materials.
• Midground: Your primary subject typically lives here. This is where your story unfolds, but it shouldn't exist in isolation.
• Background: The environment behind your subject that provides context and atmosphere. Even a simple wall can be transformed with thoughtful lighting, shadows, or subtle movement.

When all three layers work together, even the flattest location gains dimension. Next time you're setting up a shot, ask yourself: "What can I add to the foreground to create depth?" Sometimes it's as simple as a blurred plant leaf in the corner or shooting through a window frame.

This technique works especially well for interview setups, where you might be limited to basic backgrounds. Try offsetting your subject slightly and adding a lamp or object in the deep background to create natural depth.

Frame it Better

Key Takeaway: The 3-second rule for evaluating shots in the field.

We've all been there—reviewing footage at home only to discover issues that weren't obvious on set. Here's a simple discipline that has saved me countless reshoots: the 3-second rule.

After capturing what you think is your perfect take, force yourself to spend just 3 additional seconds reviewing specific technical elements:

Check the edges - Scan all four frame boundaries for unintentional elements creeping in (boom mics, light stands, crew reflections).

Assess the movement - Did the camera move as intended? Was focus maintained? Did your subject hit their marks?

Listen critically - Close your eyes briefly and focus only on the audio. Is there background noise you missed while concentrating on visuals?

It's good practice to make this a non-negotiable habit before moving to the next shot. What makes this technique powerful is its specificity—you're not just asking "Does this look good?" but systematically checking the most common failure points.

You'll be amazed how many potential problems you catch when they're still fixable.

Final Frame

Key Takeaway: Why "Cassandra" on Netflix deserves attention for its visuals.

This week I've been watching Netflix's "Cassandra" and I'm genuinely impressed by its cinematography and set design.

The show brilliantly employs classic 70s colors throughout its visual palette. The set design captures this era very well while seamlessly blending modern elements - a challenging balance.

From a cinematography standpoint, it's simply beautiful. Even though the writing occasionally falls short with plot points that don't fully connect, the visual storytelling remains consistently compelling.

Have you watched it yet? I'd love to hear your thoughts on the visual choices they made.

Thank you for reading The Weekly Frame. See you in the next one! Markus Galli

​

​