Dune Part One : The Photography by Chiabella James

Experience the breathtaking world of Denis Villeneuve’s critically acclaimed sci-fi masterpiece, Dune, like never before with Dune Part One: The Photography. This extraordinary book takes you behind the scenes, offering a captivating journey through the visual landscapes captured by the talented unit photographer, Chiabella James.

From the awe-inspiring cliffs of Norway to the hauntingly beautiful deserts of Jordan, this deluxe volume transports you to the iconic locations that served as the backdrop for this epic cinematic experience. Through vivid stills, you will witness the magic and immense scale of the production, capturing the unique spirit that Villeneuve and his cast created.

Delve into the pages and behold breathtaking vistas that will transport you to worlds beyond imagination. But it doesn’t stop there. Dune Part One: The Photography also grants you access to intimate and candid moments shared between Villeneuve and the exceptional cast. These never-before-seen photos give you an insider’s glimpse into the creative process that brought this monumental story to life.

With a foreword by executive producer Tanya Lapointe, a preface by the incomparable Rebecca Ferguson, and an afterword by Brian Herbert, this collector’s edition is an absolute must-have for any devoted fan or film enthusiast. It seamlessly combines stunning visuals with insightful commentary, offering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the extraordinary world Villeneuve has crafted.

Complete your Dune film collection with this visually arresting masterpiece. Let the pages of Dune Part One: The Photography transport you to a mesmerizing universe, where the power of imagination fuses seamlessly with cinematic artistry. Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and transported to the heart of the epic saga that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Still Photography on Film Sets: Capturing the Moments

Well hello everyone, welcome to Depth of Field! Today we have an incredible photographer with us, Chia Bella James Giovelle. Chia Bella is a London and New York City based photographer who specializes in feature film still cinematography. She has worked on projects such as Dune and Mission Impossible. In this article, we will explore Chia Bella’s journey into the film industry, her unique perspective as a still photographer, and her advice for aspiring photographers looking to break into the industry.

The Beginnings of a Passion

Chia Bella’s journey into the film industry began at a young age. Her father was a successful unit still photographer, so she grew up surrounded by the world of film. She learned from him and developed her own unique vision. She even had her own camera, a basic Canon DSLR, and would follow her father around on set to capture her own perspective. Chia Bella’s upbringing on film sets gave her a firsthand view of the industry and sparked her passion for photography.

The Challenges and Joys of the Job

Being a unit still photographer comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Chia Bella described her work as a constant learning process. She emphasized the importance of capturing the right moments at the right time, especially in high-action scenes. Her background in photographing dance performances gave her the skills needed to capture those fleeting moments that make a great photograph.

Chia Bella’s work takes her to various locations, often traveling for film shoots. While it may seem glamorous, she acknowledges that it comes with its own set of challenges. She recalled spending summers on remote film sets instead of attending regular summer camps, which made her childhood a bit different from her peers. However, she also recognizes the unique experiences and opportunities that came with this upbringing.

The Role of a Unit Still Photographer

As a unit still photographer, Chia Bella’s main role is to sell the movie. Her job is to capture images that showcase the film’s story, tease the audience, and pique their interest without revealing any plot spoilers. She works closely with the marketing and advertising teams to create visuals that promote the film. Additionally, she has to communicate with the filmmakers, cast, and crew to ensure that her images capture the essence of the film. It’s a delicate balance between being an observer and finding those special moments that bring a film to life.

Advice for Aspiring Photographers

Chia Bella shared valuable advice for photographers looking to enter the film industry. She emphasized the importance of networking and building connections. Sending out emails and reaching out to photographers whose work you admire can lead to valuable opportunities and mentorships. It’s also essential to build a diverse portfolio by photographing music videos, independent films, and even working with film school students. This allows aspiring photographers to showcase their skills and prove their ability to capture moments on a film set.

Chia Bella also recommended considering other roles on a film set, such as working as a runner. This provides a valuable opportunity to learn about different departments and gain a thorough understanding of the film production process.

Chia Bella’s Personal Work

In addition to her film industry work, Chia Bella has embarked on a personal project during the COVID-19 pandemic. Titled “Masquerade,” this portrait series explores the concept of identity and the metaphorical masks we wear. By photographing individuals wearing masks that distort their faces, Chia Bella aims to highlight the commonalities between people and raise awareness about mental health. The series will be compiled into a book, with the proceeds going to support a mental health organization in the UK.

Chia Bella James Giovelle’s journey from running around film sets as a child to becoming an accomplished unit still photographer is a testament to her talent and dedication. Her unique perspective and ability to capture moments that sell a film have made her an invaluable asset to the industry. If you aspire to follow in her footsteps, remember to network, build a diverse portfolio, and never give up on your passion. And don’t forget to check out her personal project, “Masquerade,” to support a great cause.