The anamorphic look is known for its wide aspect ratio, unique oval bokeh, and striking lens flares, which are beloved by filmmakers and audiences alike. However, genuine anamorphic lenses can be prohibitively expensive for indie filmmakers and enthusiasts. But fear not! In this blog post, we'll explore how to fake the anamorphic look without breaking the bank, using post-processing techniques and some affordable accessories.
Creating the Anamorphic Aspect Ratio
One of the most distinctive characteristics of anamorphic footage is the widescreen aspect ratio, typically 2.35:1 or 2.39:1. To achieve this look, you'll need to crop your footage in post-production:
- Shoot in a high-resolution format, preferably 4K, to maintain image quality after cropping.
- In your editing software, adjust the aspect ratio by adding black bars to the top and bottom of your footage or by cropping the top and bottom of the image.
- Alternatively, use a plugin or preset that mimics the anamorphic aspect ratio.
Crafting the Oval Bokeh
Anamorphic lenses produce a unique oval bokeh due to their optical design. To recreate this effect without an anamorphic lens, you can use a DIY solution or invest in a specialized filter:
- DIY method: Create an oval-shaped cutout from a black piece of paper or cardstock, and tape it to the front of your lens. This will mimic the out-of-focus characteristics of an anamorphic lens. Make sure to test different sizes and orientations for the best results.
- Specialized filter: Companies like Tiffen and Moment offer filters that create an anamorphic-like bokeh. These filters can be mounted on your existing lenses, and while they won't perfectly replicate the anamorphic look, they'll provide a close approximation.
- Do it in Post - There are plugins and effects you can add to give the oval bokeh effect, but we don't like them at all. We just mentioned it here to let you know not to choose that option.
Emulating Anamorphic Lens Flares
Horizontal lens flares are another iconic aspect of anamorphic lenses. To recreate these flares, try the following techniques:
- Shoot with practical lights: Position practical lights, such as lamps or LED strips, within your frame or just outside of it to create organic lens flares. Experiment with different angles and light sources to achieve the desired effect.
- Use a fishing line: A popular DIY trick is to stretch a piece of clear fishing line across the front of your lens. The fishing line will catch light and create horizontal lens flares. Adjust the line's position and tension to achieve the best results.
- Add flares in post-production: If you're unable to capture lens flares in-camera, you can use editing software or plugins like Red Giant's Knoll Light Factory or Video Copilot's Optical Flares to add convincing anamorphic flares in post-production.
Color Grading for a Cinematic Look
Color grading plays a crucial role in achieving a cinematic look. It is not so much requirement for the anamorphic look, it is more the fact that the only productions or footage you see with anamorphic is cinema based. So if you are going to lean all the way in to faking the look, you might as well add the grade.
- Apply a film emulation LUT: Many color grading software and plugins offer film emulation LUTs that mimic the look of popular film stocks. Apply a LUT that matches the cinematic look you're after.
- Enhance blues and oranges: Anamorphic lenses often produce blue-tinted flares and slightly warmer skin tones. Adjust your color balance to emphasize these tones and create a more anamorphic-like color palette.
- Experiment with contrast and saturation: Play with the contrast and saturation levels to achieve a more filmic and stylized look.
While there's no perfect substitute for an actual anamorphic lens, these tips and techniques can help you achieve a convincing anamorphic look on a budget. The key is to combine these techniques to create a cohesive aesthetic that mimics the unique characteristics of anamorphic lenses.
Composition and Camera Movement
Anamorphic lenses often produce a sense of depth and dimensionality that can be challenging to replicate. However, by paying close attention to your composition and camera movement, you can create a more anamorphic feel in your footage:
- Use foreground and background elements: Including objects in the foreground and background of your shots can add depth and make your scenes more visually interesting.
- Experiment with camera movement: Smooth, cinematic camera movements can help to sell the anamorphic look. Use a gimbal, slider, or even handheld techniques to create dynamic and engaging shots.
- Frame your subjects strategically: Anamorphic lenses tend to create a more immersive and intimate feel. Frame your subjects with this in mind, placing them within their environment to tell a compelling visual story.
Consider Aspect Ratio When Framing Shots
When shooting with a faux anamorphic look in mind, it's essential to consider the final aspect ratio when framing your shots. Since you'll be cropping the top and bottom of your image in post-production, make sure to leave enough room for your subjects and key elements:
- Use custom crop marks: Many cameras allow you to add custom crop marks to your viewfinder or display, which will help you frame your shots accurately for the desired aspect ratio.
- Keep important action within the frame: Be mindful of the wider aspect ratio when framing your shots, ensuring that your subjects and critical visual elements are captured effectively.
Achieving a faux anamorphic look on a budget is entirely possible with some creativity, attention to detail, and a bit of post-production magic. By focusing on aspect ratio, bokeh, lens flares, color grading, composition, and camera movement, you can create a visually compelling and cinematic aesthetic that closely emulates the anamorphic look. While it may not be a perfect match for a genuine anamorphic lens, these techniques will undoubtedly elevate your filmmaking and help you create stunning visuals without breaking the bank. Happy shooting!