What is the primary function of cinematography in film production?

The primary function of cinematography in film production is to create visual storytelling through shot composition and lighting. Cinematography involves the art and technique of capturing moving images on camera, which includes decisions about camera angles, framing, movement, lighting, and color. These elements work together to visually convey the mood, themes, and emotions of the narrative.

Effective cinematography enhances the storytelling by ensuring that each shot contributes to the overall narrative and experience of the film. For instance, the choice of lighting can evoke different emotions, while shot composition can guide the audience’s focus and understanding of the characters and their relationships. This visual aspect serves to immerse the viewer and deepen their connection to the story being told.

The other options relate to different aspects of film production; enhancing the script's narrative involves interpretation and adaptation, sound design and effects focus on the auditory elements of film, and selecting the cast and crew addresses the human resources needed for production. While these elements are crucial to the filmmaking process, they do not define the core function of cinematography, which is fundamentally about visual expression and storytelling.