In addition to his career as cinematographer, Gunnar Fischer directed short films, wrote screenplays (1933–41) and published books for children.

The International Dictionary of Films and Filmmakers describes Fischer's style as "in the mainstream of the Scandinavian tradition," and celebrates the close and "intensely psychological close-ups and two-shots.

"[8] Widely recognized for his striking imagery and cold lighting, Fischer was the "first cinematographer to capture with unparalleled beauty the cruelty, sensuality and selfishness that often collided in the same scene among Bergman's anguished characters.

"[9] Almost as striking was the camerawork for Bergman’s historical feature The Seventh Seal,[10] which depicted a medieval encounter between a knight back from the Crusades and the figure of Death.

Told in stark black and white, its most famous scene featured them playing chess together on a bleak Nordic beach.