Visual Intonation

In cinematography, particularly for Black artists, navigating the creative landscape often involves technical prowess and a battle against self-doubt and the pervasive imposter syndrome. Trusting your inner voice as a Black cinematographer becomes a transformative journey, where one must confront the lingering echoes of systemic biases and the weight of societal expectations. This reflective process requires an unwavering belief in one's unique perspective, unearthing a reservoir of creativity that defies conventional norms. Through overcoming imposter syndrome, Black cinematographers can emerge as trailblazers, reshaping the industry's narrative and forging an empowering path that celebrates their vision and undeniable talent. 

In this episode, I am joined by Kevin GK Frederick, a NYC-based Cinematographer and image maker, to talk about the importance of trusting your inner voice in overcoming your imposter syndrome. Kevin shares how he got into photography, how researching your craft can elevate your game as a photographer, and the importance of color in filmmaking. He also talks about ways to overcome the imposter syndrome, how failure can reshape your career, and balancing the technical and creative aspects of being a cinematographer. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics! 

Timestamps 

[00:44] How Kevin got into photography 

[04:57] Kevin’s first gig experience as a photographer 

[06:09] What Kevin learned when he first picked a camera 

[07:33] How researching your craft can elevate you as a photographer 

[09:43] Tips to find jobs as a freelancer 

[14:00] The importance of color in cinematography 

[17:14] How Gordon Parks inspires Kevin’s work today 

[21:09] Kevin’s first day experience on set as a cinematographer 

[25:14] Trusting your inner voice as a Black cinematographer and overcoming the imposter syndrome 

[29:31] Why are our jobs as filmmakers and storytellers important? 

[31:28] How failure has helped Kevin in his career as a cinematographer 

[34:43] Kevin’s working relationship with the camera department 

[39:12] Balancing the technical aspect and the creative aspect of being a cinematographer 

[41:24] Matching your style with that of the director as a cinematographer 

[43:00] How Kevin Managed to overcome the most challenging project he has done on set 

[52:16] Kevin’s favorite piece of equipment to work with on set and why 

Notable quotes: 

“To find freelancing jobs, you have to put yourself out there. You must find your community and do the tough things that resonate with you.” 

“Colors are not just the things that we see. They have energy and can provide feelings.” 

“Everything in life can be exercised. Even the inner voice is something you can zone in, exercise, and continue growing along your journey.” 

“There is always a lesson to be learned in failure. Failure is a stepping stone toward your better self.” 

Connect with Kevin Frederick: 

Website: https://www.kevingkfrederick.com/ 

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

Welcome to the Visual Intonation podcast! I'm Vanté Gregory, with another solo episode, and today we're going on an exciting journey into the world of independent films. But first, I'd like to make a special announcement. It's my birthday today, and what better way to celebrate than to share my passion for filmmaking with all of you?

Now, let's return to our original topic. Independent films have a distinct and vital role in the film industry. They defy conventions, explore new narratives, and provide a stage for emerging talent to shine. In this podcast, we will look at the process of starting an independent film from scratch and provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating the exciting and sometimes daunting world of independent filmmaking.

This episode will concentrate on the pre-production stage. We'll go over the significance of meticulous planning and preparation. From writing a compelling script and creating a detailed storyboard to casting the right actors, scouting locations, and managing your budget, we'll cover everything you need to know to make a successful independent film.

Moving on to the production phase, we'll go over the complexities of making an independent film. We'll talk about how to work collaboratively with actors and crew members, as well as how to overcome challenges that may arise during production. We'll share valuable insights to help you make the most of your limited resources, from capturing breathtaking scenes to harnessing the power of natural lighting.

After you've completed production, the real magic happens in post-production. We'll look at the art of editing and how it affects the narrative and impact of your film. We'll also look at post-production techniques like sound design, color grading, and special effects to see how they can help your independent film reach new heights. And of course, we'll guide you through the intricate process of distributing your finished masterpiece to captivate audiences worldwide.

As we near the end of this podcast series, we'll summarize the key points raised and emphasize the importance of independent films. We'll encourage aspiring filmmakers to pursue their dreams and share our final thoughts on what it takes to launch a successful independent film project.

So, whether you're a budding filmmaker looking to make a name for yourself in the industry or a film buff curious about the behind-the-scenes magic, this podcast is for you. Join me, Vanté Gregory, as we embark on this thrilling journey of filmmaking and learn about the power of independent filmmaking. Let's jump in together and make your vision a reality on the big screen.

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

A strong and harmonious collaboration between a cinematographer and a director is essential in creating visually compelling and cohesive storytelling on set. The ability to stylistically align with the director's vision is critical for achieving a unified visual language as a cinematographer. Effective communication, active listening, and a thorough understanding of the director's creative intentions are required, allowing the cinematographer to translate those ideas into compelling visual compositions, lighting schemes, and camera movements.

Damian Paul Daniel, an experienced and versatile cinematographer, joins me in this episode to discuss how cinematographers can prepare for and fit stylistically with their directors on set. Damian discusses his background before entering the film industry, how he became a cinematographer, and his first on-set experience as a cinematographer. He also discusses the differences between filmmakers who attend film schools and those who do not, as well as tips for preparing as a cinematographer before going on set that will help you fit stylistically with your director. Tune in to find out more about this and other interesting topics!

Timestamps

[04:09] What Damian used to do before getting into film

[08:52] How Damian got into the film industry

[16:45] How Damian got into cinematography

[19:05] The courage that Damian had as a kid that enabled him to travel to other countries and do what he loves

[26:05] Damian’s first experience on set as a cinematographer

[30:23] Are filmmakers who don’t go to film colleges better than those who do?

[34:42] How to stylistically fit with your director on set as a cinematographer

[39:41] The difference between London’s directors and cinematographers and America’s directors and cinematographers

[46:32] How it feels to be an award-winning cinematographer

[54:42] Damian’s experience of being an independent filmmaker with his wife as a director.

Notable quotes:

“Every cinematographer has a different taste that makes their work special and different from the rest.”

“Your past life experiences can be reflected in your style as a cinematographer.”

Connect with Damian Paul Daniel:

Website: https://www.dpdaniel.com/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

Learning Your Camera, Lenses, and Sharpening Your Test as a Cinematographer 

Mastering your camera, lenses, and sharpening techniques as a cinematographer is critical for capturing stunning visuals and effectively communicating your artistic vision. Understanding the complexities of your camera's settings, functionalities, and limitations enables you to fully utilize its capabilities and achieve optimal image quality. Furthermore, learning about different lenses, their characteristics, and how they interact with light allows you to make deliberate choices that improve visual storytelling. Sharpening your technical skills and honing your attention to detail enables you to navigate the complexities of focus, depth of field, and image sharpness, allowing you to create visually captivating and compelling cinematic experiences.

In this episode, I'm joined by Olan Collardy, a cinematographer whose work reflects his love of art, culture, and style. Olan discusses the importance of spending time behind the lens to sharpen your skills as a cinematographer. He discusses his path to becoming a cinematographer and what gave him the motivation and accountability to continue working in the film industry. Olan also discusses the key factors he considers when lighting a scene and the role music plays in filmmaking. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!

Timestamps

[02:27] The genesis of Olan’s filmmaking journey

[05:11] What gave Olan the encouragement and accountability to keep going in the film industry

[08:40] Olan’s journey to becoming a cinematographer

[16:01] Tips to learn your camera and lenses and sharpen your test

[22:52] The right mindset of being both a director and a cinematographer

[28:05] How Olan approaches lighting a scene

[36:00] How to light dark skin

[41:29] Approaching a specific story from a director stylistically as a cinematographer

[48:00] How Olan tackles miscommunication with the director

[56:11] The role that music has played in filmmaking

Notable quotes:

“It is not about the technology or the tools, it is about the mind and how you can create the world. The camera is just there to show you what is in front.”

“One thing that is not going to change in the film industry is you and how you can influence your mind and improve your test.”

“It’s super important to sharpen your test and your visual vocabulary and work on what is in front of your lens, and everything else will fall into place.”

Connect with Olan Collardy:

Website: https://www.olancollardy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olancollardy/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

A cinematographer's role shines brightly in the realm of filmmaking, where visuals can transport audiences to mesmerizing worlds. Among the many tools at their disposal, intentional lighting has the most captivating power. The cinematographer creates a dance of shadows and highlights, breathing life into each frame like a maestro wielding a symphony of illumination. They paint emotions, shape narratives, and ignite the imagination with each carefully placed beam. The right lighting transforms ordinary scenes into unforgettable moments, leaving an indelible mark on the audience's psyche, from the soft caress of a warm glow to the stark contrast of deep shadows.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dwayne Young, a cinematographer, director and producer based in Atlanta, Georgia, who has over 10 plus years of experience working on a variety of projects including music videos, commercials, short films, pilots, and features, to discuss the power of intentional lighting in cinematography. Dwayne talks about how he got started in cinematography, the experiences that shaped him into a strong creator, and how to become a great cinematographer. He also discusses how to light Black people in films. Tune in to find out more about this and other interesting topics!

Timestamps

[01:20] How the year has started for Dwayne Young

[02:44] The beginning of Dwayne’s journey in cinematography

[06:12] The first camera that Dwayne used

[12:16] Dwayne’s experience on his first gig on a union show

[16:59] The experience that shaped Dwayne to be a strong creator today

[19:00] What makes a great crew?

[19:46] What people struggle with nowadays when it comes to big sets

[21:12] The interview with Danny, the martial artist of IP Man

[28:51] Tips to becoming a great cinematographer

[29:27] How Dwayne learned his style and voice as a cinematographer

[35:08] Lighting Black people in films

[45:41] The cinematographers that Dwayne admires the most

[47:45] What makes a great film?

[56:04] Dwayne Young’s upcoming projects

[01:01:49] Focusing on changing the narrative of how Black men are seen in the world

Notable quotes:

“A great crew is one that knows how to effectively communicate what they need because communication is the number one tool for success.”

“Be intentional with your lighting. Understand what you are shooting, know who it's for, and know who your audience is.”

“Your true colors as a DP come when you are shooting a lot of dark work, and you are focusing on capturing the emotions and feelings of the person right then and there.”

Connect with Dwayne Young:

Website: https://www.dwayneyoung.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dweezy15/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

The art and skill of recording moving images on film or digital media is known as cinematography. It refers to the artistic decisions and technical abilities used by a cinematographer or director of photography (DP) to visually improve the storyline in a film or video production. Framing, composition, lighting, camera movement, lens selection, and color grading are all aspects of cinematography. It is a multifaceted skill that combines artistic vision, technical expertise, and knowledge of visual storytelling principles. The goal of cinematography is to produce visually captivating and immersive experiences for the audience, generating emotions, setting moods, and improving the story.

Olamide Shoyinka, a freelance cinematographer whose work focuses on humanity, joins me in this episode. He believes in generating pictures that may elicit empathy and compassion from the audience, regardless of race, culture, or beliefs. Join us as we uncover Olamide's fascinating journey and learn how he experienced living in Ireland, how kickboxing shaped his fluidity in filmmaking, how he balances the technical aspects of filmmaking and cinematography, the roles that personal experiences play in cinematography, and how he overcomes cinematography challenges. Olamide also discusses the most important thing to remember on set while filming, his flow state of creation as an artist, appreciating the entire film in general, getting everyone on board with a common goal, and advice to young cinematographers. Tune in to find out more about this and other interesting topics!

Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!


Timestamps

[01:50] Olamide’s experience of living in Ireland

[03:49] How kickboxing shaped Olamide’s fluidity in filmmaking

[04:52] How Olamide balances the technical aspect of filmmaking and cinematography

[07:08] Roles that personal experiences play in cinematography

[08:09] How Olamide overcomes the challenges of cinematography

[11:47] The most important thing on set during filmmaking

[13:43] How Olamide deals with other crews as a head of a department

[15:46] How Olamide gets inspired to bring new ideas

[20:36] Olamide’s flow state of creation as an artist

[23:26] Appreciating the whole film in general

[25:55] Getting everyone on board with a common goal

[29:43] Advice to young cinematographers

Notable Quotes:

“Prepare as much as you can and then when the shoot happens let the creativity take over.”

“Cinematography is not like working in an office, it’s who you are and the work you do.”

“Being nice, kind and understanding has nothing to do with your skill as a cinematographer, but it’s going to be the one thing that advances your career more than any image that you can chew.”

“Don’t strive to be perfect, you should strive to be right.”

“Always remember where you were and see how far you’ve come.”

Connect with Olamide Shoyinka:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/olamide-shoyinka-728875119

Website: https://www.olamideshoyinka.com/

Instagram: https://www.instag

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

In the enchanting world of cinematography, where stories come to life through the lens, the power of genuine and detailed feedback holds the key to unlocking mesmerizing masterpieces. Like a well-choreographed dance between the artist and the audience, this invaluable tool fuels creativity, shapes vision, and elevates the craft to new heights. From the subtlest nuances of lighting to the meticulously framed shots, the art of providing thoughtful feedback breathes life into the celluloid canvas, empowering filmmakers to refine their artistry and captivate hearts and minds with their visual symphonies.

In this episode, I am joined by Matt Allan Smith, a cinematographer based in LA, who enjoys exploring the gap between reality and fantasy. Matt talks about the benefits of genuine and detailed feedback in cinematography and how Black cinematographers can step up and rule the industry. He also explains the political differences between working as an AC and a cinematographer, the criticism of Black films, and the Black mediocrity in the film industry. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!

Timestamps

[05:13] Matt Allan Smith’s childhood experience in Maryland

[12:38] Matt’s first big piece of tech in the 90s

[14:05] The age that Matt first picked up a camera[20:00] How Matt got into cinematography

[34:34] The political differences between working as an AC and a cinematographer

[39:26] The importance of genuine and detailed feedback in cinematography

[42:09] The criticism of Black films

[43:43] The experience of being a Black filmmaker in Atlanta

[51:37] Black mediocrity in the film industry

[01:01:58] Steven Spielberg & John Singleton

[01:03:53] The younger DPs that Matt really admires

[01:10:15] Past cinematographers that Matt really admires

Notable quotes:

“There is a level of Black artistry that can reach a potential level, but we have to be sincere with one another.”

“We know that great filmmakers are out there. We are going to find them and recognize them.”

Connect with Matt Allan Smith:

Website: https://www.mattsmithdp.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wrongmattsmith/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

Cinematography is a crucial element in filmmaking that has a profound impact on the way the audience perceives and connects with the subject matter. The cinematographer's lens serves as a conduit for the director's vision, providing a visual language that captures the essence of the story being told. However, it is the intimacy that the cinematographer brings to their work that elevates their craft to an art form. By immersing themselves in the subject matter, cinematographers can capture the subtle nuances of emotion and expression that bring depth and authenticity to the screen.

In this episode, I am joined by cinematographer LaDawn Manuel to share the importance of intimacy with the subject in cinematography and tips to become a great cinematographer. LaDawn talks about how her childhood experience has influenced her art career, her approach to lighting a scene, and the importance of intimacy with the object in cinematography. She also discusses the importance of pre-production in the film industry and how we can keep up with the new technology as cinematographers. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!

Timestamps

[02:22] LaDawn Manuel’s childhood experience

[03:49] How LaDawn’s childhood experience has influenced her art career

[10:00] LaDawn’s experience in Ohio

[15:16] The importance of the intimacy that the cinematographer has with the subject through the lens

[21:00] LaDawn’s approach to lighting a scene

[29:22] The most challenging project that LaDawn has worked on

[34:39] The importance of pre-production in the film industry

[38:00] How to keep up with new technology as a cinematographer

[48:40] Tips to Become a great cinematographer

[49:43] How doing yoga has changed LaDawn’s life

Notable quotes:

 “We, as filmmakers, are the eyes of our work. We have to tell stories and put them out there for the world to see and relate to.”

 “If you wait for people, you are going to wait forever.”

Connect with LaDawn Manuel:

Website: https://ladawnmanuel.net/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

 Directing and cinematography are two essential components of filmmaking that play a crucial role in bringing a story to life on the big screen. The art of mastering directing and cinematography involves a deep understanding of storytelling, visual language, and technical expertise. This requires not only artistic creativity but also a strong ability to collaborate with others and manage the many moving parts of film production. 

In this episode, I am joined by Charles Kennedy Jr., director and cinematographer, to talk about mastering directing and cinematography. Charles shares the experience of growing up in Livonia, the experience of working as an audio editor at a church, and how he got into the film industry. 

Charles discovered his photographic talent during his sophomore year at Lawrence Technological University, where he studied Media Communication. He began his undergraduate career with an emphasis on audio engineering, but gradually changed to film production and photography. ​

He also talks about how to capture dark skin as a cinematographer, being great at both directing and cinematography, and the difference between the narrative brain and the cinematographer's brain in commercial work. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics! 

Timestamps 

[01:48] The experience of growing up in Livonia, Michigan 

[02:49] Charles’s Jamaican upbringing 

[06:09] The experience of being an audio editor for a church 

[09:32] How Charles got into the film industry 

[12:36] Charles’s first time on set as a director 

[20:13] How to capture dark skin as a cinematographer 

[28:48] Being at war with an art form that you love but don’t like it 

[31:12] Charles’s work relationship with Zach 

[35:52] The difference between the narrative brain and the cinematographer's brain in commercial work 

[39:40] About the series that Charles worked on 

[48:47] The piece of advice that Professor Beth has shared with Charles that he carries till today 

Notable quotes: 

“It’s good that you know what you want to do, but learn how to do all of it because you will make yourself more marketable.” 

“With every movie you make or capture, be intentional about what it is that you are doing.” 

Connect with Charles Kennedy: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-kennedy-5b7a3035/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckennedyjr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ckennedyjr

Website: https://www.charleskennedyjr.com/

Website: https://www.mis-fitted.com/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

The film industry is a highly competitive and challenging field to break into, especially in the United States. Real filmmakers who are successful in this industry possess a combination of skills, talent, and perseverance. They understand that it takes more than just creative vision and technical ability to make a successful film. In this episode, I am joined by Elisee Junior St Preux, a Haitian storyteller born and raised in North Miami Beach, FL, who exploits his art through directing, writing, and acting, to explore some of the key characteristics and strategies that real filmmakers utilize to succeed in the US film industry.

Elisee researched assiduously from numerous materials available to him as a self-taught filmmaker, such as books, blogs, podcasts, newspapers, digital articles, and documentaries. Soon after, he founded the film blog "The Movie Butter Playbook," as well as the screenplay label "La MODE Films," for Black writers. Today, his work has premiered at Tribeca, he is a recipient of Indeed's Rising Voices in collaboration with Hillman Grad Productions, a nominee for the 53rd NAACP Image Awards, an HBO Short Film Award Finalist at the American Black Film Festival, and a Netflix Created By Fellow.

Elisee shares his experience of being raised in South Florida, the secrets to being successful in Florida, and how he has been so successful in his projects. He also talks about the first thing that he thinks about when working on a film, how to stay in the present as an artist, and what the real black filmmakers in the diaspora are missing. He discusses some of the things that real filmmakers do to be successful. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!


Timestamps

[06:11] The experience of being raised in South Florida

[11:11] The bullying of dark skin in colleges back in the days

[13:43] The secrets to being successful in Florida

[16:20] How Elisee has been successful in his projects

[18:54] The first thing that Elisee thinks about when working on a film

[21:55] How to stay in the present as an artist

[27:22] What the real black filmmakers in the diaspora are missing

[34:01] What the real filmmakers do

[39:00] Understanding completion bonds as a director

[45:00] The competition in the film industry

[52:10] Advice for young filmmakers in Florida

Notable quotes:

 “If you live in an unpredictable world, you must be prepared everywhere you go.”

 “The real filmmakers go out and make their movie and be unapologetic about it, and they are going to do it with all the skill sets they have and face all the trials and tribulations they will get. In the end, they are going to be proud and learn from it.”

 “A lot of directors don’t understand anything about a completion bond. If your film doesn’t make a certain percentage, you will have a hard time getting money for your next feature.”

Connect with Elisee Junior St Preux:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliseestpreux/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eliseethecinephile/

Support the show

Visual Intonation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualintonation/

Vante Gregory's Website: vantegregory.com
Vante Gregory's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantegregory/

To support me on Patreon (thank you): patreon.com/visualintonations

Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation