Visual Intonation

The Journey To Becoming a Great Cinematographer with Bradley Credit

 
Becoming a great cinematographer requires dedication, skill, and creativity. It is a journey that involves a deep understanding of visual storytelling, technical expertise, and the ability to collaborate effectively with directors, producers, and other crew members. In this episode, I am joined by Bradley Credit, a New York City-based cinematographer. Originally from Washington, D.C., Bradley is inspired by personal and impactful stories where he can lend his eye and sensibilities to enhance them visually.


Bradley shares his personal cinematography journey from growing up in DC to working with United Talent Agency. He talks about what makes cinematography in Washington D.C. different from other places in the US, the amazing film that motivated him to become a cinematographer, and the difference in his commercial work and narrative work. He also discusses the top qualities that he looks for in a crew and a director that he wants to be part of and his relationship with colors that makes his projects great! Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!
 

Timestamps

[02:59] How it feels to be brought up in Washington, D.C.

[04:53] What makes cinematography in Washington DC different from other places in the US

[07:32] Bradley’s experience in sports when growing up

[10:59] The amazing film that motivated Bradley to become a cinematographer

[13:00] The first camera that Bradley brought

[16:26] The difference between the commercial work that Bradley does and the narrative work

[22:00] Does Bradley share the ideas for the sports with the director?

[23:06] How Bradley skill stack as a cinematographer to elevate his career

[27:46] The top qualities that Bradley looks for in a crew and a director that he wants to be a part of

[30:04] Bradley’s relationship with colors that makes his projects great

[42:35] How Bradley felt after receiving the email from UTA about signing him

[45:56] Bradley’s Top 5 films

Connect with Bradley Credit:

Website: https://bradleycredit.com/

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

Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/bradleycredit
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-credit/


 

Support the show

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

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

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Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@visualintonation

 Zachary Cunningham is a gifted artist with many talents. He is a poet, writer, and award-winning director. His love of poetry and jazz had an impact on his short films and feature-length narrative work. Zachary believes that if he hadn't had a rap-loving brother, he would never have become a poet. He wrote poetry using his brother's rap books. 
 
Zachary grew up on Detroit's east side. Growing up with his pastor father taught him about spirituality in his work, which he later applied to his filmmaking. To Zachary, poetry is his foundation, and removing it will transform him into a completely different filmmaker. He talks about his first short film, Little Church, and his upcoming film, which will be released later this year. 

In this episode, Zachary shares his journey to becoming who he is today. He takes us through his childhood experience, how he discovered his passion for poetry and Jazz, his journey in the film industry and how he achieves work-life balance. 

Listen in to learn more. 

Key Talking Points of the Episode: 

[03:15] Zachary’s childhood in Detroit 

[05:51] How Zachary got into poetry and how it impacted his life 

[10:32] Zachary’s first short film; Little Church 

[14:20] How Zachary’s family and community in Detroit affect his work 

[28:17] Zachary’s process of putting together stories 

[32:19] Zachary’s transition from shorts to films 

[37:48] Decolonizing the image of black men 

[45:52] Zachary’s experience working with Charles Kennedy Jr 

[48:50] How does Zachary separate the director’s brand from narrative filmmaker and commercial director? 

[53:27] Finding work-life balance 

[01:02:10] Zachary’s next film; Little Feet Take Giant Steps 

[01:04:52] Zachary’s favorite Jazz musicians 

Magical Quotes from the Episode: 

“Nobody’s above critique when it comes to black film specifically.” 

“All we really need from each other is some love.” 

“Most people have good intentions. I just want to show that.” 

“The real process of trying to heal and being empathetic towards yourself takes a lot of work.” 

“When you work in a commercial space there is no black line.” 

Connect with Zachary Cunningham: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/z.c.cunningham/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misfitted_work 

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

Marlon Riggs was a groundbreaking filmmaker and activist who was born on February 3, 1957, in Fort Worth, Texas. As the child of civilian military employees, Riggs spent much of his childhood moving between Texas, Georgia, and West Germany. His experience of ostracism and name-calling as a biracial student at Hephzibah Junior High School in Georgia would have a profound impact on his life and work.

Despite these challenges, Riggs excelled academically and athletically, becoming student body president at Ansbach American High School in Germany and graduating with honors in history from Harvard University in 1978. While at Harvard, Riggs realized that he was gay and sought to study the history and representation of homosexuality in American culture, petitioning the History Department for an independent study on the subject.

Riggs began his career in film by working for a local television station in Texas before moving to Oakland, California, where he lived with his partner, Jack Vincent, for 15 years. It was in Oakland that Riggs developed his unique voice as a filmmaker, exploring issues of race, sexuality, and identity in groundbreaking documentaries such as "Ethnic Notions" (1986), "Tongues Untied" (1989), and "Black Is...Black Ain't" (1995).

Riggs's work challenged traditional notions of documentary filmmaking, blending elements of poetry, music, and performance to create a powerful and emotionally resonant style. He was a vocal advocate for the representation and empowerment of marginalized communities, particularly Black gay men, and his films were instrumental in sparking conversations about race, sexuality, and representation in American culture.

Tragically, Riggs died in 1994 at the age of 37 due to complications from AIDS. However, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and activists, and his work remains a vital part of the ongoing struggle for social justice and equality in the United States.

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

 What are your thoughts on cinematography? 

A good number of people are still skeptical when it comes to filmmaking as a career. Because you wonder if it is a promising career, can it put food on your table? Can it give you the life you desire? 

The good news is that our world today has many opportunities, especially in the creative world. Samson Binutu is living proof. Samson dates his journey as a photographer way back to 2010 when he was dating a girl taking a photography class, and when hanging out, she would show up with a camera. 


Samson Binutu is a Maryland-based Nigerian-American cinematographer. He disrupts visual norms by making pieces that make you...well, think. He is known for his dreamy aesthetic and love of abstraction. His studies in photography and music inspired his approach to detail and storytelling even more. His work extends from commercials/music videos to independent projects such as short films. He has worked as a DP and Director for companies such as Netflix, Smithsonian, HOKA, Big Think, Vice, Capital One, Under Armour, and many more.

Since then, Samson has nurtured his passion for photography and recently worked on a project with Ja-Mar Jones as a cinematographer. In this episode, Samson Binutu joins me on the show to share his journey as a photographer and how he transitioned into a cinematographer. 

Listen to the episode and learn. 

Key Talking Points of the Episode: 

[3:43] How did Samson start as a photographer? 

[15:15] Samson’s desire to be NBA 

[19:17] Significance of not having a chip on your shoulder 

[21:54] Challenges of photographers who are not American 

[26:07] Film industry 

[33:57] Dealing with time and prioritization 

[38:03] The difference between a cinematographer and a director 

[41:41] How to choose the right camera lens 

Magical Quotes from the Episode: 

“Consistency is the key.” 

“It is all about mindset.” 

“With Passion you can become the person you want to be in the future.” 

“When you’re consistent in something, and you’re passionate about it, and you can create a community around it, like it’s bound to be something that thrives.” 

“Create something that inspires people.” 

Resources Mentioned in the Episode: 

Book-Atomic Habits 

Connect with Samson Binutu 

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

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

Website: https://cruefilms.co/

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 this podcast episode, we explore the life and legacy of Cicely Tyson, from her humble beginnings to becoming a global star in television, film, and theater. Born in 1924 to West Indian immigrants, Tyson faced many challenges growing up as a Black woman in the 1930s America. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, but her dreams of becoming a fashion designer were put on hold when she was discovered by a photographer and began modeling for Ebony magazine. Tyson's modeling career led to her first acting role in the 1951 film "Carib Gold." 

Despite a lack of parental support and limited roles for Black actors, Tyson refused to play roles that perpetuated negative stereotypes. Her breakthrough role was in the 1972 film "Sounder," where she played the role of Rebecca, a Black mother who sacrifices everything for her family. Tyson's nuanced portrayal challenged negative stereotypes of Black women and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Her role in the 1974 television miniseries "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman" further challenged the prevailing narrative of American history and earned her two Emmy Awards. Tyson's legacy extends beyond her acting performance, as she also used her platform to advocate for civil rights and promote a positive representation of Black women in film and television. 

In the later years of her career, Tyson continued to take on challenging roles that showcased her range as an actress. She appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including "The Help," "How to Get Away with Murder," and "House of Cards." In 2013, Tyson won a Tony Award for her role in the Broadway play "The Trip to Bountiful."

Despite her success, Tyson never forgot the struggles she faced as a Black woman in Hollywood. She used her platform to advocate for better representation of Black actors and actresses on screen, and she was a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Tyson also dedicated much of her time to philanthropic work. She was a strong supporter of education and served as a member of the board of directors for the Dance Theatre of Harlem, a nonprofit organization that provides dance education to young people in Harlem.

Throughout her long and illustrious career, Cicely Tyson remained a trailblazer, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of Black actresses. Her commitment to social justice, her dedication to her craft, and her unwavering spirit inspired countless people around the world, and her legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.

In this podcast, we will explore the life and career of Cicely Tyson, from her humble beginnings in East Harlem to her rise to international stardom. We will delve into the challenges she faced as a Black woman in Hollywood and her tireless efforts to promote social justice and equality. Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of one of the most iconic actresses of our time.

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 this episode, we investigate the exceptional existence of Ruby Dee, a lady of numerous gifts, from verse to theater, activism to playwriting. We dig into her initial life, experiencing childhood in Harlem, and her affection for narrating, which drove her to performing expressions. We examine her noteworthy accomplishments in theater, remembering her job for "A Raisin in the Sun," the main play composed by a person of color to be delivered on Broadway. Not only that, but we discuss her activism and her cozy associations with Social equality pioneers Malcolm X and Martin Luther Ruler, Jr. Ultimately, we investigate her change to television acting and her wonderful heritage in media outlets. All through her profession, Dee separated obstructions and made critical commitments to both artistic expression and the Social equality development.

Ruby Dee was a remarkable woman who made an indelible impact on American culture and society. Born in 1922, she grew up in Harlem, New York, at a time when America was still segregated. Despite the challenges she faced, Dee was determined to pursue her passion for the performing arts, and she became an accomplished actor, poet, playwright, and activist.

Dee's love of storytelling began at a young age, and she earned a degree in Romance languages to hone her skills. However, it was her apprenticeship at the American Negro Theatre that solidified her love of the performing arts. During her time there, she met and formed connections with other up-and-coming actors, including Hilda Simms and Sidney Poitier.

Dee's first big break came in 1946, when she landed a role in the all-black Broadway production of "Anna Lucasta." The play was a major success, running for almost 1000 performances, and it helped to launch Dee's career as an actor. She went on to appear in several other plays, including the groundbreaking "A Raisin in the Sun," which was the first Broadway play written by a black woman.

Dee's success on stage led to opportunities in Hollywood, and she became known for her roles in films such as "The Jackie Robinson Story" and "Buck and the Preacher." However, Dee never forgot her roots in the theater, and she continued to perform on stage throughout her career. In fact, she made history as the first black actress to play a lead role in the American Shakespeare Festival.

Dee's activism was an integral part of her life, and she used her platform as a performer to advocate for Civil Rights. Along with her husband, the actor and activist Ossie Davis, she was a close friend and ally of leaders such as Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. Dee and Davis were arrested for protesting the shooting of Amadou Diallo in 1999 and signed the 2003 proclamation "Not in Our Name" in opposition to the U.S. invasion of Iraq.

Throughout her life, Dee remained committed to using her talents and her voice to effect change in the world. She was a true pioneer for black women in the arts, and her legacy continues to inspire and empower people today.

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 this podcast episode, we delve into the story of Euzhan Palcy, a filmmaker who had a significant impact on Hollywood by using her platform to bring about positive change. Born in Martinique in 1958, Palcy fell in love with film as a child and was determined to make a difference in an industry that often portrayed black people in a negative light. She directed her first film, La Messagere, as a teenager and went on to make her first feature film, Sugar Cane Alley, which was a huge success, winning 17 international awards. Palcy later directed A Dry White Season, a film that showcased the Soweto riots and apartheid in South Africa, and became the first black woman to direct a film produced by one of Hollywood's major studios. Through her passion for social justice and activism, Palcy used her platform to create positive change in the film industry, and her story serves as an inspiration to filmmakers and activists alike. 

 Despite facing numerous challenges in Hollywood due to her race and gender, Euzhan Palcy continued to push boundaries and tell stories that were important to her. Her next film, the 1999 movie "Ruby Bridges," was based on the true story of the first black child to attend a white elementary school in New Orleans during the Civil Rights Movement. The film starred actress Chaz Monet in the title role, and was produced by Disney for television. 

In addition to her work as a filmmaker, Palcy has also been an advocate for women and minorities in the film industry. She has served on the board of the Sundance Institute, and has mentored many aspiring filmmakers over the years. In recognition of her contributions to cinema, Palcy was awarded the French Legion of Honor in 2017, the highest civilian award in France. 

Today, Palcy continues to be an inspiration to filmmakers around the world, proving that with determination and talent, anything is possible. Her legacy in the film industry serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to bring about social change and inspire others to follow their dreams. 

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

How much faith do you have in yourself? Meet Michael Augustine, who believes that we should believe in ourselves until it becomes a habit.

Michael Augustine is a writer-director and cinematographer who has worked on films such as She Was Famous (2016) and If I Am to Continue (2021). My Prayers are Precious to God (2022), his directorial feature debut, is currently in post-production. He was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, before moving to Atlanta in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Michael earned degrees in Creative Writing, Film, and Performance from Louisiana State University.

In this episode, Michael discusses his upbringing, how he got into the film industry, the various films he has worked on, and words of wisdom for aspiring filmmakers.

Listen and learn from Michael.

Key Talking Points of the Episode:

[03:39] Michael’s move to Georgia

[07:45] Moving back to Louisiana

[10:55] How Michael got into film

[14:42] How Michael got his first job while in school 

[19:35] How Michael became a writer

[21:33] What did Michael’s script look like?

[24:05] Michael’s experience collaborating with other writers

[28:03] Prayers are precious to God

[30:41] Building a film empire through community

[34:23] The decentralized processes in which filmmakers could be relentless within the filmmaking community

[37:01] Finding your tribe and staying on the truck

[40:01] Michael’s parting words you want to leave in upcoming filmmakers

Magical Quotes from the Episode:

“Champion your vision, and do not allow people to be the gatekeepers for whether you can move to the next step.”

“Believe in yourself so long that you know it to where it’s no longer to believe.”

“There is nobody Hollywood can say like this particular film cannot get made because you just gave and funneled money into a movie called Cocaine Bear.”

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

"Artists are the gate keepers of truth. We are civilization’s radical voice."- Paul Robeson


In this podcast episode, we explore the life and legacy of Paul Robeson, a true trailblazer in American history. Born into a family that valued education and perseverance, Robeson's determination to succeed was evident from an early age. Despite facing discrimination and racism, he excelled academically and athletically, becoming the class Valedictorian at Rutgers University. However, it was his exceptional singing voice and captivating stage presence that propelled him to fame. Robeson used his platform to advocate for civil rights, performing in the language of each country he visited and donating the proceeds of his shows to support causes such as ending racism and promoting world peace. Join us as we delve into the life and times of this remarkable activist and performer, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

One comment that Robeson made during this time period that would come to define him was his statement that “the artist must take sides. He must elect to fight for freedom or slavery. I have made my choice.” Robeson chose to use his immense talent and platform to fight for social justice, and he did so unapologetically.

Robeson was particularly passionate about workers’ rights and spoke out in support of labor unions. He believed that workers should have the right to unionize and collectively bargain for better wages and working conditions. In 1940, he performed at a rally in Madison Square Garden in support of the Trade Union Unity League, which was an organization affiliated with the Communist Party that advocated for workers’ rights. This performance, along with his outspoken support for labor unions, would later lead to his persecution by the US government during the Cold War.

During World War II, Robeson was a staunch supporter of the war effort against fascism. He performed for Allied troops in North Africa and Europe, and his rendition of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” became famous among soldiers. However, after the war ended, Robeson’s outspoken support for the Soviet Union and his criticism of US foreign policy would lead to him being labeled a communist sympathizer and blacklisted by Hollywood.

The blacklist effectively ended Robeson’s film career and limited his ability to perform in the United States. However, he continued to perform abroad, and his concerts in the Soviet Union and other communist countries earned him a reputation as a propagandist for communism. This reputation was not entirely unfounded, as Robeson did believe in the principles of communism and saw it as a way to fight against racism and imperialism.

In the 1950s, Robeson’s passport was revoked by the US government, effectively preventing him from traveling abroad to perform. He was also subjected to intense surveillance and harassment by the FBI, who saw him as a threat to national security. Despite this persecution, Robeson continued to speak out against racism and injustice, and he became a symbol of resistance for many in the civil rights movement.

In the 1960s, Robeson’s health began to decline, and he was largely forgotten by the mainstream media. However, his legacy lived on in the activism of younger generations, who were inspired by his dedication to social justice and h

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 this episode, we discuss the lack of diversity in advertising and media, with a focus on the Super Bowl. The NFL's "We See You" advertisement during the Super Bowl drew criticism due to the advertising industry's lack of diversity. Rodney Lucas, a black director, directed the advertisement, which was the only Super Bowl commercial with a black director in 2023.

The lack of diversity in advertising is not a new problem, nor is it restricted to the Super Bowl. In 2022, only 15% of in-game spots were directed by people of color or female directors, according to the podcast. However, in the 2023 Super Bowl, the statistic improved slightly, rising to 18%.

The lack of diversity in the Superbowl is a reflection of what is going on a smaller scale all across the country. It is an issue that must be addressed.

We discuss the age-old justification for a lack of diversity: the people who make these decisions explain their actions without acknowledging their prejudice or lack of inclusivity. According to the podcast, this excuse perpetuates a self-perpetuating circle of non-diverse directors.

According to Sophie Gold, the founder of the black female-owned production company "Eleanor," working with black talent is riskier because black talent has not been given the same opportunities as white talent. There is a distinction to be made between a lack of talent and a lack of opportunity.

The podcast emphasizes that a lack of diversity in advertising and media is not innocuous. These minor microaggressions and lack of equality reveal larger issues that lurk beneath society's surface, unnoticed. The murder of George Floyd, as well as the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement around the world, put pressure on corporations and individuals to change their ways. It was a catalyst for change that had been postponed and underutilized for decades.

Almost three years after George Floyd's death, the reality is that most promises to hire people from diverse backgrounds and increase inclusivity appear to have been broken. Companies have conducted interviews with a diverse range of candidates for positions that have already been filled, with no intention of hiring the talented individuals in front of them. It's box-checking, putting a check in the "diversity box" to improve their public image and appease employees who advocate for inclusion, but with no intention of following through.

Byron Allen, a black television producer and entertainment company founder, filed a $20 billion lawsuit against the telecommunications conglomerate Comcast Corporation. Allen accused Comcast of racism, claiming that the company refused to include Allen's television channels in its cable bundles because he was black.

We conclude by proposing several potential solutions to these problems, beginning with hiring black directors and crews and collaborating with black-owned agencies and businesses. It emphasizes that inclusivity in advertising must begin with selecting a diverse agency and then cascade down to telling an inclusive story and hiring diverse cast and crew members. Without full commitment, attempts at diversity will fail.

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