Did you always want to be a DP when you started out in filmmaking?
In my early days as a filmmaker, my emphasis was primarily on editing and motion graphics. I quickly grasped the profound impact that editing holds in effective storytelling, second only to a compelling narrative. By dedicating myself to the craft of editing, I accelerated my understanding of nuanced storytelling. As the years passed and I delved more into shooting, I gained the ability to envision how my shots would contribute to the narrative during the post-production phase while still on set. I approach shooting with an eye on the edit, anticipating how everything will seamlessly come together. Perhaps this perspective is why I was able to make the leap to becoming a DP so early in my career.
What is your approach to lining up a shot or lighting it?
Much of my work relies on instinct and intuition. I can sense when a shot is just right or when it falls short. I find immense joy in experimenting with cinematography, especially in playing with different color temperatures and exploring various contrast ratios. I seldom stick to a repetitive lighting setup; instead, my choices depend on the specific scene and the emotional nuances within the narrative.
What have your learned since becoming a DP?
I attended film school with the goal of becoming a Cinematographer, ultimately earning my bachelor's degree in the field. The professors played a pivotal role in preparing me for success, providing excellent guidance. However, there's a crucial aspect of being a DP that often goes unspoken – management. The saying, "Heavy is the head who wears the boss hat," holds true. As a DP, you assume significant responsibility, overseeing various aspects and numerous individuals. Much like others on set, you act as the quarterback for your domain, requiring adept management skills to handle people, schedules, weather, Murphy's Law, and everything in between. This is not something that can be taught; it's a skill set acquired through experience and learning on the job.
What is you background?
I possess a robust foundation in electronics and mechanics, having served in the USAF as an F-16 Avionics Technician and as a Mechanic at Lockheed Martin on the F-35 program. It was during my aviation tenure that I discovered my passion for filmmaking, becoming captivated the moment I laid hands on my initial camera. This realization steered the course of my career ambitions, prompting me to complete my six-year service in the USAF and enroll in film school at the Art Institute of Seattle. After about a year and a half, I transitioned to Full Sail University, essentially restarting my degree. In 2014, I successfully earned my Bachelor's Degree in Cinematography.
Throughout my film school journey, I was fortunate to engage in various freelancing opportunities. Subsequently, I secured a position at BodyBuilding.com in Idaho, initially as the Creative Video Director and later progressing to the role of DP. After a few years, I felt ready to embark on an independent venture, establishing Sky Tower Film, which has since evolved into Beyond The Sky Films.
I believe my effectiveness as a DP is greatly influenced by my solid background in electronics and mechanics. This foundation enables me to think swiftly on my feet and devise solutions to challenges using the resources at hand. Understanding the intricacies of how things operate empowers me to "MacGyver" my way out of problems or hurdles on set.
What kind of Awards have you won recently?
I've been exceptionally fortunate to receive recognition for my dedicated efforts in both aviation and filmmaking. Throughout my film school journey, I achieved notable accolades such as being on the Presidents List, earning a place on the Deans List three times, making the Honor Roll, receiving the Course Directors Award, and being honored during Full Sail University's 2016 Hall of Fame week in Florida. Beyond my academic pursuits, I've garnered attention for my films, including being featured in two Sony @ction Magazine articles (one even gracing the front cover) and showcased in the new Sony FS7/FS5 Brochure, with the added honor of appearing on the cover. My work has also been highlighted in the esteemed ASC's American Cinematographer, and I proudly emerged as a finalist in the Sun Valley Film Fest and Tree Fort Films Fest. Notably, I was the inaugural professional DP in the U.S. to film with the new Sony FS5 for Sony promotional videos. Among these achievements, my most cherished is winning the 2015 Gordon Willis ASC Heritage Award for my mini-documentary, "Warbird Pilot: Behind The Visor."
Where do you want to go from here?
I aspire to consistently produce outstanding work, continually challenging myself to craft more compelling Documentaries an Commercials. While I yearn to spend each day immersed in on-location filming, the majority of my time is dedicated to meticulous planning. My ultimate ambition is to be recognized as an ASC, with the opportunity to share my acquired knowledge with fellow filmmakers. Teaching holds a special place in my heart, as I've gained insights through trial and error. If I can assist others in sidestepping similar pitfalls, it would bring me great satisfaction.