Episode 28: Intimacy in the Lens with LaDawn Manuel
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 luck. 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/