Episode 29: The Power of the Genuine Image with Matt Allan Smith
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 Los Angeles 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 admires
[01:10:15] Past cinematographers that Matt 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/