Episode 38: Optics and Nature with Femi Awojide

In the captivating world of filmmaking, a dynamic synergy emerges when technical expertise harmoniously blends with artistic finesse. As a filmmaker, mastering the craft involves a deep understanding of camera techniques, lighting, and editing software and an innate ability to weave storytelling magic through the lens of creativity. In this enthralling pursuit, the seamless integration of technical prowess and artistic vision unlocks boundless possibilities, allowing filmmakers to craft visually stunning and emotionally resonant masterpieces that transcend the boundaries of conventional cinema. Embracing the artistry within technology and the technology within art, filmmakers embark on a journey that celebrates innovation, imagination, and the transformative power of cinematic storytelling. 

In this episode, I am joined by Femi Awojide, a London-based cinematographer whose work is inspired by a harmonious blend of influences from the arts, photography, science, and the serendipitous moments of everyday life. With a degree in physics, Fẹ́mi perceives his craft as a conduit of transferable energy capable of producing real-time effects on the audience. Today, Femi explains how technical skills can merge with art to produce world-class films. He talks about how he realized that his physics background could help in cinematography, how being a Visual Effects Supervisor has blended with cinematography, and how London has influenced his work as a filmmaker. He also shares how filmmakers can thrive, elevate, evolve, and grow in their craft. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!

Timestamps 

[00:29] Fẹ́mi’s first time experience picking a camera 

[03:08] Fẹ́mi’s earliest philosophy as a filmmaker and how it has evolved over the years 

[05:50] How Fẹ́mi came to realize that his physics background could help in cinematography 

[06:55] How being a Visual Effects Supervisor has blended with cinematography 

[08:32] How LLMs and AI is affecting filmmakers 

[11:10] How London has influenced Fẹ́mi’s work as a cinematographer 

[15:12] The memorable experience from the films that Fẹ́mi has done 

[18:54] The science of lighting black skin and tweaking your style to make it unique 

[23:41] The relationship between Fẹ́mi and the gaffers that help perfect the projects 

[27:21] Fẹ́mi’s experience of liking and loving cinematographers 

[32:30] Fẹ́mi’s upcoming projects and collaborations 

[34:49] How to thrive, elevate, evolve, and grow in your craft as a cinematographer 

Notable quotes: 

“The more you find about yourself, the more prepared you are to tackle the projects that come your way.”