Episode 54: Frames in Focus with Bruce Francis Cole
Bruce Francis Cole is an esteemed cinematographer whose career has traversed both coasts of the United States and extended globally. Born and raised in Upstate New York, his artistic journey began in a surprising place—painting. Before transitioning to cinematography, Bruce honed his skills as a classical painter, drawing inspiration from the likes of Vermeer, Picasso, and Rembrandt. These formative years of artistic exploration instilled in him a deep understanding of color, light, and composition, which would later become the hallmark of his cinematic work.
Bruce's path to cinematography was as unique as it was diverse. Raised in the inner city, his exceptional talent in visual art opened doors to experiences far beyond his immediate surroundings. Fueled by his passion for social justice, Bruce embarked on a journey across America, dedicating himself to non-profit programs that aimed to make a positive impact on society. This period of exploration and activism eventually led him to discover film as a powerful art form.
His formal education in cinematography took place at both the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), where he studied under luminaries like David Gordon Green and Jeff Nichols, and later at the American Film Institute (AFI). At AFI, he refined his craft under the mentorship of renowned cinematographers Bill Dill, A.S.C., and Stephen Lighthill, A.S.C. This academic foundation paved the way for Bruce's ascent in the film industry.
Bruce's cinematic portfolio boasts a diverse range of projects, from TV shows like "Queen Sugar" and "Queer as Folk" to acclaimed films such as "Farewell Amor" and "Jinn." Notably, his international short film "Gringo Honeymoon" earned a nomination for Best Cinematography at the 2015 Madrid International Film Festival. Beyond these achievements, Bruce has lent his visual expertise to commercial giants like Nike and Apple, where he artfully blends creativity with commercial branding.
His passion for storytelling through the lens extends to his work with top-tier musicians, including Kendrick Lamar, Baby Keem, Lady Gaga, Jay-Z, Eminem, Shakira, T.I., Wyclef Jean, Chris Brown, Busta Rhymes, and Linda Perry, among others. Bruce's cinematography skills have graced music videos that have left an indelible mark on the industry.
This podcast delves into the intricate layers of Bruce Francis Cole's artistic journey, unveiling the intersections of painting, activism, and cinematography that have shaped his unique perspective. From his inner-city upbringing to his evolution as a visual artist, his story is a testament to the transformative power of art. Tune in to explore the vibrant palette of Bruce's cinematic world, where every frame is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.