Deep Light: Empowering Cinematographers Through Community and Storytelling
Filmmaking is a collaborative effort, but department heads often lack the opportunity to share insights and experiences. Natasha Braier, a seasoned cinematographer known for her work on projects like "I Love Boosters," "The Neon Demon," and "Honey Boy," felt a sense of community when she joined the American Society of Cinematographers. However, she realized the need for a platform where aspiring cinematographers could learn and grow together. This realization led her to create Deep Light, a community that offers workshops, mentorship programs, and a worldwide crew recommendation list to support emerging talent in the industry.
Deep Light aims to shift the focus from tools to storytelling in cinematography. Braier believes that understanding the meaning behind the images we create is crucial for filmmakers. The community organizes workshops led by experienced filmmakers like Bradford Young to provide conceptual guidance and inspire young cinematographers to explore the art of image creation. Additionally, Deep Light hosts an interview series called "Through Their Eyes," where renowned cinematographers share insights on career challenges and the films that have influenced their work.
Through Deep Light, Braier hopes to foster a sense of belonging and support among independent filmmakers. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's passion for storytelling and not succumbing to the pressure of mainstream success. By creating a space for meaningful discussions and learning opportunities, Deep Light aims to empower cinematographers to pursue their creative visions and make films that resonate with their artistic values.