Why I Shoot. By: Chris Marino

Cameras
Posted by Chris Marino on 24, April 2011 with 3 Comments
Twitt

I have always been fascinated with cinema. Growing up I was fortunate to have a father that was more a movie buff than me. I was introduced to classic films very early on. Our VHS player got a lot of action, burning out copies of “The Natural” & “Witness for the Prosecution”. Definitely not your typical titles that you would think a 12 year old would identify with. It wasn’t until I started driving that I would “cut” with my eyes when in the car listening to music. That is what drove me to learn to be an editor. Weird. When I went to film school I initially started on the editing path. It wasn’t until I put a bulky Canon XL-2 on my shoulder that I fell in love with looking through a lens. Never looking back to the editing room (unless I absolutely have to) I pursued my passion for cinematography. Being the visual author of a great story is what I thrive on. The capability to wield any camera, from film to digital, and create beautiful pictures is my passion.

A director and cameraman are like husband and wife. Even though they may fight, all their films are their offspring. I am a cinematographer… A film is not one individual’s method of personal expression but a matter of teamwork, cooperative venture.

-Kazuo Miyagawa

Rashômon (1950)

So after an grueling 18 hour day on set and wrapping out in the wee hours of the morning, I go home and get minimal sleep. When the alarm rings in what seems to be way to soon, I do it all over again. Why? Because I love it!

Chris Marino
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Chris Marino is a cinematographer based out of San Francisco. Being also an editor, he also writes about post production for the site. Most of his work has been on commercial spots and short narratives. Follow @chrisMmarino
  • http://wideopencamera.com Jared Abrams

    Great Post Chris. Thanks for participating in this little series. I think it is great to be able to reflect on what drives us to do what we do. I really appreciate your response.
    Thanks,
    Jared

  • http://soundcloud.com/octopod Matt

    Loved reading about what keeps you inspired. Keep doing what you do homey!

  • http://YourWebsite Sebastian_TR

    Nicely said chris – particularly like the quote by “Kazuo Miyagawa”. Keep on shooting !