[Watch the video interview on YouTube here]
Film Courage: What do you teach students your first day in class?
Suki Medenčević, ASC/NYFA Filmmaking and Cinematography Instructor, Filmmaker: I teach several classes here at NYFA [New York Film Academy]. I’ve been with NYFA for quite some time. I would say probably 12 years. I was teaching a different range of classes, anything from specific technical to hands-on practical camera exercises, lighting exercises.
What we are specifically doing here today is the lighting techniques. Different lighting techniques and basically analyzing functions of each light and what each light does to the scene and how we light the face of the actor using anything from one simple light bulb to seven different lights.
Film Courage: What are the basics of cinematography?
Suki: Well, the basics of cinematography really is writing with light, which is in the name of cinematography itself, it says writing with the lights. We as cinematographers create images which are supposed to support the emotions of the story. Cinematography is all about telling the story and creating an emotional response visually.
Film Courage: Should a new cinematographer start with a basic camera package or should they invest in an expensive advanced one and learn and move up the ranks?
Suki: Absolutely, starting with the basics is the key I think in everything. I think in every profession, in every job in the film industry specifically, because more than ever now it’s so easy to get access to the cameras which will give you a good image and make it so easy. You can pretty much start and finish on your iPhone. When I was starting, it was science fiction. Starting with a simple package to understand the basic principles of cinematography, anything from the framing, the composition, the lighting is a great start.
Once you understand how the old basic elements work together, then no camera will be too complicated for you. Everything will be so easy to understand. If you shoot on an iPhone or if you shoot with a small little Canon 5D. whatever. If you get a Red Dragon or Red V-Raptor or if you get…(Watch the video interview on YouTube here).
About:
Suki was born in Derventa, Bosnia and Herzegovina. While in high school he became interested in still photography but his real involvement in film started when he was accepted at The National Film School for Dramatic Arts, FDU, Belgrade, Yugoslavia. He continued his education at the renowned National Film School (FAMU), Prague, Czech Republic, where he earned his Master’s Degree with Honors in cinematography. Shortly thereafter, he came to the USA to continue his professional career. He was involved in several high profile documentaries for Pixar, ILM, The Hearst Corporation, “The History of Imagineering” for Disney Studios being one of them. In 2024 he received “Jan Award” by ASBH for his cinematography at “Shining Vale” series. In 2010, he became a member of the American Cinematographers Society (ASC). In addition, for his academic achievements and contribution to the art of cinematography, he was awarded a Honorary Doctorate Degree in Fine Arts. Suki is a proud father and husband and living and working in Los Angeles.
CONNECT WITH SUKI MEDENCEVIC
About New York Film Academy:
Founded in 1992 by Jerry Sherlock, the New York Film Academy (NYFA) provides an accessible, hands-on education in filmmaking, media, and the performing arts. With a mission to make the film industry more accessible to all, NYFA empowers students from diverse backgrounds to tell powerful stories through a project-based, immersive curriculum. Students work closely with industry professionals, gaining invaluable mentorship and real-world experience while building creative, technical, and collaborative skills. NYFA’s global community includes students from over 160 countries, fostering a network of passionate storytellers. From day one, students dive into creating projects that refine their craft and prepare them for successful careers. With a focus on practical experience and individualized support, NYFA equips students with the tools and confidence to excel in the competitive world of filmmaking and the arts.
CONNECT WITH NYFA
Nyfa.edu/location/nyfa-los-angeles
Advertisement – contains affiliate links
(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Camera we use for interviews – https://buff.ly/3rWqrra
Sound we use for interviews – https://amzn.to/2tbFlM9
Other books on Amazon that Film Courage recommends – https://buff.ly/3o0oE5o
