Exploring Cinematic Artistry in Documentary Filmmaking with Blake Cortes- DZOFILM Interview
Blake Cortes, a seasoned Director and Director of Photography (DP) originally from Brooklyn, NY, has spent over a decade honing his craft in the film industry. Now based in Tampa, FL, Blake’s journey has been marked by a deep connection to his roots and a passion for visual storytelling. In this article, he shares insights into his work on the documentary "ARTE ES VIDA (Art is Life)" and his experience using DZOFILM’s Vespid prime lenses.
The Inspiration Behind "ARTE ES VIDA"
As the producer, director, and DP of "ARTE ES VIDA," Blake Cortes set out to capture the powerful stories of the "Keepers of Heritage," an artist collective in Central Florida. His inspiration for the project stemmed from his work on a docuseries called "ARTDOCS TV." During a visit to Creative Pinellas, Blake was introduced to the collective, and their journey resonated with him on a personal level, especially given his Puerto Rican descent. He felt compelled to share their struggles and triumphs with a broader audience.
The Role of DZOFILM Vespid Prime Lenses
Blake chose DZOFILM’s Vespid prime lenses as the main tools for capturing the essence of the artists in "ARTE ES VIDA." These lenses were used extensively in interviews and while filming the artists in their natural environments. According to Blake, the Vespid primes offered a perfect balance of sharpness and character, avoiding the overly clinical look of other lenses. This balance allowed him to achieve a cinematic quality that aligned with his vision for the documentary.
Achieving a Cinematic Look
One of the key challenges Blake faced was achieving a film-like quality with digital equipment. The Vespid lenses played a crucial role in overcoming this challenge. Their slight softness and unique character added depth and richness to the visuals, helping Blake create an immersive experience for viewers. He particularly favored the 25mm focal length, which allowed him to capture intimate shots that made the audience feel as though they were in the room with the subjects.
Looking Ahead: Innovation in Lens Technolog
Conclusion
Blake Cortes’ work on "ARTE ES VIDA" showcases his dedication to storytelling and his ability to blend technical expertise with artistic vision. His choice of DZOFILM Vespid prime lenses played a pivotal role in achieving the documentary’s cinematic style, capturing the essence of the artists and their stories with a perfect balance of sharpness and character. As Blake continues to explore new projects, his work remains a testament to the power of visual storytelling in documentary filmmaking.
Keywords: Blake Cortes, Director of Photography, ARTE ES VIDA, documentary filmmaking, DZOFILM, Vespid prime lenses, cinematic style, visual storytelling, Keepers of Heritage, Tampa film industry.
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