newportFILM celebrated its fourth Cinematography Lab, on Oct. 18-20 at the Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown, R.I. The Cinematography Lab provides creative support and mentorship to emerging documentary cinematographers positioned to have lasting impact within the industry. This selective program brought together ten filmmakers from across the country – four mentors and six fellows – for feedback and reflection on process, craft, and issues facing the industry today.
Robb Moss (Harvard University, Professor of Art, Film and Visual and Studies) returned as a mentor this year alongside Julia Liu who is based in Providence, R.I. (Cinematographer, Still: A Michael J. Fox Film), Ruchi Mithal (Producer, This World Is Not My Own) and Martina Radwan (Cinematographer, Girls State). Accepted fellows in this year’s program included Suzette Burton, Crystal Kelley, Gabriel Long, Melissa Tinambacan, João Vieira and Shuling Yong.
Credit: Madison Van Wylen
Students from Salve Regina University and The Met School East Bay, including participants from newportFILM’s Documentary Unbound program, attended select sessions, where they had the opportunity to sit in on the mentors’ presentations to learn about the craft and career possibilities. On Saturday evening, local community partners, supporters and New England-based filmmakers joined the cohort of fellows and mentors for a Gathering to network and have conversation.
Accepted fellow and local Providence-based filmmaker, Gabriel Long said “This year’s newportFILM Cinematography Lab was a unique and profound experience for me. The location, the talent of the people involved, and the meticulous planning of the weekend created an environment where I was able to find creative focus and inspiration. It felt like a turning point not only for my current project but for my career as a filmmaker.”
Robb Moss added, “Now in my fourth year as a mentor with the newportFILM Cinematography Lab, I continue to be impressed with the caliber of talented filmmakers involved. The Lab offers a rare space to come together, collaborate, and reflect on work while exploring the vital role of cinematography in nonfiction storytelling.”
