Team Deakins Rodrigo Prieto
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May 5, 2021 Rodrigo Prieto, a talented cinematographer known for his work on films like THE IRISHMAN and AMORES PERROS, shares fascinating insights about his craft. He enjoys the trickery of filmmaking and reflects on his journey from Mexico to Hollywood. Prieto discusses the significance of simplicity and natural light in cinematography, his collaboration with directors like Martin Scorsese, and the evolution from film to digital technology. Anecdotes about childhood influences and the revival of Mexican cinema in the 90s highlight his passion for storytelling.
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Childhood Stop-Motion Haunted House
- Rodrigo Prieto built clay monsters and animated them on an 8mm, then projected the result onto a sheet to frighten friends at his haunted house.
- That early trickery taught him cinematic magic and sparked a lifelong fascination with practical effects.
Darkroom Taught Framing And Composition
- Working for still photographer Nadine Markova taught Rodrigo how printing choices reframe shots and shape composition.
- He learned lighting texture and people handling from studio stills work before committing to cinematography.
Break Into Union Via A Loophole
- Rodrigo describes Mexico's union barrier and a loophole that let non-union DPs work if producers paid the union the union DP salary.
- That loophole, festival success and reputation ultimately led to his official invitation into the union.
