Rachel Clark, a talented cinematographer known for *Edge of Summer* and *I Am Ruth*, shares her inspiring journey from a camera department runner to a leading DP. She emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and mentorship, particularly in overcoming industry challenges. Rachel discusses her creative approach to handheld cinematography and the emotional depth captured in projects like *I Am Ruth*. She also recounts the unique challenges faced while filming *Edge of Summer*, including resourcefulness in a tin mine during the pandemic.
Rachel Clark's unconventional journey to cinematography highlights the importance of perseverance and mentorship in overcoming industry obstacles.
She emphasizes the need for inclusivity and equity in filmmaking, advocating for opportunities for underrepresented talent amid persistent sexism.
Clark's collaborative experiences with directors showcase the significance of fostering a supportive environment to enhance storytelling through cinematography.
Deep dives
Rachel Clark's Unexpected Journey into Cinematography
Rachel Clark's path to becoming a cinematographer was not a linear one, beginning in a working-class town in northeast England where filmmaking was not a common aspiration. Her love for art, fueled by a supportive environment, led her to be passionate about photography, which initially seemed like a way to leave her hometown and explore the world. After studying photography in art school, Rachel discovered her love for cinema through an inspiring teacher who introduced her to independent films, sparking a desire to engage deeply with the medium. This eventually led her to explore a career in film, starting from a humble position as a runner and progressing through persistence and a genuine curiosity about the craft.
The Learning Curve in the Film Industry
Rachel's entry into the film industry was characterized by a hands-on approach, where she learned the intricacies of film production from the ground up. Starting as a runner on a Michael Winterbottom film, she gradually worked her way through various roles in the camera department, including being a loader and then training as a focus puller. The supportive relationships she built with experienced crew members were vital, as they encouraged her to take on challenging roles and expanded her technical skills. As she gained confidence through patience and on-the-job learning, Rachel transitioned into focus pulling, which ultimately positioned her for a career as a full-fledged cinematographer.
Navigating Gender Dynamics in Cinematography
Rachel candidly discussed the sexism she experienced as a woman in a predominantly male industry, noting that it was often challenging to gain trust and recognition. While she observed some progress in gender dynamics, she emphasized that there is still substantial work needed to achieve equality in the film industry. Rachel expressed her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment on her sets, giving opportunities to young filmmakers and supporting underrepresented talent. She recognizes that her path has required resilience and hard work, and she aims to create opportunities that may not have been available to her.
The Impact of Mentorship and Collaboration
Rachel credits mentorship and collaboration with significant influences on her career, particularly her experience working closely with directors like Andrea Arnold and with some talented DPs. These relationships helped Rachel develop a strong understanding of storytelling through visuals and the importance of creating a comfortable and trusting atmosphere for actors. During projects like 'I Am Ruth', where shooting style required extreme improvisation, Rachel relied on her instincts and training, capturing raw emotions in real-time. This collaborative spirit also extended to her latest film, 'Cece Emily', where she worked with a first-time female director and felt supported to bring their shared vision to life without pressure from above.
Embracing Change in the Film Industry
As Rachel reflects on the current landscape of the film industry, she notes the challenges independent films face due to funding cuts and shifting production paradigms, particularly post-COVID-19. She highlights the importance of supporting independent cinema to allow for creativity and growth, acknowledging that many projects have fallen by the wayside as funding sources dwindle. Despite these challenges, Rachel remains optimistic, expressing hope for the resurgence of independent films and her desire to be involved in projects that value authentic storytelling. She recognizes the delicate balance between technological advancements in filmmaking and the need to retain the personal touch and creativity that initially drew her to the craft.
SEASON 2 - EPISODE 117 - Rachel Clark - Cinematographer
Cinematographer Rachel Clark (EDGE OF SUMMER, QUEENIE, I AM RUTH) joins us on this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast. Hailing from northeast England, Rachel, far-removed from the film industry, nonetheless found her way into the camera department and has since worked her way up the grades to helm the department herself. We discuss the challenges and obstacles in her journey to becoming a cinematographer, and she reflects on the stubbornness that pushed her through them all. We also discuss how her approach to working as a DP has evolved, and she reflects on her experiences shooting I AM RUTH within the bounds of director Dominic Savage’s unique vision. Rachel also shares her experience shooting EDGE OF SUMMER with children and her yearning to film as much as possible on location in a nearby tin mine. Plus, we learn about Rachel’s fortuitous early-career run-in with cinematographer Robbie Ryan dancing in a field at a music festival.
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This episode is sponsored by Aputure
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