Today we’d like to introduce you to Gareth Taylor.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
As far as I can remember I loved watching films and TV shows (what kid doesn’t?…). It was a way to discover worlds I didn’t know about and live vicariously through fascinating characters. Growing up in Switzerland, those things seemed that much more distant from me and therefore had a strong impact. It elevated my imagination and curiosity.
After high school, not really knowing what direction I was headed towards, it hit me that movies was something I was really passionate about and willing to invest my existence in. After moving halfway across the world to LaLa land, I got myself through film school studying writing and directing. It is there that I discovered what a cinematographer was. I had always enjoyed taking photos and playing with different film stocks and processes. It just made sense to merge my affinity for storytelling with my passion for photography.
Following graduation, it all clicked and I was on sets learning to light and worked my way up to director of photography within a couple years. Since then I have spent the last 10 years shooting films, commercials, documentaries, music videos, branded content and all sorts of other projects. In the process, I was lucky enough to travel to many parts of the world, which provided me with unforgettable experiences while broadening my horizons as a human being.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Nothing is ever a smooth ride, especially in the entertainment industry for a freelance artist. To this day I have to hustle and really push to find projects and get myself out there to find work.
The competition is fierce with so many people wanting to do the same thing. Technology has made grabbing a camera and shooting much easier and attainable by the masses, which is a double edge sword. It democratizes filmmaking but at the same time allows anybody with a camera to call themselves a “DP” (director of photography).
Beyond the challenges tied with the business side of things, there’s a constant struggle to find balance within while juggling life, health, relationships and other passions one might have.
But in the grand scheme of things, looking at my life in the world, while so many struggle just for food and shelter, I think I got a hell of a smooth road and am extremely fortunate to not only have the privilege to pursue what I love but to actually be successfully doing so.
Tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
As a cinematographer, beyond the technical scope of cameras, optics and lights, I’m a storyteller and creator. The frame is my canvas, and along with the director, I craft the visual landscape of a film, commercial, documentary or whatever project is at hand. I love the collaborative nature of this medium. Every project is different and I like to treat each one that way. I don’t pretend to have a style that defines my work. I adapt to every story or brand and find a visual language that best complements the characters and environments.
Having worked on so many types of projects and in so many different countries makes me versatile and comfortable with finding ways to achieve what is needed by embracing challenges. I also speak French and get around in German, Italian and Spanish, which helps tremendously when working abroad. I’ve shot feature films, commercials, branded content, documentaries, corporate videos, live events, music videos and many other types of projects. Some of the companies I’ve done work for include Ford, Visa, Hyundai, Intel, Mercedes, Hewlett Packard, Lexus and Samsung.
Many projects have garnered awards and been recognized at festivals around the world.
My work can also be seen on Amazon, Netflix and other streaming services. One of the most important aspects of keeping a healthy and successful career is connecting with people. At the end of the day, you have to make sure the client is happy and it’s only with a solid team (or a happy family as I like to see it) that great things are achieved.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
There’s only one way up as they say. The future is always unknown and all I focus on is the now and how I can make it the best possible. I think that’s the only way I can set myself up for the best possible future.
Of course, I have high aspirations and want many things to come out of my career but I decided to lessen the amount of pressure I put on myself day in and day out. It’s healthier and I’m happier that way. And sure enough, my work benefits from a peaceful state of mind.
But yes I would love to be shooting 2-3 quality features, maybe a cool TV show and a few fun commercials every year. There you have it.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.GarethTaylor.film
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gareth_taylor/
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