Check Out Hallie Swain’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hallie Swain.

Hi Hallie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started this journey right as I entered my 30s. A farmer for about 10 years prior, I had always wanted to be in film but lacked the confidence. As I grew in the industry I realized there is a space for all types of people with all types of skills. Since I began working full time in film I have focused mostly on camera department with a short diversion to grip a couple features. Only recently have moved into a leadership role as Director of Photography, gleaning all the knowledge of the people I observed on set previously.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This industry is always a struggle, comparison and self doubt occupy a large part of my mind. I started this career 10+ years after most people. At times it feels I do not have the same amount of time to learn and fail and fight to grow my career as all the younger DPs along side me. I have gained confidence as I gain skill. None of this would have been possible without all the technicians who taught me how to shape light and frame an image, talk to actors and work with a director, hell even create an invoice. I had to learn this industry takes individual skill and creativity yes, but also an openness to collaborate. Learning the importance of your crew, the people who show up for you and give their eye to the image to create something together. Finding those people who push you to be better, that’s what drives me forward. I am very thankful to all these technicians. I have had so much luck in my short career and I am where I am right now because of all the people who have taken a chance on me.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work as a Director of Photography mostly on narrative sets. The DP works to light, frame, move, and color the image in front of you on a film, tv show or commercial. There are three departments the DP is in charge of grip, electric and camera, I operate directly and intimately with these three departments throughout the day. The director and DP also work very closely together, working through shots to capture their vision. I look at the role of the DP as a contributor to the overall vision of the director. They bring the story, you bring the visuals.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love walking along the river path, Griffith Park, tacos, the music, a freedom I feel to express myself in anyway I feel in the moment. Knowing that no matter how big I go, there will always be someone there who out does me. There can be a lot of noise in LA, learning how to drown that out has allowed me to settle in and grain confidence in feeling I belong.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hallieswain.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strayyycatt/

Image Credits
Justin Taylor Smith, Tyler Sobel