Conversations with Marial Moreno Gómez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marial Moreno Gómez.

Hi Marial, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and I’ve pretty much been drawn to anything creative for as long as I can remember: arts and crafts, theater, dancing, you name it. But it wasn’t until my late teens that I stumbled into filmmaking, and it instantly felt like home. Something about holding a camera and building a story out of moments just clicked for me, and from then on I knew this was the path I wanted to follow.

At 17, I packed up my life, said goodbye to my family and friends, and moved to the U.S. to chase this dream. I studied in Philadelphia, and an internship eventually brought me to Los Angeles, a city I connected with almost immediately. Now I’m based in LA, working mostly as a cinematographer on narrative indie films. The city has given me community, opportunities, and a kind of inspiration that makes me excited about whatever comes next.

My work comes from a real love for visual storytelling and a belief that film can hit people on an emotional level like nothing else. I’m obsessed with how composition, lighting, and pacing can change the way a moment feels. I love focusing on the tiny details and creating scenes that pull viewers right into a character’s world. Movies have shaped the way I see life since I was a kid, and that’s why I’m so committed to making stories that truly resonate and inspire.

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?
It hasn’t been the easiest journey. Pursuing a film career abroad has meant constantly stepping out of my comfort zone, but honestly, that’s been one of the biggest things pushing me to grow as an artist. Moving to a new country came with its own set of challenges: figuring out how to fit into a new culture, being far from my family, and trying to learn the technical side of filmmaking in a language I was still getting used to. There were moments when everything felt overwhelming, but those moments also taught me resilience, patience, and how much I really wanted this.

Through all of that, I feel incredibly lucky to have found a community of artists and friends who have supported me every step of the way. They’ve become the people I create with, learn from, and rely on, and having that kind of support system has made all the difference.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Cinematographer (Director of Photography), and my work centers on helping directors bring their vision to life. I collaborate closely with the camera and lighting teams, shaping the look and emotional tone of a project through composition, lighting, and movement. I’m especially drawn to character-driven stories and naturalistic visuals that highlight small, meaningful details.

I’m most proud of my cinematography on the short films Connection (directed by Peter Burghen) and Super Latina (directed by Cristina Sasso). Both projects challenged me creatively and allowed me to help build a visual language that supported the story in an honest, grounded way.

What sets me apart is my perspective and my process. Coming from the Dominican Republic and working across different communities has influenced the way I see people and the way I approach storytelling. I try to show up humbly, listen carefully, and create a collaborative, supportive environment on set; while still bringing confidence in my craft and a clear vision for the images we’re trying to create

What makes you happy?
What makes me happy are the simple, grounding moments in life. Spending time with family and friends, being in my hometown, and noticing the little joys in everyday life: the shade of the trees on a sunny day, dancing to my favorite song, hot chocolate when it’s cold, my sister’s laughter, etc.

I also find happiness in seeing my community thrive, in the small everyday moments of kindness and support, and in celebrating the good things happening around me. Filmmaking is part of that too, because it allows me to connect with others and create something meaningful together. But more broadly, happiness comes from connection, creativity, and the small moments that make life feel full.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://marialmorenogomez.myportfolio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lostinyourart/