Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Azzaro
Hi Nick, 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?
Thanks to VoyageLA for having me again. Over the past few years, I’ve grown significantly, gaining a deeper understanding of the film industry as a whole. I originally came to LA intending to become a director, excited to tell stories, yet unsure how to make the best out of my artistic predisposition. Transitioning to bigger-scale productions, I learned that cinematography is where I can truly utilize my skills to the fullest and have the most rewarding experiences. It’s been all about self-discovery: as I’ve learned more about the craft, I’ve also learned more about myself.
Sometimes you think you know where you’re headed, but then life has something else in store for you. One of the key lessons I’ve learned is to never say no to an opportunity and to embrace the challenges and rewards it may offer. I’m fully focused on advancing my career as a cinematographer, gathering as much knowledge and experience as possible. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the field of cinematography by working on many great films, and I’m excited about the journey ahead.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road surely hasn’t been smooth, but would it be rewarding otherwise? Going through a global pandemic and the writers’ and actors’ strikes was tough on everyone, but especially on emerging filmmakers who are now directly competing against seasoned professionals as things slowly return to normal. Adding to the challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of responsibility that comes with a fast-paced job like mine, especially as a freelancer focused on expanding my portfolio and further establishing myself in the industry.
However, when you suddenly find yourself with a lot of unexpected free time, and your routine slows down for once, you truly realize how much you love your job and that you wouldn’t do anything else in the world. These challenging times made my passion stronger than ever and served as a much-welcome boost of motivation to always give my best.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a cinematographer specializing in narrative. My portfolio includes numerous films as director of photography, camera operator, and gaffer, which allowed me to collaborate with both seasoned and emerging talents.
I’m passionate about taking the audience on a journey through visual storytelling. Visuals play a key role in immersing viewers, and I’m always eager to explore new tools and techniques to tell stories in original ways. My Italian origins enable me to bring a unique perspective to the films I shoot. Growing up in Italy, I developed a deep appreciation for art in everyday life, honing my eye for aesthetics, which is critical for any cinematographer. I am fascinated by lenses, lighting, and color, and these elements play a significant role in my work.
In 2023, I was selected as one of the five cinematographers for the Gold Rising Production Track by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This program provided me with invaluable mentorship and hands-on experience, including collaborating on a short film starring Ellen Greene and Shannon Dang. The film was shot in part on the virtual production stage at Universal Studios and supervised by industry veterans like Michael Goi, ASC.
When I’m not serving as director of photography and camera operator, I’m busy gaffing. Lighting is crucial in creating a specific mood that can profoundly affect the audience and move the narrative forward by drawing attention to what’s important. Having a trained eye and a thorough understanding of lighting fundamentals, techniques, and equipment can only make you a better cinematographer.
Lighting a scene on set requires inventiveness, efficiency, and adaptability. Recently, I gaffed two feature films currently pending distribution. The production of these films spanned nearly two months, involving challenging locations in the desert and numerous overnight shoots. This experience was an excellent training ground for honing my skills.
I’ve also had success with a few directorial efforts. My sci-fi short film “Retrieval” is available to stream for free on DUST after a successful festival run. My latest short film, “Alpha 27,” will have its LA premiere at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood as part of the 20th annual Oscar-qualifying HollyShorts. I served as the cinematographer on both films as well.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
People who have met me for the first time in recent years often say I come across as an extrovert, and I’m always surprised to hear that. The truth is, I’ve always been an introvert in my personal life. However, it turns out that I’m quite the opposite when it comes to making films. No matter if it’s a prep meeting, a location scout, or filming on set, the extrovert in me comes out while I work, boosting my confidence and energy while I’m doing what I love. It’s an interesting contrast, and I think it highlights how passion can transform someone’s demeanor in unexpected ways!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nickazzaro.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickazzaro/
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9872959/
Image Credits
Stills from “Alpha 27”, “Retrieval”, “Dear Life” – cinematography by Nick Azzaro
“Anarchist Girl” BTS by Lucas Daniel
“Estelle” panel discussion © A.M.P.A.S.
“Fe” BTS by Zach Goodwin
“White Vinegar” BTS by Kushagra Jain
