We talk with Detroit-based DP, Ray Rushing, about his evolution from corporate photographer to freelance cinematographer in Episode 28 of Spokes.

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  • Many directors and DPs start off as production assistants in the film industry. Today’s guest learned to become a DP on the job. Starting off as a history major with a photography position at Quicken Loans, Ray Rushing went through the motions to become a freelance cinematographer. In this episode, he shares his evolution as a DP, as well as developing a leadership aspect to the job.

• Talking Points

  • Ray’s transition from history major to cinematographer

  • His learning curve going from filming for Quicken Loans to going freelance

  • “Morphing” your cinematic style to the project and the optimal project to doing so

  • The team aspect of filmmaking and adjusting to the number of crew members per project

  • Going through projects during COVID

  •  Evolving as a DP and learning why lighting matters

  • What he brings on-set

  • How having a good reel doesn’t necessarily translate to jobs

  • Marketing Yourself

  • Hobbies outside filmmaking

• Social Media

  • IG: rayrushing

  • Twitter: @rayrushing

  • Link: rayrushing.tv