In a recent episode of A Conversation with Floyd Marshall Jr., cinematographer Michelle Clementine, one of the few African American and Latina cinematographers in the industry, shared her journey, insights, and experiences. The interview, titled "Black Women In Focus," highlights Clementine's unique perspective as a trailblazer in a field historically dominated by white men.
From Humble Beginnings to Cinematic Excellence
Michelle Clementine's career began with an internship at the TriBeCa Film Festival in 2005. After earning her B.A. in Film Production from Brooklyn College, she joined IATSE Local 600 in 2010. Her journey took a significant turn in 2018 when she participated in the inaugural Cinematography Intensive for Women at the American Film Institute. This program led her to Los Angeles, where she honed her skills on various narrative films and television shows.
During the interview, Clementine reflected on her early days in the industry, sharing how she overcame initial doubts about pursuing a career in cinematography. Despite her love for photography, she initially dismissed it as "a white man's sport." However, her determination and passion for storytelling through visuals kept her on the path, eventually leading her to where she is today.
Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry
Clementine candidly discussed the challenges she faced as a woman of color in a predominantly male industry. She shared how she was often advised to pursue roles more traditionally associated with women, such as producing or writing, rather than cinematography. However, her resolve to stay true to her passion for camera work led her to push through these barriers.
"Men are gonna men," Clementine remarked, addressing the gender dynamics she has encountered throughout her career. She emphasized the importance of not letting these challenges deter women from pursuing their goals. Her approach to dealing with the aggressive communication often found in the industry was shaped by her upbringing in New York, where she learned to develop a thick skin and persevere.
Giving Back to the Community
One of the most inspiring aspects of Clementine's career is her commitment to mentoring and supporting other women of color interested in cinematography. After gaining experience and recognition in the industry, she began leading training sessions for Black women interested in pursuing a career in camera work. This initiative eventually led to her appointment as the chairwoman of the women’s committee for the western region at the International Cinematographer’s Guild.
Clementine's dedication to fostering a community of women in cinematography is evident in the success of these training sessions, which have drawn large groups of women eager to learn and grow in the field. Her efforts have not only provided invaluable opportunities for these women but have also helped to diversify the industry.
The Importance of Preparation and Relationships
Throughout the interview, Clementine underscored the importance of being prepared on set and the value of strong relationships in the industry. She highlighted how preparation allows for creative flexibility, enabling cinematographers to adapt to unexpected challenges on set. Additionally, she emphasized that building and maintaining relationships is crucial for career growth, as much of her work has come through word-of-mouth and recommendations from colleagues.
In closing, Michelle Clementine’s interview serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, talent, and determination required to succeed in the film industry.
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