How do you build a career as a cinematographer when the odds are against you? How do you create opportunities for yourself, when dealing with rejection, financial barriers, and prejudice? Is it possible to pursue your dream without conforming and becoming someone you are not? In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with cinematographers Bruce Cole and Alejandro Mejía to discuss: Being drawn to visual art from a young ageThe people who encouraged and inspired their creative dreamsFeeling motivated by rejection Why New York is a great place to start a film careerThe importance of having mentors in your career journeyStigmas they experience in the industry as minoritiesWhy we need to stop glamorizing film careersHow to maintain balance during long, tedious projectsCultivating yourself and embracing who you areHaving another creative form of expression outside of filmMemorable Quotes“I want to do this. I want to travel the world and know the world with a camera.” [“New York is probably the best starter city for young filmmakers from all walks of life.” [“This is not a speed race. This is a marathon. We are long-distance runners.” [“We’re losing that artistry because we are so focused on being someone else.” [Mentioned:From Landing the Job to Boosting Morale: Sundance DP Roundtable Dives into Filters & MoreMore about BruceMore about AlejandroFind No Film School everywhere:On the Webhttps://nofilmschool.com/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschoolTwitter https://twitter.com/nofilmschoolYouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/nofilmschoolSend us an email with questions or feedback: podcast@nofilmschool.com! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices