MAY 20 – Cinematography is more than just capturing images; it is an art form that brings stories to life through visual storytelling. For Lewis Oscar, an MTF Academy alumnae from the class of 2024, this journey has been fueled by a deep passion for growth and a desire to push beyond his comfort zone.
Transitioning from photography to cinematography was not merely about acquiring a new skill—it was about embracing a dynamic and ever-evolving medium of storytelling. His time at MTF provided invaluable mentorship, industry exposure, and technical expertise, laying the foundation for his career in filmmaking.
However, like many filmmakers, he has faced challenges along the way, from securing funding to navigating industry uncertainties.
A Passion for Growth and Storytelling
Lewis’s inspiration to transition into cinematography stemmed from a strong desire to grow. As a photographer, he sought a new challenge that would allow him to expand his creative boundaries. That’s when he sought to pursue cinematography, an art that presented an exciting and dynamic way to diversify his craft.
It was during this period that he also came around the Multichoice Talent Factory (MTF) and tried his chance in joining the academy. His time at MTF was transformative. Being surrounded by creatives from different countries and working with experienced mentors reshaped how he approached his work. “MTF gave me the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the industry. It changed my entire perspective on storytelling,” he shares.
The one year program not only refined his technical expertise but also provided him with a broader understanding of the film industry. While he specialized in cinematography and lighting, he also developed a keen interest in editing—specifically color grading—to complement his cinematographic skills. Additionally, he gained insights into production design, sound, and even the intricacies of film distribution and marketing.
Defining Moments and Career Growth
One of the most impactful experiences during his time at MTF was working on the pre-production stage of Dead Beat, a feature film.
Crafting the visual style and aligning his vision as a director of photography with the director, crew, and production designer was an invaluable learning experience. “Pre-production is where the magic begins. Being part of that process gave me a new appreciation for how much work goes into crafting the perfect shot,” he explains. The collaboration strengthened his ability to bring a story to life through visuals.
Breaking into the film industry, however, has been an ongoing journey filled with challenges. Lewis has faced slow seasons, the struggle to secure consistent work, and the necessity of building strong industry connections.
Despite these hurdles, his defining moment came when he worked as the director of photography on his first feature film—a milestone that reinforced his passion for visual storytelling. “That experience solidified my love for cinematography. Seeing the final product come to life was truly rewarding,” he reflects.
Lewis describes his cinematography style as story-driven and intentional. He prioritizes composition first, followed by lighting and camera movement, ensuring that every frame serves a purpose.
He is particularly drawn to reality-based storytelling, with a strong interest in documentaries and drama, as these genres allow him to capture authentic and compelling narratives.
“For me, cinematography is about serving the story. Every shot, every movement, every frame should have a purpose,” he emphasizes. Intentionality is key in visual storytelling. Every element—shot composition, framing, camera movement, and lighting—must work together to serve the story. He believes that a well-thought-out visual approach enhances the overall impact of a film, setting it apart from the rest.
Challenges and the Future of Filmmaking
The film industry is not without its difficulties. Filmmakers often face unemployment, slow seasons, and the struggle to secure funding for projects.
Independent filmmakers, in particular, find it challenging to work with tight budgets while ensuring high production quality. Distribution and marketing also pose obstacles, with filmmakers striving to reach their intended audience despite challenges such as piracy.
Despite these setbacks, Lewis remains committed to staying relevant in the industry by continuously upskilling.
He follows emerging trends through social media and online resources, ensuring he remains competitive in an industry that is constantly evolving. “You have to keep learning. The industry moves fast, and if you don’t adapt, you get left behind,” he says.
He has also observed a notable shift in the Kenyan and African film industry, where production quality is steadily improving—a development that motivates him to refine his craft further.
Looking Ahead
While he has not yet worked on an international collaboration, Lewis is eager to engage in global projects. For now, he focuses on building his portfolio and selecting projects that align with his artistic vision and growth.
His ultimate goal is to contribute to the industry not only through his work but also by mentoring and fostering a community that nurtures young creatives.
His advice to aspiring filmmakers is simple: take the leap and start. “Don’t wait for the perfect moment—start with what you have and keep improving,” he advises. Persistence is key in this competitive field.
He acknowledges the value of both formal training and hands-on experience, emphasizing that structured learning provides credibility and networking opportunities, while real-world experience fosters adaptability and problem-solving skills.
“Faith, hard work, and patience—that’s what keeps me going,” he says. Success, he believes, is built through dedication and determination. As cinematography continues to evolve, Lewis is excited to grow, explore, and contribute to the industry. Every project, challenge, and experience shape his journey, and he eagerly looks forward to what lies ahead.
