Francisco Lopez: From the Bronx to Big-Time Videography
Photos by Victor Jones
In a recent interview on The Day With Trae, guest host Besa Gordon sat down with renowned videographer and cinematographer Francisco Lopez. Lopez, whose work has been featured in projects like "The Day with Trae" and "Pickleball for All," shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a sought-after name in the industry.
A Decade of Dedication
Lopez's passion for visual storytelling began a decade ago in Seattle. While working as a union cabler, he felt a pull back to his music roots in New York. Returning to the Bronx, he started a label and began producing music, but soon realized the need for captivating visuals to accompany the sound.
The iPhone That Launched a Career
With no prior experience and limited resources, Lopez took a leap of faith. He picked up an iPhone 3 and started experimenting with video recording and editing. His raw talent and determination quickly shone through, and within a month, he had created ten videos, catching the attention of artists and collaborators.
From iPhones to Cinematic Excellence
As Lopez's skills grew, so did his tools. He invested in a 5D Mark II camera, which allowed him to achieve the cinematic look he had always envisioned. His dedication to storytelling and visually stunning aesthetics set him apart, leading to collaborations with notable figures in the music industry.
Capturing Stories Through Slow-Mo
One of Lopez's signature techniques is the use of slow-motion, which he initially adopted as a gimmick but soon became a powerful tool for storytelling. By slowing down the pace, he could capture the emotion and grandeur of a moment, creating a more immersive experience for the viewer.
A Bronx Tale Told Through the Lens
Lopez's upbringing in the Bronx heavily influenced his style. He learned to use the urban environment to his advantage, framing shots that reflected the grit and resilience of the community. This ability to capture the essence of a place and its people became a hallmark of his work.
Working with the Stars
Lopez's talent and dedication opened doors to work with some of the biggest names in the music industry. He has shot videos for artists like Charlie Clips, DNA, Nems, Vado, Busta Rhymes, and even DJ Khaled.
The Dream of Directing a Movie
While Lopez has achieved remarkable success in the music video world, his ultimate goal is to direct a movie. Inspired by the works of Martin Scorsese, Spike Lee, and John Woo, he aspires to create compelling visual narratives that resonate with audiences on a larger scale.
Advice for Aspiring Videographers
Lopez encourages aspiring videographers to start with whatever tools they have available. He believes that passion and skill are more important than expensive equipment. His own journey, from shooting with an iPhone to working with industry giants, is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication.
For more tune in with Trae every weekday at 11 a.m. on all Converge Media platforms and The Day With Trae YouTube Channel.
