Meet Nick Azzaro

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nick Azzaro. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nick below.

Hi Nick, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re very focused on here – improving our ability to make decisions. Everyday, we’re faced with decisions that can impact the future of our careers, businesses, relationships and more and so one of the most impactful areas for personal development, in our view, is decision-making. Can you talk to us about how you developed or improved your decision-making skills?

As a cinematographer, I have to deal with countless choices, both during prep and on set. Some of these can make or break a production, so I must be able to think on the spot and make the right decisions to effectively serve the story. There is no right or wrong way to develop these skills, as it all comes naturally with experience. However, the best decisions I make usually come by following my instincts, backed up by years of movie-watching, filming, and problem-solving. Once I make a choice and see its outcome, it’s also important for me to break down why that decision was a good or bad idea in the first place. This way, I can always learn from my successes and failures, shaping me into a better cinematographer.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a Los Angeles-based cinematographer originally from Italy, specializing in narrative filmmaking. My extensive portfolio includes work as a director of photography, camera operator, and gaffer.

From a young age, films helped me cope with loneliness and isolation due to some health issues I had. This early connection with cinema inspired me to make my own films, finding my voice through storytelling. Growing up in a small Italian town, I dreamed of a career in Hollywood like the filmmakers I admired. In 2017, I moved to LA to attend film school, where I earned a BFA in filmmaking followed by an MFA in cinematography.

In 2023, I was selected as one of five cinematographers for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Gold Rising Production Track. This program provided invaluable mentorship and hands-on experience, including collaborating on a short film starring Ellen Greene and Shannon Dang. Part of the film was shot on the virtual production stage at Universal Studios, under the guidance of industry veterans like Michael Goi, ASC.

I am passionate about taking audiences on journeys through visual storytelling. Visuals are crucial for immersing viewers, and I am always eager to explore new tools and techniques to tell stories in original ways. My Italian heritage gives me a unique perspective; growing up in Italy, I developed a deep appreciation for art in everyday life, honing my eye for aesthetics. I am particularly fascinated by lenses, lighting, and color, which play significant roles in my work.

When not serving as a director of photography or camera operator, I am busy gaffing. Lighting is essential in creating specific moods that enhance the narrative and guide the audience’s focus. A keen eye and deep understanding of lighting techniques and equipment are vital for any cinematographer. Recently, I gaffed two feature films awaiting distribution. These projects, shot over nearly two months in challenging desert locations with numerous overnight shoots, were excellent for refining my skills.

My directorial efforts have also found success. My sci-fi short film “Retrieval” is available for streaming on DUST after a successful festival run. My latest short film, “Alpha 27,” will have its LA premiere at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood as part of the 20th annual Oscar-qualifying HollyShorts. I served as the cinematographer for both films as well.

Looking ahead, I aim to break into the world of feature films and series, collaborating with directors and producers to craft visuals that resonate emotionally with audiences.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Being a cinematographer requires a diverse set of skills, not just in terms of technical knowledge, but also as a collaborator. As I mentioned previously, in addition to knowing where to place the camera and how to move it, I believe one of the most invaluable assets a cinematographer has to tell a story is lighting. Young filmmakers should take the time to study it properly and shoot as much as they can. Any kind of practice is good practice.

Leadership is a critical skill to have on a project, especially as a department head. So many people rely on you and your decisions, and you have to be able to communicate with precision, confidence, and a good attitude, ultimately bringing everyone together to achieve the director’s vision. A crew needs to be able to put their trust in you so that you can be supported by their skills and collectively make something great.

Lastly, I value honesty in a creative setting. I want my clients to know precisely what they can expect from me. If there are any concerns, I like to address them so that they can be resolved before they become issues. Building trust and respect comes naturally as a result.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I’m actively looking to expand my network and collaborate with like-minded creatives. Specifically, I am eager to connect with producers and directors who are working on features and short films. Music artists in the LA scene are also welcome to reach out, as I find music videos incredibly fun and creatively stimulating to shoot.

Ultimately, if you have a unique story to tell and you need help bringing it to life in an original, inventive way, I’m your guy! If you’re passionate about your vision and dedicated to creating something special, I would love to hear from you. You can connect with me via email at nickazzaro.la@gmail.com or through social media.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nickazzaro.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickazzaro/
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9872959/

Image Credits

Stills from “Alpha 27”, Priest, Retrieval – cinematography by Nick Azzaro

“Alpha 27” BTS by Alejandro Zamudio

Dances With Films red carpet by James Valdez

“Estelle” panel discussion © A.M.P.A.S.

“Fe” BTS by Zach Goodwin