I DID not go out during the Christmas holidays and that was intentional. I did not want to commit to any event because I was in a very relaxed frame of mind and was enjoying it. I received a poster from the talented Yaphet Jackman regarding screening for the film ‘Christmas for Sale.’ It was his first feature film as a cinematographer and I am elated that I did not listen to the side of the brain that was making other things priority. To say I am super proud of him is an understatement; I was pleased to see the support received for this event.

I had breakfast with him a few days before he returned to the US where he now resides with his wife Nicole Jackman, who is also a vital part of Bent Street Films. We chatted about our vision for the creative sector in Guyana, among other things. I also shared part of my empowering journey on the African continent and my desire to return soon. We even discussed how many Guyanese have to leave to be elevated on other shores.  He reminisces about his humble beginning and his stint with our friend Rudy Saul; we met through his association with Rudy Saul. I am intrigued by his journey and I know I am not the only one, so I decided to ask him a few questions to get more insights into what he does and how he does it.

 What was it like working on your first feature film?

Honestly, in the moment, it was less about me and more about the team and the work. It doesn’t matter what the project is, I am usually fully focused on the task at hand; that is how I am able to do my best work. Creatively, I came alive primarily because everyone was at their best. It was one of the most harmonious film-making experiences I’ve had to date. It was another opportunity to learn, grow, play and do what I love, and in retrospect, one of the most validating six days of my life as a cinematographer.

Was it always your desire to be a cinematographer?

The short answer is yes! I started my journey when I was eight years old, so I wasn’t always aware of the term/title, but the description of the role fit perfectly with my dream career.

Not very often do people focus on the people behind the scenes of movies. What are some of the most important skills for a cinematographer to have?

Teamwork & team-management skills, adept at listening, strong communication skills, visualization, a strong work ethic and creativity. A cinematographer also needs to be well versed in filming operations, including understanding light, colours, shadows, movement and cameras.

How well do you handle challenges on set? How do you decide which camera and lighting equipment to use for a particular scene?

I am adept at pivoting, and I am innately a problem-solver, making it relatively easy to navigate challenges on set. As for camera and lighting decisions, given the collaborative nature of film-making, these decisions are informed by the combination of the director’s vision for the look and feel of the film, and my own vision after reading the script.

If you had to work with any movie of your choice, who would it be and why?

This was the easiest question thus far. That movie would be a feature film directed by a Guyanese director telling any of our stories about our culture, folklore or history. This film would connect our natives and the diaspora through nostalgia and unity. Why? Because it’s necessary for our upcoming generations of Guyanese to be inspired to make work in and for their motherland.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt on this journey?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of remaining open to learning & growing, focusing on team instead of self. Humility and a disciplined work ethic are also key. These lessons have carried me through my early career days, film school, & through every film project, large or small. They have kept me grounded and professional, regardless of who was in front of my camera. I’ve learned quite a lot, and I am still learning.

What is your vision for the movie industry in Guyana and the Caribbean?

My vision for the Guyanese & Caribbean film industry remains the same: the implementation and enforcement of copyright & IP laws, the growth and development of the filmography, and an increase in the number of Guyanese and Caribbean stories being told visually. I would also love for Guyanese to easily come home and work without having to “pull strings or have connections.”

What is next for Mr Jackman professionally?

The work continues! I have a few projects in the pipeline, more stories to tell, along with building my business and brand – Bent Street Films.

Mr Jackman is an inspiration to many and his journey will continue to motivate people, especially in the creative sector as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey, Life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.