With hundreds of careers and opportunities, the Filmmaking industry can be a unique experience for a Filmmaker. Options include pitching an idea, or a commission through screenwriting, casting, shooting, editing, and screening your project. Filmtools decided to take a deeper look into the world of a Filmmaker. This week, we had the opportunity to speak to Filmmaker Barry Cheong about his work. This is what he said:
Barry Cheong: My name is Barry Cheong, originally born in South Africa, but have been in Toronto, Canada for most of my life.
What is your primary role on set?
Barry Cheong: I work as a freelance Cinematographer. More recently, in addition to my freelance work, I’ve also started as a content producer for 2D House, an equipment rental and production facility company in Toronto.
Who is a person in the industry that is on top of his or her game in your role?
Barry Cheong: As a Cinematographer, I’d have to say, Roger Deakins.
If you had to impress someone with your work, what would be the most “well-known” content that you’ve worked on?
Barry Cheong: Hmmm… that’s a tough question – Youtube wise I started a channel called “Cine In the 6” doing tech/gear reviews, which was well received for the limited time I was doing it. That parlayed into my job at 2D House now, where I’ve started making similar content.
Best craft service food?
Barry Cheong: For hot subs – I’d have to go with a classic, Mac, and Cheese. If I’m going to the table myself, I’m generally going for something salty.. or the gummy worms…hahaha.
What’s the coolest project you’ve worked on before?
Barry Cheong: I’ve been a part of all kinds of different projects over the years. I’m not sure I can nail down just one!
What’s the first thing you do on set?
Barry Cheong: Scope out the best place to park.
How did you break into the industry?
Barry Cheong: I started as a high school co-op student, then an office PA, then a production coordinator, eventually went to film school, camera/lighting assisted very briefly on mainly corporate type shoots, and then started shooting.
Current TV obsession?
Barry Cheong: Chefs Table Season 4
Do you binge-watch shows or pace them out?
Barry Cheong: If I have the time and I really get into it, I’ll binge a little. Generally, I’ll try to pace it out.
What piece of gear do you have your eye on?
Barry Cheong: The new Rosco DMG Lumiere MIX line of LED lights look pretty sweet. Also looking at the Fujifilm XT20 w/ a 35mm f/2 prime to compliment my Fujifilm X70. And lastly Freefly’s new Movi’s for cellphones…
Camera – Should you own or rent?
Barry Cheong: It honestly really depends on your own situation. Truthfully I would probably never drop the money on an Alexa or high-end RED system, but I have owned several DSLR’s, a C100 and I own an FS7. They’ve all made both professional and business sense for my own situation.
Lenses – Should you own or rent?
Barry Cheong: The same thing applies.
What is your preferred camera system?
Barry Cheong: I’d like to think I’m pretty camera agnostic. Yes, I own several cameras, but if I don’t think it’s the right tool for the job I won’t push it just to get the rental. I think it’s important to have a good relationship with a rental house for this reason.
Someone that is starting out in the industry, what advice would you give them?
Barry Cheong: Work hard and try your best to be nice to everyone.
Where can people see your work?
Barry Cheong: You can check out my website at www.barrycheong.com. You can also follow me on Instagram @barrycheongdotcom and follow 2D House (@2dhouse) on Instagram, Youtube and Facebook.
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