Meet Matthew Rivera | Cinematographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matthew Rivera and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matthew, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I believe it’s imperative to take risks. Whether it pertains to business or life’s personal choices, risk taking can play as a personal barometer of where we are and where we can go! How will we ever get a sense of our potential if we never take risks? Risk taking is discomforting. However, I’ve always found a hefty reward on the other side of the risk. Adversity within the risk can contribute to forging discipline and strong character.

Like many, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my dream to work in the film industry. Transplanting myself into the second largest city in the US felt risky and daunting. I constantly asked my self how I would ever make it or find success. I had a fear that LA would eat me up and spit me out! I had to remind myself why I wanted to work in film and continue to ask myself if I’m willing to endure every level of difficulty to achieve my goals. Once my reasoning led to a resolute “yes,” the risk immediately became worth it. My perspective on the risk shifted to unwavering determination without compromise. I have now been in Los Angeles for over 8 years and have built a strong network and community of friends and colleagues. I love the life I have pursued, and I truly believe it is rooted in the act of taking risks.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Despite no longer being enrolled as a student, I decided to continue cultivating friendships and crewing on as many student films as possible. I figured it was the best way for me to learn and turn my negative circumstance into a positive one. Those student connections eventually led to working on low-budget indie films, sometimes for free and other times for low rates. I honestly didn’t mind the low rates; I just wanted to be on set and close to the camera. I developed a love for the grip and lighting department and determined that would be my path to becoming a cinematographer.

I eventually joined Chicago’s IATSE Local 476 and had the privilege to crew and learn on some fairly massive union sets. I was able to experience how moviemaking was achieved on a grander scale and learned how to be more precise in the process of technically achieving a creative vision. In the meantime, I pursued relationships with directors and had opportunities to shoot and DP small projects. That also led to an innate interest in still photography. My portfolio was developing while my technical knowledge was expanding.

In 2016, I decided to move to Los Angeles and divert all of my efforts to pursue cinematography full-time. It definitely has not been an easy journey. Eight years later, I’m truly grateful I made the move. I’ve had the pleasure of shooting numerous projects and I’m proud to announce I have my first theatrical released feature film debuting later this year!

My love for movies and filmmaking has guided me on an incredible journey. The road may have had its twists and turns, but I have embraced the challenges and pursued my dreams with unwavering determination. The lesson here is to not give up amidst setbacks. Stay the course, be persistent, and remain vigilant in all pursuits.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I really enjoy Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Echo Park and the Arts District. It has every slice of life and the food/coffee options are exceptional. Breakfast and coffee at either Doubting Thomas or All Time always hits the spot. However, Intelligentsia on Sunset is probably my go-to spot. They’re so consistent. A trip to LA wouldn’t be complete without venturing over to Echo Park Lake and maybe hit up some record stores in the area. Any hiking trail around or near Griffith is must! Especially when the sun is setting. For a divey nightlife experience, I’m partial to Crawfords on Beverly. Probably some of the best fried Chicken in LA. There’s so much to do and experience. With all its quarks, LA can be such a romantic and inspirational place.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A shoutout is an opportunity to recognize and give exposure to individuals who deserve it. There are several people I would like to shoutout.

First and foremost, I cannot complete this shoutout without mentioning my parents. My mom recognized and nurtured my artistic abilities, while my dad constantly encouraged me to never give up on my dreams. I am incredibly grateful for the values they instilled in me.

I also want to dedicate my shoutout to my former art teacher, Peggy Rawl. Mrs. Rawl introduced me to a diverse range of artists and cultivated a broad perspective in me. Her teaching style encouraged me to loosen up and enjoy the process of creating art.

Additionally, I must give a shoutout to my former Digital Advertising and Design instructor, Danita Swaney. Mrs. Swaney not only taught me the principles of design but also pushed me to take on challenging projects and strive for excellence. Her influence has shaped my journey and work ethic.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge Merna Holloway, whom I met during my time at the Apple Store. She placed my first still camera in my hands, and since then, my life has been transformed. Photography became my passion, thanks to her and the Leica M6 she passed down to me.

I am genuinely thankful for these incredible individuals and the profound impact they have had on my life. The world needs more people like them.

Website: www.matthewrivera.com

Instagram: matthewrivera

Other: vimeo.com/matthewrivera

Image Credits
Joe McNairy Hayden Warner Preston Lewis