Meet Hugo Will | Cinematographer

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

Hi Hugo, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
To be honest, there wasn’t a single moment where I consciously decided, “I’m going to start a business.” It was much more organic than that. I’ve always had a deep passion for visual storytelling and cinematography. It began as a hobby—something I would do for fun, experimenting with cameras and capturing moments that intrigued me. Over time, this hobby became more than just a pastime.

As I got deeper into the craft, I started taking on small freelance gigs, first in Ukraine, and later in Los Angeles. Little by little, I built up my experience and skill set. It was only when I started getting consistent work and realized the demand for my services that I began to structure my passion into a proper business model. I think that’s the best way to start a business—when you love what you do and it grows naturally. For me, it wasn’t about making money or becoming a business owner, it was simply about doing what I loved. The business just followed. Now, I run my own production company, Hugo Will Productions, and I can say that turning my passion into a career has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Thank you for the kind words! My journey in the film industry spans over 13 years. It all started back in Ukraine, where I picked up a camera for the first time. I fell in love with the craft almost immediately. I didn’t have any formal training—no film school background—so I had to teach myself everything from scratch. I watched endless tutorials, read countless articles, and most importantly, experimented. It was very much a “learn-by-doing” approach.

Nine years ago, I moved to Los Angeles, which felt like a natural step forward given the city’s reputation as the heart of the entertainment industry. Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to work on a wide range of projects. I’ve shot everything—commercials, music videos, documentaries, interviews, corporate projects, and feature films. I like to think of myself as a versatile cinematographer. I don’t limit myself to one genre or style. I believe that every project, no matter the size, deserves the same level of passion and commitment.
One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been my ability to figure things out on my own. Since I didn’t attend film school, I had to approach cinematography with a problem-solving mindset. I joke that I “reinvented the bicycle” because I had to discover techniques and workflows without the guidance of formal education. But that struggle was also my greatest teacher. It forced me to understand every technical aspect of the camera, lighting, composition, and storytelling. And that knowledge is something I carry with me into every project I do today.

Now, I have my own production company and YouTube channel where I continue to explore the craft of filmmaking and share insights with others. I’ve also been lucky to work with high-profile clients and talents, and my work has gained millions of views online, which has been incredibly validating. But the work itself is what keeps me going—the ability to create something visually compelling and emotionally impactful.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles is such a diverse city, and there’s so much to see and do. If my best friend was visiting, I’d want to give them a mix of the iconic spots along with some local gems.

For starters, I love the beach, so I’d definitely spend a day or two along the coast. Malibu is one of my favorite spots—it’s less crowded than other beaches, and the views are just stunning. We’d start the day with a morning hike in the Malibu hills to catch the sunrise, then head down to Zuma Beach for some relaxation. After that, I’d take them to Nobu Malibu for lunch. The food is incredible, and the ocean views are unbeatable.

We’d also hit up Venice Beach for the more eclectic vibe—it’s a completely different scene with street performers, skaters, and unique shops. And of course, Santa Monica Pier is always a must-see for first-timers, especially around sunset when the Ferris wheel lights up.

For some culture, I’d take them to Griffith Observatory for stargazing and views of the Hollywood sign. It’s a great way to appreciate the city’s landscape, especially at night. The Getty Museum is another favorite of mine. It’s not just about the art inside but also the architecture and gardens. Plus, the view from the Getty is one of the best in LA.

I’d also want to show them Beverly Hills, particularly Rodeo Drive, because it’s such a quintessential LA experience. But for a more laid-back vibe, we’d explore the trendy spots in Silver Lake or West Hollywood. In the evenings, we’d check out some rooftop bars in Downtown LA for a good drink and an amazing view of the city skyline.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a big shoutout to the online filmmaking community. When I was just starting, I didn’t have the traditional route of film school to rely on. I was self-taught, and a huge part of my education came from YouTube and online resources. There are so many creators out there who share their knowledge for free, helping people like me learn the ins and outs of filmmaking.

So, I’d like to recognize all the independent content creators, YouTubers, and educators who take the time to break down complex subjects and make them accessible to aspiring filmmakers. The beauty of this industry is that there’s always something new to learn, and platforms like YouTube make that knowledge accessible to anyone with a passion and a camera.

Additionally, I’d like to shout out to my team, the people I’ve worked with on various projects, and my family for their endless support. It’s not always an easy industry to be in, but having a support system and collaborators who push you creatively makes all the difference.

Website: https://www.hugowill.com

Instagram: @Hugo_willl

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HugoWill

Image Credits
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