Meet Romas Usakovas | Cinematographer

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

Hi Romas, please tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey into the world of visual storytelling began in my hometown, where I developed an early fascination with films and the filmmaking process. I attended after-school lessons and workshops at Skalvija Film Academy, where my friends and I learned the basics of filmmaking. My interest in cinematography grew, and I soon realized that I should become a professional photographer. An outstanding photography portfolio was essential for gaining acceptance into VGIK, the most prestigious film school in Moscow.

Throughout my journey as a cinematographer, photography has always been a significant part of my life. Composition, framing, lighting choices, and techniques for capturing the right moment have all been adapted into my work with moving images. As time passed and I took on various projects, street and landscape photography remained a form of self-expression. I would take pictures during my free time or while traveling. In recent years, my interest has expanded to people and portrait photography, capturing images of my friends and colleagues and assisting them with their personal projects.

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?
My heartfelt thanks to everyone I have met throughout my creative journey. No matter how little our interaction was, they have all taught me something meaningful and have all made me a better person as a result. Certainly, I must give special thanks to my family and friends who have stood the test of time and supported and encouraged me the most throughout my entire career.

Other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
A creative career takes dedication and hard work, just as it does in all other fields. Trusting my gut has been my go-to strategy when faced with important creative decisions at work, sometimes even when I haven’t had time to think them through. In many cases, my inner feeling would not disappoint me. I have made mistakes, like everyone else, but the only way I can move forward is by staying true to my instincts, principles of work, and being kind and respectful to those around me.

Website: https://www.romasus.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romasus/

Image Credits
Grazvydas Lukinavicius: Main Photo