'Stranger Things' at Port Elizabeth Film School

The campus has been abuzz this term, when staff and students had the privilege of listening to a talk by Tim Ives, cinematographer of a number of popular US films and television shows, including Stranger Things, House of Cards, Mr Robot, and many more to be listed below. Ives discussed his rise to success in the film and television industries, and his approach to taking on new projects. For Ives, it is of utmost importance to bring a fresh eye to every new project he takes on, ensuring that his creative exploration of the medium does not stagnate, and so that he is able to generate an expansive repertoire not limited by centralized visual tropes. One thing that sets Ives apart is his consistent success in effectively (and affectively) capturing the atmospheres and themes of every project he touches.

His expertise, experience and advice engaged students throughout the talk and they were reminded to remain humble and remain grateful for the small victories one experiences in the early phases of a career in the film or television industries. When asked about some of his most memorable experiences, Ives made the point to discuss his smaller, early victories as well as his big breaks. For him, these small victories are equally relevant to his successes, and perhaps even more deserving of reverence.

"It was awesome being able to sit down with someone whose cinematic vision has given form to some of many of today's most awe-inspiring productions - such as Mr Robot and Stranger Things. Being able to pick Tim's brain regarding both his creative choices and technical implementations was really cool. Getting the sort of insights and tips we did, straight from the DOP of some of modern TV's most good-looking visuals, is really something that I'll hold on to for inspiration." Says Tom Radford, a third year Cinematography student, about his experience of the talk.

AFDA Port Elizabeth thanks Tim Ives for taking the time to share his wisdom and experience with our student body. AFDA strives to provide students with an extensive theoretical and practical education, to equip them for all that lies ahead in the vast industry that is entertainment media, and to expose students to industry professionals who inspire and educate by means of real success stories and experiences that highlight the nuances of the ever growing and changing industries.

Tim Ives has been nominated for two Emmy Awards and has worked on a number of commercials for notable companies including Chevy, Samsung, Heineken, and ESPN. As well as a number of music videos in collaboration with popular musicians including Bob Dylan, Patti Smith, and Pink. He has worked on the following television and film productions to date:

Television
Fosse/Verdon - FX
Deadly Class - Sony
Stranger Things - Netflix
Girls - HBO
House of Cards - Netflix
Mr. Robot - USA
Power of Starz - HBO
How to Make It in America - HBO
Treme - HBO
Manifest - NBC
Blue Bloods - CBS
Kitchen Confidential - FOX
Film
Dinner Rush
Heavy Petting
Good Night Valentino