2024.7.25
1. Could you tell us more about yourself? (Career/Major/Hometown/Hobbies...)
My name is Blake Cortes, and I'm a Director/DP originally from Brooklyn, NY, now based in Tampa, FL. I've been in the film industry for over a decade, shuttling between New York and Florida before settling primarily in the Tampa Bay area. I don't have many hobbies, but I enjoy spending time with my kids, photography, and watching movies.
2. What is your role in the documentary film "ARTE ES VIDA (Art is Life)"? What inspired you to choose this topic?
In "ARTE ES VIDA," I serve as the producer, director, and DP. The inspiration for this project came while I was developing a docuseries called "ARTDOCS TV," which focuses on artists in central Florida. During a visit to Creative Pinellas, I discovered the artist collective "Keepers of Heritage," which became the subject of the film. Initially planning to feature a few artists for my series, I was struck by the collective's origin story, particularly as someone of Puerto Rican descent myself. Their individual and collective struggles resonated deeply with me, and I felt compelled to share their inspiring story with a broader audience.
3. In what situations or conditions did you use our Vespid prime lenses?
We used the Vespid Primes for all the interviews and to capture the artists in their natural environments, including their studios.
4. We noticed that you used both Pictor zoom and Vespid primes in this project. How well do these two lenses complement each other? Which series do you prefer?
Both lens series complemented each other perfectly. If I had to choose, I would prefer the primes for their ability to capture more light onto the sensor.
5. What factors led you to choose Vespids as the main interview lenses for this project? How did you feel when shooting with the DZOFILM Vespid Cine Prime Lenses (color rendition, resolution, natural characteristics, etc.)?
A few years ago, while in the market for new lenses, I came across the Vespids. After reading positive reviews, I decided to purchase the 35mm. Many lenses I knew of were too clean and sharp for my taste, but the Vespid primes offered a beautiful balance. They provided the right amount of sharpness and character without being overly clinical, which was perfect for capturing the essence of the artists in "ARTE ES VIDA."
6. Have the Vespid lenses helped you overcome any challenges during filming? Can you share an example?
I've always aimed to achieve a cinematic look with my digital camera, and the Vespids helped me achieve that desired film-like quality. Their slight softness and distinctive character contributed significantly to the visual style of the documentary.
7. Which focal length in the Vespid set is your favorite to use? Why?
For this project, filming with an s35 sensor, I found the 25mm to be ideal. It allowed me to capture intimate shots that made viewers feel as though they were present in the room with the subjects.
8. Based on your on-set experience, what innovative features would you like to see in DZOFILM's future products?
Thinking back, I would have suggested making the lenses larger to cover larger sensors while maintaining their speed and beautiful character. However, it seems DZOFILM has already addressed this with the ARLES Primes, which is fantastic.
Website:16sixstudios.com