Michael Day
Freelance Cinematographer / Writer / Producer / 2nd AC
Cyprian Films New York
Milestones
My road in life has taken me all over.
I went straight into the Marine Corps following high school.
I was part of the initial invasion of Iraq; as a result, I've dealt with both a TBI and PTSD.
An important moment of necessitated clarity was when I received my DD214 discharge paperwork.
Getting that physical piece of paper, it really hit me: I had to figure out what was next, quickly.
I hit rock bottom and had to confront my PTSD and alcohol issues.
I decided to go back to school and get my bachelor's and master's degrees.
Completing both of my degrees gave me enough motivation and inspiration to pursue my film career.
Took a little from each defining moment and compiled the moments to create the momentum to move on.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Rampart High School
Rampart High School
Career
Freelance Cinematographer / Writer / Producer / 2nd AC
I turn thoughts in the arena of ideas into aesthetically pleasing products.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Film
Writing
Communicating / Sharing Stories
Day to Day
I usually get up before the sun rises, before the rest of New York is awake. On a good day, I'll get to set and both the crew and the gear will be ready for the day to begin. I especially love the days when I'm feeling good about the material I'm working on, which usually means that I feel like it has some sort of socially redeeming value. When you're working on a project like that, everyone on the crew is onboard and excited to create art and to communicate amazing stories. It's a great energy.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
You can't just want to "go into film"; you have to know what you want to do within the industry. Do your research and see what each department does, and then see where you might be able to best plug in your interests and talents. Don't worry too much about going to film school. Everything I learned, I learned through online resources like Vimeo, Youtube and nofilmschool.com...and I'm working in the industry! I'd say supplement your education with some classes, but do your own work and research.
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"You'll never make it in that industry."
