James Laxton, cinematographer of *Moonlight*, *If Beale Street Could Talk*, and *Mufasa: The Lion King*, discusses his journey into cinematography, influenced by his costume designer mother and early experiences making skate videos. He recounts film school at Florida State University, where hands-on experience and collaboration with Barry Jenkins shaped his visual language, drawing inspiration from filmmakers like Wong Kar Wai and Claire Denis. Laxton details the making of *Medicine for Melancholy* on a small budget, the evolution of his collaborative process with Jenkins, and the balance between technical precision and intuitive filmmaking. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of working on diverse projects, from independent cinema to high-end animation, emphasizing the importance of instinct, believability, and connecting with actors.
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