Bogdan Georgescu's path to becoming a distinguished cinematographer and founder of Rebel Noise Films is a testament to unwavering dedication and adaptability. Beginning with a bachelor's degree in Cinematography, Photography, and Media from Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Bogdan immersed himself in the film industry by proactively seeking opportunities with local production companies. His hands-on approach, often involving unpaid roles, allowed him to gain invaluable experience and establish a network within the community. 

Today, as the driving force behind Rebel Noise Films, Bogdan continues to craft compelling visual narratives, drawing inspiration from cinema verité techniques and emphasizing the importance of pre-production planning. His journey underscores the significance of perseverance, continuous learning, and the power of networking in the ever-evolving world of filmmaking.​

How did you get into the industry?

In 2018 I started my bachelor degree on cinematography at the Faculty of Theatre and Film. From my second semester, I knocked on doors at some local production companies and did a lot of unpaid work as a production assistant on several commercials, or short films, in order to learn things and to be part of that community.

Where are you based now and who do you work for?

Now I live in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. I founded a small production company here, Rebel Noise Films. 

If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?

I can't really think of that. I mean, in my opinion, if you want to do something you will fight for that whatever it takes. And that's what I did and still do, constantly. Film industry is a vast thing, and you have to find your way with small steps, you can't really skip steps, it's all about progression, networking and enjoying the processes.

Can you explain your creative process? What makes it unique?

It really depends on the project that I am working on. Every story will have a different approach, maybe a different world-view. So my first step will be doing some research based on the client needs or director needs. Getting to know the way they think is important.

For example, for this commerical that we did for a local pastry/sweet shop, I started by watching other people work, then I did a moodboard from the references that I liked. Then we went on location scouting in order to do the storyboard. As a cinematographer, I find the pre-production extremely important. If you know what you want to achieve, with as much details as you can, then it will be easy to put that in practice.

How would you describe your style?

I love the cine-verite style. As we are an indie studio, I always try to keep things at the minimum waste of energy. I prefer working with natural light, I prefer to adapt based on the surroundings. I know that some think of this as a limit, but I think that limits makes us aware of what we can and what we can't do, so they are a helpful guide in the process. I consider that my style/trait is adaptability/versatilty.

Which individuals do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?

I was always fascinated by the work of the great cinematographer Robby Muller. 

What tips would you give to aspiring creatives looking for work?

As mentioned early, I consider that if you really want to do something, you will do it no matter what it takes. There's no a good or bad approach on that. Depending on the level of knowledge, start by collaborating with your local studios, even if they can't pay you from the first time.

Focus on learning and expanding your abilities. Nobody will come and say "hey I like you very much, I am giving you this project" if you don't work. Don't be lazy, step out of your comfort zone and make connections, because after all, networking is the most important aspect of getting to be a well-known professional.

What’s your secret to staying inspired and motivated?

Watching other filmmakers work. I like Vimeo platform a lot, it is s great source of inspiration for independent filmmakers. 

What’s the work achievement you’re most proud of?

Besides commercials, this year I worked on 5 short documentaries that are now in the festival circuit. 

Any websites, books or resources you would recommend?

VoD platforms: Vimeo, Nowness, Mubi - creative stuff

Youtube - for behind the scenes, how to use things, how it's done.

Books: Filmmaker's Eye(Gustavo Mercado)

Story(Robert McKee)

Introduction to Documentary(Bill Nichols)

Other websites: Artstation - great for moodboards, use of colours and compositions

Social media: instagram, linkedin - make connections, note, ask, explore