Simon Chaudoir
When the Camera Stops Rolling
Simon Chaudoir is a highly accomplished director of photography based in London. He has a thirty-year career, which began with his studies in Fine Art Film and Video at St. Martins in the late 80s. His aesthetic foundations were established by London's inspiring film scene of that time. Throughout his career, he has worked on a range of projects, from music videos to commercial cinematography for well-known brands, consistently pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Chaudoir's films are known for their masterful storytelling and striking visuals. He approaches filming with a combination of the artist's emotional intensity and the scientist's precision. In his own words, "I'm really interested in lighting. I sit in the cinema and wonder where the lamps on set were placed. I know it sounds wanky, but I like it when the light tells a story." He is often referred as an alchemist of light, as his work is considered visual gems . His extensive experience in film gives his photography a unique depth.
The monochrome series featured in this article was shot during breaks in filming, offering a glimpse into the world behind the camera, a world that is clearly full of fun and play. The compositions are exquisite, with gear and crew blending in playful ways, creating a cinematic universe reminiscent of Rube Goldberg.