Though I show you proof that I can capture beautiful images; I also want to let you into what I deem is the most important part of my art: my ability to politicize my work to create powerful visual stories that challenge thoughts, connect people, and spark conversation.
Since entering the workforce, I concluded that my dream job is not at a desk; it is one that allows me to collaborate with others in various settings. My dream job is a lifetime journey of telling visual stories that raise conversations about prominent global issues in a creative way. In its simplest terms: I want to capture life in its purest form.
In the winter of 2017, I started my visual arts career at CAN TV, a local nonprofit public access television network, I taught local Chicagoans how to effectively communicate their stories and how to use the tools in our studio to effectively broadcast their mission across our network and other social platforms. After 2 years at CAN TV I had mastered every possible task and my managers became complacent with the current community outreach efforts; challenges came to a halt for me. I wanted to gain more technical skills and use them in a tactical way to tell stories and reach people. I complained about my job, so I made an exit plan and moved on to get my Masters in cinematography.
Cinematography
I have been mastering the field of cinematography for the past 5 years. Visual lines, shadows, and red lighting are my muses. I use my color correction skills to take any visual to another level of emotion.
Editing
Professionally use Premiere Pro and Davinci Resolve to convey powerful stories. I have edited short documentaries, government videos, and narrative shorts. When editing, I become the audience and let the videos guide the story's direction.
TV
I worked at CAN TV for 2 years hosting and directing live and recorded TV shows. Through this experience I was able to interview local leaders and politicians about various issues affecting Chicago.
Directing
Two main reasons I chose to work in the film industry are its emphasis on collaboration and visually conveying emotions. From cinematography to an actor's performance. As a director, I have been able to use my empathy and creativity to create compelling visual art in collaboration with other talented artists.
Cinematography
Gaffer
Editing
On-air Interviews
Directing
Master of Science
DePaul University '21
Film and Television Concentration in Cinematography
Lighting BIPOC Researcher: Conducted research on finding best techniques to properly light darker skin tones. Find footage of our tests here
Bachelor of Arts
Denison University '17
Communication, Sociology, and Anthropology
Estrella Vargas
FILMMAKER
A professional multimedia storyteller passionate about visually telling the stories of humanity
Since 2019, I have been absorbing every bit of knowledge of cinematography. I worked on over 13+ short films, 4 major network TV shows, 2 feature films, and 6 documentary films. I created an experimental short that was selected and screened at the 2020 Spirit of Chicago festival hosted by Chicago Filmmakers organization. During graduate school. I developed a first of its kind research on lighting subjects with darker skin tones; this stemmed from seeing a lack of diversity within the lighting curriculum at DePaul. My research provided many opportunities for me, but most importantly it sparked important conversations that have generated change within academia. I accomplished all of this during the pandemic; I complained about the lack of opportunities I was receiving during my last year in grad school; however, I did not remain complacent and created my own opportunities.
My mother used to tell me “Calladita te ves mas bonita (you look prettier when you’re quiet);” at a young age, I noticed how much women were policed, and instead of challenging such ideals we accepted them, believed them, and perpetuated them. But I realized I had a political heart. Instead of yearning to be beautiful, I made it a goal to never stay silent and use my voice to expose the ugliness of racism, sexism, classism, and xenophobia. It got me in trouble and made me undesirable, but the feeling of never conforming became addicting.
If you’re looking for a cinematographer, AC, or gaffer who is skilled and invested in taking your story to the next level, please feel free to get in contact with me.