Hobbies and interests
Writing
Photography and Photo Editing
Video Editing and Production
Graphic Design
Reading
Academic
Art
Book Club
Biography
I read books multiple times per month
Tariq Stone
1,295
Bold Points1x
Nominee1x
Finalist1x
WinnerTariq Stone
1,295
Bold Points1x
Nominee1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
Growing up as a homeschooled kid raised by TV, my father, a photographer, sparked my fascination with photography and cinematography. The notion that I could create something as resonant as the TV shows that shaped my childhood excited me and fueled my desire to create and share stories. I tell stories visually through surreal colored lighting, textured shadows, and unconventional camera rigs. Whether it’s letting someone drive a car over my camera or strapping it on a skateboard, the closer my camera is to breaking, the better the shot.
These unconventional setups enable me to explore narratives with an emphasis on emotions and impact, rather than realism and standard practices, and bring a sense of awe and wonder by offering visuals we can’t see through our own eyes and diving into the characters’ inner headspaces. My goal is to imbue each frame with meaning by aligning the camera and lighting with the emotion of each story.
Education
California College of the Arts
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
Minors:
- Architectural History, Criticism, and Conservation
Inglewood High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
Career
Dream career field:
Motion Pictures and Film
Dream career goals:
Director, DP, Editor
Future Interests
Politics
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Entrepreneurship
Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship
Growing up as a homeschooled kid, I was largely raised by TV, absorbing the stories and visuals that captivated my young mind. My father, a photographer, played a pivotal role in shaping my passion for photography and cinematography. The idea that I could create something as impactful as the TV shows that defined my childhood excited me and ignited my desire to tell stories through a visual medium. My father’s influence not only introduced me to the technical aspects of photography but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of imagery.
As a child, I spent countless hours experimenting with digital art, particularly through creating Minecraft scenes. Without realizing it, I was learning the fundamentals of composition, color theory, and scene-setting. These early experiences laid the groundwork for my artistic journey. During the pandemic, I took a significant step forward by teaching myself Adobe Premiere and After Effects. This period marked the true beginning of my filmmaking journey, coinciding with the time I moved in with my father, whose career in photography provided me with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Currently, as a third-year student at California College of the Arts, I have had the opportunity to work on student films, official productions, and projects for my professors. These experiences have allowed me to hone my skills and develop a unique style. I specialize in using surreal colored lighting, textured shadows, and unconventional camera rigs to tell stories. Whether it's placing a camera in precarious positions or using innovative setups, I strive to capture shots that evoke strong emotions and offer perspectives beyond ordinary human vision.
My work explores the interplay between identity and authenticity, aiming to capture the most genuine version of each subject. Every frame I create is meticulously designed to align with the emotions of the story, giving each image its own distinct voice. This approach stems from my belief that true artistry lies in presenting the nuances of individuality and the human experience.
Beyond the classroom, I actively engage with my peers and foster a collaborative environment. My involvement with my college’s marketing team has taught me the value of working collectively towards a common goal. This collaborative spirit is something I plan to carry forward into my professional career.
One of my long-term aspirations is to work with an art-house studio like A24. I am particularly drawn to their emphasis on unique and boundary-pushing narratives. My current project, a senior thesis, reflects my interest in exploring the human condition through science fiction. The story revolves around a young man grappling with trauma and his journey through a seemingly perfect simulation. This project, inspired by shows like "Black Mirror" and films by Christopher Nolan, embodies my fascination with blending emotional depth with speculative concepts.
In conclusion, my father’s influence has been instrumental in shaping my artistic vision. As I move forward, I aim to use my skills to innovate and push the boundaries of visual storytelling. My unique approach to cinematography, focusing on emotional resonance and authenticity, sets me apart. By continuing to explore and refine my craft, I aspire to create compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact on audiences.