While Matthieu Mantovani is widely recognized for his directing work in commercials and his groundbreaking projects with artificial intelligence, the very core of his visual style was forged in the world of photography.

His journey into professional filmmaking didn't begin on a film set but as an assistant to of photo. This period was a crucial, formative experience, allowed Mantovani to develop a sharp eye for composition, light, and narrative. He learned how to sculpt a scene with light and shadow and to tell a compelling story within a single frame—a fundamental skill in both photography and film.

Though he didn't pursue a public career as a photographer, the influence of this time is evident in every project he directs.

 

His cinematic work is characterized by the principles he learned early on, showcasing:

• Meticulous Composition: Each shot in his films, from a major commercial to a short film, is framed with the precision of a photograph. There's a deliberate, thoughtful quality to his shot choices that elevates them beyond simple motion.

• Narrative Through Imagery: Mantovani possesses a unique ability to use a single, carefully crafted image to convey emotion or move the story forward, a direct result of his photographic background.

• Command of Light: The lighting in his films often has a dramatic, pictorial quality, reflecting a deep understanding of how light and shadow can be used to create mood and atmosphere.

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In essence, photography serves as the silent but powerful cornerstone of his career. The skills he acquired as a photographer didn't just influence his directing; they became the very essence of his signature visual style, making his work as a director both dynamic and visually profound.