I love telling unique, compelling stories — Ola Cardoso

Cinematographer, Ola Cardoso, tells NAOMI CHIMA about his career and other issues

W hat sparked your interest in cinematography, and how did you get started in the industry?

My interest in cinematography was kindled by my childhood fascination with TV—I was always glued to it. My journey into the industry is quite a tale, starting from my days as a musician, moving through music production and sound engineering. The real turning point came when I began working with Monster Music as their sound producer and engineer. That experience ignited my passion for visual storytelling and set me on the path to cinematography.

How did you transition from directing music videos to filmmaking?

Transitioning from directing music videos to filmmaking was driven by my passion to positively change the perception of Nollywood. I have always believed in the immense potential of our industry and felt it was crucial to start somewhere, no matter how big the task. Thanks to God, we are making strides and pushing forward to elevate Nollywood to new heights.

What drew you to working on projects such as ‘God Calling’, ‘Banana Island Ghost’, and ‘Breath of Life’?

What drew me to those projects was the opportunity to tell unique and compelling stories that resonate on a deep level. Each project offered a chance to explore different themes and perspectives, which I believe is crucial for the growth of Nollywood. I am passionate about creating work that challenges conventions and pushes the boundaries of our industry. It is all part of the journey to elevate our storytelling and make meaningful impact.

What was the most challenging scene to shoot in ‘Breath of Life’, and how did you approach it?

The most challenging scenes in the movie were the ‘Baby Fire’ sequences. However, the actors came incredibly prepared and gave their all, which made my job a lot easier. Also, the director, BB Sasore, and I had meticulously planned most of the scenes during pre-production. This thorough preparation helped us navigate the complexities of those intense moments and ensure everything went smoothly.

What inspired you to establish Film Bank Production, and what services does the company offer?

I established the company out of a desire to create a platform that could nurture and showcase unique, high-quality content. My inspiration came from seeing the potential for growth and innovation in Nollywood and wanting to contribute to its evolution. It offers a range of services, including film production and project development. Our goal is to support filmmakers at every stage, from conceptualising ideas to bringing them to life and getting them in front of audiences. We are committed to elevating storytelling and helping push the boundaries of what’s possible in our industry.

How do you balance your creative direction with business managementyou’re your personal life?

Balance comes down to knowing my strengths and where my focus needs to be. I believe in dedicating my full attention to one thing at a time—whether it’s creative direction or personal life. When I’m in my creative zone, I stay fully immersed, but I have structured things so that I don’t have to juggle business management at the same time.

I have got a couple of people who handle the business side for me, which allows me to concentrate on my creative vision without distractions. This delegation frees up my mental energy and gives me space to recharge and spend quality time with loved ones when I’m not working. It is about setting clear boundaries and trusting others to do what they’re good at, so I can focus on what I’m passionate about.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs in the film industry?

My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the film industry is simple— if you truly want to be great, you have to understand that there are no shortcuts. The film industry requires relentless hard work, and you need to be prepared to dedicate yourself day and night to achieve something big.

The process is straightforward but demanding—shoot, edit, go again, and repeat that cycle over and again. Each time you go through the process, you get sharper and more refined. There will be failures, but they are part of the learning curve.

Stay focused on your craft, avoid distractions, and trust that consistency will lead to mastery. Surround yourself with a team that can support you on the business side, so you can keep your full attention on perfecting your art.

How did you feel when ‘Breath of Life’ won the Best Movie award at the last AMVCA?

It was an unforgettable experience. I was actually in Abuja filming another project while the award night was happening, but even then, I knew we had something truly special. Every step of the process— from conceptualising to shooting and editing— was intense, yet incredibly rewarding. What the team and I created felt like a masterpiece in every frame. I had a strong sense that the award was headed our way, especially when I looked at the other films in the category. We had poured everything into the project, and the recognition was a testament to our relentless efforts. Winning was just the final touch to an already fulfilling journey.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your craft?

I stay motivated and focused on my craft by maintaining a solid routine that keeps me grounded. Being an introvert, I am mostly at home, which gives me the space I need to recharge and think deeply about my work. My mornings are dedicated to exercise, reading, and studying, mostly online. This routine sets a productive tone for the day and keeps my mind sharp.

I also love reading. It is one of the main ways I stay inspired and continuously learn new things. Whether it’s diving into a book or studying different techniques, I believe that constant growth fuels creativity. By sticking to a routine that balances both mental and physical activities, I ensure I am always in the right headspace to push my work forward.

Staying focused comes naturally when one is passionate, but I also remind myself of the bigger picture. The process is repetitive, but it’s that cycle that drives excellence. It is about consistently showing up, improving bit by bit, and trusting that the dedication will pay off in the long run.

Who or what inspires your creative vision, and how do you stay updated with industry trends?

I draw a lot of my inspiration from TV and everyday life. I have always been in love with the way stories are told on screen; that is what keeps my creativity alive. From dramas to documentaries, I find bits of inspiration in how different people and cultures are represented, how emotions are portrayed, and how visuals can evoke something powerful.

In terms of staying updated with industry trends, I believe it’s important to constantly watch what’s out there—new films, series, emerging filmmakers, and even online content. I also keep an eye on what’s happening globally through online studies and reading about the latest in filmmaking. But, in the end, it’s not about following trends too closely; it’s about staying true to one’s creative vision while knowing the pulse of the industry.

How do you manage stress and unwind?

I manage stress by incorporating simple yet effective routines into my life. When I feel the pressure building, I usually take a walk, which helps clear my mind and offers a break from the creative intensity. Reading is also a significant part of how I unwind—it not only relaxes me but also feeds my creativity and keeps me grounded.

Occasionally, when I need a different kind of escape, I watch a movie or go out with my family.

 What’s next for you?

I am excited to share that my directorial debut film titled, Suky, is on the horizon. It is a project I am incredibly proud of, and I can’t wait for the world to see it.

As for what’s next, I am already diving into new projects and collaborations. I am always looking for fresh, innovative ideas and talented individuals to work with.