Small Talk with Director Ben Carter
Welcome to CINQ's 'Small Talk', an interview series spotlighting directors, DOPs, and other talented crew. In this interview, we hear from director Ben Carter on filmmaking passion, automotive campaigns, and why self-awareness is key.
Q> What came first, photography or directing?
Ben> Photography.
Q> Where does your passion for filmmaking come from?
Ben> It comes from the joy I get seeing a simple idea grow into a film. Whether it’s commercial, documentary or narrative, I love watching the process evolve all the way through post production and then sitting back and enjoying what we’ve made.
Q> You are a director, producer, screenwriter, editor, director of photography, post-production colorist, and sound designer. Why do you need a crew around?
Ben> Because there are so many talented people that do all of those jobs better than I can. I’d rather focus on my role and let my brilliant collaborators bring their touch to a project. I am only one piece of the team.
Q> What do you consider quality time well spent?
Ben> Somewhere on a beach with my wife making tough decisions like if we should go for a swim or walk to the bar to grab a beer.
Q> You’ve mentioned that you’re average at cooking and a below-average cyclist. Are you good at self-reflection then?
Ben> Self awareness is key. If I can’t enjoy things I’m not great at I would have many hobbies.
Q> How much of a car fan are you? Are you just passively interested in what’s nice, or do you know every part of each engine?
Ben> I’m pretty deep into cars. I was obsessed with European exotics as a child and then took automotive mechanic classes in high school. My first car was a “Frankenstein” Jeep Wrangler that I was constantly breaking, fixing and tweaking.
Q> Do you have any fun behind-the-scenes stories you’d like to share?
Ben> My first ever shoot in an arm car was at Daytona on the 2.5 mile super-speedway shooting at speeds well over 90mph through the banked corners. I don’t think I’ve ever gripped a handle in a car that tight for six straight hours in my life. Talk about getting thrown into the deep end.
Q> If you could choose a deceased star to make a film about, who would it be and why?
Ben> Dale Earnhardt.
Q> And a present-day star?
Ben> David Letterman.
Q> What are you working on now?
Ben> I’m about to start prep on a big motorsports project that will shoot this fall.
