Behind the Lens of "The Grande Frolic": A Cinematographer's Journey Through Stereotypes and Storms
- Dominic Easter
- Sep 7, 2025
- 4 min read
About the Author, Dominic Easter
Dominic is an award-winning cinematographer and Director of Photography whose style has been praised for its clever & tasteful approach. His work has a seductively cinematic feel, speaking to his ability to create classically beautiful visuals with a contemporary aesthetic.
Dominic has lensed both commercial and narrative projects for global brands such as HBO MAX, ESPN, Bacardi, NFL Films, Will Smith, Adidas, Fuse Tv, Ford Motor Company, Verizon, Afropunk, and The Miami Marlins, to name a few. Easter's current project, 'Don't Let It In,' is a feature horror film that
was picked up by Canvas Films as a short and will be distributed on all major streaming platforms by Mar Vista Entertainment in 2025. Born and raised in Maryland, Dominic moved to South Florida for film school. He worked his way through the film ranks, from camera house to cam op, to where he is today, a sought after Director of Photography whose integrity and capacity for creating powerful visuals has garnered him a reputation of being a skillful and knowledgeable cinematographer.
As a cinematographer, every project presents its own set of challenges and rewards. My recent experience filming the short film "The Grande Frolic" with director Joshua Jean-Baptiste was no different. This film delves into the ways African American men are breaking stereotypes, shot at the stunning Fairchild Botanical Garden in Miami. Armed with the Arri Alexa Mini, I was eager to bring Joshua's vision to life. Little did we know that our journey would be marked by both creative triumphs and unforeseen challenges.
The Vision Behind "The Grande Frolic"
Joshua and I share a passion for storytelling, especially when it comes to representing our community. The film begins in a dense, jungle-like wilderness where a group of African American men initially appear as adversaries. As the story unfolds, they transform into friends, underscoring themes of connection and understanding. This narrative struck a chord with Oolite Arts, who provided crucial funding. For context, 90% of independent films face funding challenges, making Oolite's support invaluable for us.
A Beautiful Day Turns Stormy
We began shooting in January, and the Florida weather was beautiful that morning. The sun was shining, and the vibrant greenery provided a stunning backdrop. However, as the day wore on, disaster struck. A sudden downpour began, lasting for about 80% of our shoot. This dramatic shift tested our skills and adaptability.
The relentless rain forced us into a state of urgency. We made quick decisions, such as cutting a scene and speeding through our shooting schedule. By switching to zoom lenses, we maintained flexibility and relied more on natural light than artificial sources. This shift not only kept us moving but also infused the footage with a raw, energetic vibe, enhancing the film's emotional depth. Statistics show that natural lighting can increase a film's visual appeal, and I felt we achieved this effect despite the weather.
A Connection on Set
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, my bond with Joshua on set was profoundly rewarding. As two African American filmmakers, we understood the significance of authenticity in storytelling. Our shared experiences fostered trust, enabling open communication—even when we disagreed. This camaraderie was vital as we navigated both the highs and lows of the shoot. We realized that connection matters not only in our story but also in our collaboration.
The Aftermath of the Storm
After filming wrapped, both Joshua and I felt a mix of disappointment and determination due to the weather chaos. The rain had hindered our ability to capture the footage we envisioned, leading to an emotional rollercoaster as we transitioned to post-production.
With Oolite on a tight indie budget, I saw the need to step in and edit the project myself. Being the cinematographer and intimately familiar with the footage meant I could save precious time in the editing room. I could ensure we still delivered a compelling narrative, even after facing setbacks.
Embracing the Editing Process
As I dove into the editing process, I was reminded of the importance of being adaptable in filmmaking. The rain had changed our shooting schedule, yet it opened up paths for new creativity. I experimented with the natural light captured during the rain to create a unique visual style that resonated with the film's themes.
Using the Arri Alexa Mini and Zeiss Super Speed Primes enabled stunning image quality, even under challenging conditions. This combination, paired with my understanding of the story, allowed me to craft a final product that I believe honors Joshua's vision.
Looking Ahead
As "The Grande Frolic" progresses, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. This film represents not only a personal journey for both Joshua and me but also embodies the resilience of African American men breaking stereotypes.
Shooting in the Fairchild Botanical Garden, in spite of the rain, taught me profound lessons about perseverance and creativity. I take pride in being part of a project that highlights friendship and understanding. I eagerly await the moment audiences can experience the final product.
Reflections on the Experience
Filming "The Grande Frolic" was a journey replete with challenges and triumphs. From the beautiful landscapes of Miami to the rain that tested our resolve, each moment meaningfully contributed to the film's narrative. As a cinematographer, I am grateful for the chance to collaborate with Joshua Jean-Baptiste and to share a story that resonates with our community.
As we continue along the path of independent filmmaking, I am reminded of the power of collaboration and staying true to our vision. I look forward to sharing "The Grande Frolic" with the world, and I hope it inspires others to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the beauty of friendship.
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