EP 100: About Face with Director/Cinematographer Othello Banaci

In this episode of Visual Intonation, we sit down with Othello Banaci, a Liberian-American director, cinematographer, and photographer whose creative journey is as unpredictable and inspiring as his work. Based in Washington, D.C., Othello has carved out a name for himself in the worlds of portrait photography, documentary filmmaking, and commercial cinematography. From his early days as a basketball hopeful to becoming a sought-after visual artist, Othello’s story is one of persistence, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of mastery. 

Othello’s artistic evolution was far from conventional. Raised in Maryland, he initially pursued a career in basketball, earning a spot as a preferred walk-on at Ball State University. But when his dreams of playing professionally were dashed after being cut from the team, Othello faced the first of many failures that would ultimately shape his future. Instead of giving up, he leaned into his curiosity, constantly asking, "What if I could do this?" His journey led him from the basketball court to the fashion world in New York, where he first began exploring photography. A love for the lens quickly blossomed, and he found himself shooting weddings, transitioning into commercial work, and eventually, filmmaking. 

Through all of this, Othello learned an invaluable lesson: growth comes from constant work and improvement, and failure is not a setback, but a refinement of your craft. From 2007 to 2010, when he had no portfolio and limited direction, he spent countless hours photographing the simplest subject—his ceiling fan—just to practice and refine his skills. That period of self-doubt and exploration laid the foundation for everything that would follow. 

Othello’s breakthrough came when he began working with high-profile figures like Malibu Mitch, Ryan Leslie, and Uzi Vert. His work appeared in The Atlantic, and he quickly gained recognition for his ability to capture striking, intimate portraits and cinematic visuals that tell a story. One of his standout projects, 38 at the Garden, showcased his remarkable talent for cinematography, earning him wider acclaim in the industry. 

Beyond the camera, Othello is one of the founders of Submininal Production, a company dedicated to producing high-quality visual content that pushes boundaries and tells compelling stories. Through his work, Othello proves that the journey is just as important as the destination. His dedication to evolving as an artist and his ability to stay true to his creative vision in the face of adversity have made him a voice to watch in the world of visual storytelling. 

In this candid conversation, we dive into the lessons Othello has learned along the way—how failure shaped his work, why curiosity is a powerful tool for growth, and how his diverse career experiences continue to influence his artistry today. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, filmmaker, or simply someone who appreciates great storytelling, Othello’s journey will inspire you to embrace your own creative path with resilience and purpose. 

Othello Banaci's Website: https://www.othellobanaci.com/

Othello Banaci's Socials: https://set.page/othellobanaci/