Step into the fascinating world of Giovanni Granada of Metro Studio. From building his own box-camera as a kid to founding Colombia's first Laboratory and Production Studio dedicated entirely to Visual Engineering, Giovanni's dedication to his craft has never waivered. Find out how he and his team merge art and science to create striking and unforgettable visuals.

When did you first realize the potential of art and science working together to create striking visuals?

Well, it all started when I was a curious 11-year-old. I got into optics, chemistry, and the basics of B&W photography, and soon enough, I crafted my first box-camera (Later I built 3 more). That's the moment it clicked for me – the magic that happens when you merge art and science to create visuals that go beyond the ordinary. To celebrate my beginnings in 2012 I directed and shot a multi-award winning Short Film, “The Invention”, that celebrates exactly that; art, science and love.

What is the driving force behind your artistic and technological ambition?

At the core of everything is this burning desire to bring imagination to life through perfect images. I thrive on the challenge of marrying deep technical know-how with the art of cinematography. It's the excitement of pushing the boundaries between science and art that keeps me going, ensuring our visuals are not just technically advanced but also emotionally resonant.

‍Tell us about the cutting-edge technologies and techniques you use in your work.

Here at Metro Studio, we're all about pushing boundaries. We throw in everything from mechatronics, robotics, and pneumatics to programming. Mix that up with visual sciences like Cinematography and special effects, and you've got our winning formula. Our secret sauce includes custom-designed robotic systems, mechanisms, and the powerhouse BOLT CINEBOT, capturing movements at an astonishing thousand frames per second. In 2024 we will also integrate Virtual Production to our palette.

"Our secret sauce includes custom-designed robotic systems, mechanisms, and the powerhouse BOLT CINEBOT."

How do you balance fulfilling a client’s creative vision with exercising artistic freedom?

It's a bit like a dance. Communication is key. Understanding the client's objectives, values and vision is where it all begins. Then comes the collaboration, where I present creative solutions aligned with their goals but sprinkled with my artistic touch. It's about finding that sweet spot where the client is happy, and we get to infuse our artistic flair, creating something that stands out and surpasses expectations.

If you could advise photographers at the start of their career against one thing, what would it be?

Don't fall into the trap of complacency. It's a fast-changing field, and settling for the status quo won't cut it. Keep learning, push your creative boundaries, and stay on top of tech advancements. Complacency blocks growth, and in photography, a relentless pursuit of improvement is your ticket to long-lasting success.

In terms of importance, where does innovation rank in your creative process?

Innovation is the heartbeat of what we do at Metro Studio. It's not just a box to tick; it's at the core of our identity. Constantly pushing boundaries, researching, and developing new methods and gear is what keeps us at the forefront. Innovation isn't just about staying ahead; it's about making sure our visuals remain fresh, captivating, and set the industry standard.

‍What role, if any, does spontaneity play in your creative process?

‍Spontaneity is our secret ingredient. While we meticulously plan the technical bits, leaving room for spontaneity injects a fresh and authentic air into our visuals. It's those unexpected moments that often turn out to be the real gems, capturing genuine emotions. Balancing meticulous planning with embracing the unexpected is what keeps our work dynamic and engaging.

What do you think the future of photography and filmmaking will look like in an increasingly technologically advanced world?

It's going to be a wild ride. Technology is going to play a massive role, with virtual reality, AI, and immersive experiences taking center stage. But amidst all the tech buzz, storytelling and capturing real human experiences will remain the driving force. The soul of visual arts won't change, ensuring the timeless relevance of what we do.

A big thank you to Giovanni Granada of Metro Studio for sharing with us his philosophy on art, science and how they intersect! If you'd like to see more of Metro Studio's work you can visit their member page or website.

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