Today we’d like to introduce you to Chy’enne Fortson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Chy’enne Fortson a.k.a “CameraChy”. I was always shy growing up and not always having the confidence to approach people and make friends. For as long as I can remember, I had a camera in my hand throughout my childhood. From the disposable cameras at my soccer games, family reunions, and being one of the photographers for my high school yearbook my junior and senior year. This desire took me to UNT in Denton where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Media Arts. I love being behind the camera and capturing all the highlights. I started my career as a photographer, and have since transitioned into a cinematographer which I always dreamed of being. I have gained so much experience over the last 5 years working on short films, indie feature films, and television mini series. I thrive on the challenges I face on each set I walk on. My dream is to not to be like Spike Lee or Ava Duvernay, but stand alongside them in conversations of what makes a great filmmaker when it comes to making movies. They are my inspiration and I want to be able to shake their hands one day.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The greatest challenge has been making my way into the industry, getting to know the community of filmmakers. Upon gaining access into the community, I found that anything that can happen on set will happen when you’re working on independent films. You have to take the bitter with the sweet and I’m constantly reminding myself that, “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor”. From long hours, the uncertainty of when your next project is coming, or just trying to balance a 9-5 job; these are some of challenges that I face. I am still developing my skills as I work on each set.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m currently making a name for myself as a cinematographer within DFW independent filmmaking community. I am fortunate that most of my opportunities have been through word of mouth. I have been cast as an Assistant Camera Operator (1st or 2nd AC), an Assistant Producer, Production Assistant, and many other roles in filmmaking. My experiences have opened up opportunities for me to work with the main DP (Director of Photography) with setting up cameras, lighting, and anything else that is needed on set. I have used my experiences to be a behind the scenes photographer and videographer for movies and music videos as well. I currently have several projects that are streaming such as “No Better Love” (2022), “Heavier” (2023), “Mister Gates” (2024), and C.O.D.E (2025).
Most recently I premiered my first feature film as the cinematographer in October called “A Beautiful Voice” (2025). I was very proud of not just being the DP but also the editor for my first feature film.
What sets me apart from anyone else is that I like being the “Jack of All Trade”. I enjoy learning every aspect of every part of filmmaking. Each role is just as important as the next one when it comes to making a movie.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The lesson I would say that I learned is, to stop comparing myself with everyone else. Everyone is unique in their own way and I’m unique in my own way. It really is all about the journey and not the destination. My camera has taken me places I thought I would never go. My camera has gained me access to meet and work with talented people all over DFW who I can now call friends and even family. I learned to pick myself up and keep going. By any means necessary, I will the best cinematographer from DFW. Having my camera has allowed me to open up to people and be more comfortable in crowded room. I wouldn’t know where I would be right now without my camera.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imcamerachy?igsh=Z2l6ZG81bW1icHhk&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1M7dUo9LKE/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@imcamerachy
Image Credits
Black & White Studio Session with Jay Tre shot by Me (ImCameraChy) Golden record background shot by Me (ImCameraChy) The picture with the black backdrop & Cinema Sign was taken by (G-Lady of SoGe Filmworks) The Girl hanging on Street Light Belleview during a protest Shot by Me (ImcameraChy) Group photo on set of “Thicker the Berry, the Sweeter the Juice 2” shot by (Otis Clayborne II) Me with the beanie closer up on camera vertical picture shot by (Nicole Simmons) Me with camera at my profile on the set of “#WhoKilledJabori?” shot by (Billie Hara Sharp) Me wearing green sweater with camera on set of “Thicker the Berry, the Sweeter the Juice 2” shot by (Jeff X Visuals) Devin The Dude group photo red background Shot by Me (ImCameraChy)
