Aylene Lopez

Delacreme Scholar Spotlight: Class of 2020 

By Bragard Kizenga

Could you introduce yourself? Where you went to school, and what did you get your degree(s) in?

My name is Aylene Lopez and I am a recent graduate from DePaul University where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television with a concentration in cinematography.

How did you find your niche when it came to working in film and production?

I got into filmmaking after participating in a few After School Matters video production programs where I learned the basics of planning, shooting, and even editing projects of various genres. I also took film studies classes throughout high school, which introduced me to historically significant films and the trends of the eras they belonged to. Eventually, during my time at DePaul, I discovered my love for the lighting department where I’ve worked consistently as gaffer or best boy electric. Both roles involve directing a crew to set up and modify lights, which I believe is key to establishing a film’s visual design. 

How has working and going to school in Chicago shaped your skill?

In my experience, Chicago’s film community is extremely tight-knit, making it an ideal environment to grow into your desired role, especially when nearly everyone in the industry is willing to share their knowledge and expertise. Because of these conditions, I have been able to learn from some of the greatest figures in grip and electric (G&E), who I’ve met through my connections with faculty and fellow students at DePaul. Chicago is also a city that likes to stay busy, so there is always a production in need of hands who work G&E. This means I have lots of opportunities to continue building my professional experience while learning new facets of filmmaking I hadn’t considered before.

What’s your favorite production you’ve worked on and why?

Some of my favorite sets are the ones where the story is rooted in uplifting marginalized voices. Earlier this year, I was fortunate enough to gaff a short film called Extraño (@extranofilm) which is about the impact immigration has on the mental health of those who immigrate away from home and family. The film featured a latine-led cast and crew, which is rare in the film industry let alone at DePaul. I remember feeling very empowered being surrounded by like-minded creative individuals who had similar cultural upbringings to me. It was also a set that reminded me why I enjoy doing what I do, which can be easy to lose sight of after working back to back sets.

How did you find the scholarship?

I believe I found out about the scholarship after seeing either a local Chicago artist or mutual aid organization share a post about Delacreme Scholars on Instagram. Once I learned about their commitment to students of color, especially those in creative fields, I knew I had to become involved in their community.

What advice would you give to future Delacreme Scholar?

My advice to future Delacreme Scholars is to surround yourself with people that will encourage your growth in whatever path you decide to pursue. Don’t be afraid to network and collaborate with new people, or people with more experience than yourself一you never know where a conversation will lead you! On the flip side, try to make time for your personal life. Projects will come and go, but friends, family, and your own well-being are there to stay.