"I am a filmmaker who tells supernatural stories, and thus atmosphere and light is key to my art. I trusted Michael as my cinematographer to execute the vision of my movie, and I am so glad that I did. Michael is intuitive and collaborative - you don't need to give much information to see the lighting you have in your mind come to life on the monitor, and then on the screen. You give him photographs and paintings reflecting the atmosphere you want and he works his magic to create the mood you envisioned. Michael is a breeze to work with. He is kind, well-grounded, and calm, which made the crews life easy and fun on the set. He has an extraordinary energy and drive, and I could not be more grateful for all he brought to the production, especially given our limited resources. His passion for the project was invaluable, his crew fantastic, and the equipment he supplied withing the budget was extraordinary. Michael is an artist who paints with light and wants to see projects realized with a rare determination."
"Working with Michael on our TSN national broadcast spot was a great experience as he helped every step of the way. He has such respect from all of his crew, as well as all of the people that were involved with the project. I don't think the shoot would have been as much of a success as it was if Michael and his crew were not part of the production. Keep up the great work and thank you for helping me get my vision on screen."
"A set without Michael Jari Davidson is honestly a set not getting what it needs. Never have I seen someone so quickly adapt to any specific vision you are searching for. I swear he's a mind reader. While always staying true to what you need, Michael is also never afraid to drop a suggestion that nine times out of ten will legitimately improve your film. Wonderful crew, wonderful attitude, and wonderful footage. Clearly if you want things done right, you need MJD."
"My GOD is Michael dedicated! He went over and beyond his call of duty as a cinematographer. Michael has a collaborative spirit that allowed me as a first-time director to feel comfortable and be able to explore every possibility available to me in creating my vision. He has a no nonsense approach and tells it how it is based on what you have, always in a friendly manner with his quirky one liners used as punch lines to diffuse any aneurismal situation and then promptly finding a solution. Easy breezy! In the end, he made my indie film look like a Hollywood movie and I refuse to shoot another film that I direct unless he's framing and lighting my picture."
"I like the way Michael will give you the straight goods regarding a project - he is NOT a "Yes Man" - if he disagrees with your approach, he will find a diplomatic and creative way of working around the problem. Michael brings much more than simply a cinematographer's approach to a project. My advice to any filmmaker is to bring Michael into their project early in the writing process."
"After a year of hoping to work together and finally having the opportunity, Michael has made it difficult for me to consider working with another DP. Michael's approach to the project was to assist in making the best possible film we could make. In our discussions and in making choices in framing, lighting and movement, Michael is always conscious of the dramatic effect of each shot, each scene and the entire film. He is as concerned about the image as he is about the narrative and the finished product. Michael's professionalism, confidence, creativity, hard work and mastery over the image are invaluable to a Director. I am eager to work with him again."
"Michael was an absolute pleasure to work with. He arrived on set ahead of me, executed my vision fully, and even managed to have a few laughs in the process. One of the things that really impressed me was how well he and his team worked together (gaffer / camera assistant). Within seconds of me asking for something to be done, there would be at least a few pairs of hands getting it done as quickly and accurately as possible. Truly a well-oiled machine."
"Michael and his crew are all about getting 'the shot'. While working long days, his professionalism and creativity never wane. His knowledge of light and composition are in resemblance of a young master. He is truly a filmmaker's filmmaker."
"Michael is a pleasure to work with on set, not only in terms of his professionalism and in terms of his obvious skills as a cinematographer, but also because of his positive zest and enthusiasm. It is obvious that Michael diligently studies the artistic vision of the director to ensure his technical execution lives up to the film you have in your head. I firmly stand by this after watching the dailies of our shoot. To our delight, all the shots were accurate to our vision."
"I have had the pleasure of working with Michael on several film projects now and can attest to the fact that I have yet to work with anyone else more reliable, excited, passionate and committed to Canadian film and television production. Michael is a real gem!"
"Michael knew how to achieve the look that I had in mind right away. He adapted very quickly to the changing conditions on the production and went beyond his role as cinematographer. More than that, Michael possesses the sensitivity necessary to evoke a certain emotional reaction through the cinematography - this is something that cannot be taught - it's an instinct that can, at best, be honed. Michael invested himself wholly into the film from the pre-production to the final stages of color-correction - he saw it as his art - he was involved, invested and protective at the highest capacity the entire way through."
"Michael's special strength is his passion for the moving image. This passion leads Michael's quest to be the best filmmaker he can be. Michael hungers for knowledge that he can apply in this quest. This passion knows no bounds when it comes to effort and enthusiasm."
"Under An African Sky required a filmmaker with a keen eye, sensitivity to the material, and an open heart. Michael remained compassionate while delivering a film of the utmost quality with professionalism and minimal guidance. Mr. Davidson's willingness to discover all he could about his subject matter, speaks to the commitment he has to his art and work. Clear communication, frank conversation, and prompt delivery of materials impressed the entire production team. I look forward to working with him again."
"Michael is dedicated to his craft and his improvement in his chosen trade. He strives for perfection in all duties assigned to him yet is able to maintain his focus on the “bigger picture” while multi-tasking. He is respectful, professional, well mannered and works with a constant regard for others working around him. He is passionate and experienced in the filmmaking process and will become a valuable member of the Toronto film community."
"Michael's enthusiasm for the art of filmmaking is infectious and something that he shares with those around him. Not only does Michael have an outstanding work ethic, he is able to work well both technically and creatively with his colleagues. His eagerness to learn and bright spirit are a benefit to any film crew."
