With 15 Grammys and a permanent place in the Hall of Fame, Willie Nelson is regaled by many as one of the most iconic country singers, but his latest chart-topper is unique for one major reason: the music video had LASA alumni, Jacob Voss, working as the first assistant cameraman.
The song, “Cowboys are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other”, featuring Orville Peck, was released on April 5. Since graduation in 2015, Jacob Voss has gained experience through various jobs while getting a degree at UT. Voss also used his role in the video to increase his experience in the workforce.
Initially, Voss explored his interest in film during middle school where practiced different lighting and editing techniques on his Sony camera. In his time at LASA, Voss became increasingly involved in the film department by taking Intro and Advanced Audio Video Production (AVP), where he got to explore different film techniques and media taught by Vannesa Mokry, the AVP teacher at LASA.
“Ms. Mokry was a huge influence,” Voss said. “She not only gave us the freedom to explore the art form, but she also encouraged and guided us to new pieces of media that would inspire us. The most important takeaway from LASA was the importance of hard work [and to] find your strengths and lean into them.”
Mokry has been teaching AVP at LASA for the last 18 years, and throughout this time, she has helped students process the world through movie-making. She teaches students how to operate cameras, set up lighting, and use editing software so her students can tell a story that means something to them.
“Film school is a choice, and it’s not a necessity,” Mokry said. “Some schools could benefit you if you can get into those schools. … They will help you make friends in your cohort. [Film students] may be able to access more resources and have more people to work with that also want to work in film.”
After high school Voss mostly applied to engineering schools; however, he also wanted to apply to film school. His passion drove him to apply to the University of Texas at Austin’s (UT) highly-ranked film program.
“I took a leap of faith,” Voss said. “I decided if I didn’t pursue filmmaking then, I never would. I had some very lucky connections at UT, who graciously advised me and helped me get into the film program.”
Voss explained that his college experience and the people he met during college influenced him and his filmmaking career. Building on the foundation built during his college years, Voss emphasized how important his professors and networking opportunities were in changing his professional journey.
“Once I graduated and made it into UT the grind began,” Voss said. “My professors were massive in my growth – truly, I recommend making friends with or at least being friendly with your professors in college. I joined a professional fraternity in college for filmmaking … which helped me grow professionally with mock interviews, presentations, and many friends.”
Both Mokry and Voss explained that knowing people is necessary for success in the film industry and establishing a good reputation can make it much easier to get jobs. According to Voss, getting connections is vital to grow as a filmmaker.
“It’s all about networking. It’s definitely about proving yourself and being reliable,” Mokry said. “Prove that you’re a hard worker, and if you get your door, [put] your foot in the door.”
Voss emphasized that to build your reputation and get rewarding jobs, there are some expectations that you should have for yourself. For Voss, acting with respect is as important as being confident and knowing what you’re talking about.
“The film industry is funny [getting jobs] is mostly by word of mouth. If you have a decent reputation you’ll end up in cool places,” Voss said. “While building your reputation, be kind and be confident in yourself.”
Before the music video, he worked on a short film with Ivy Chui, a Texas-raised Director of Photography (DP). While the job was low-paying, he wanted to be able to learn from Chui. Who he described as insanely talented.
“Next thing I knew a production manager was calling me and asking if I was available for a music video that Ivy would be DPing,” Voss said. “I was just excited to work more with them, but once I found out who the artist was, I was even more excited about it.”
Voss was responsible for being the first camera assistant for the music video. The first camera assistant works under the director of photography and is in charge of setting up the camera and making sure it works.
“The first assistant camera’s main job is to keep the film in focus,” Mokry said. “They usually do it remotely and they’re watching it, and they’re adjusting focus as the camera moves or as the actor moves. They are also in charge of the rest of the camera department, managing people, and making sure they’re doing their job.”
Voss plans to DP for more passion projects in the future. He also thinks that most people can find the same success.
“Learning quickly and listening will get you far,” Voss said. “Also, don’t be an asshole. You get to meet so many people and join a very tight-knit community, and you’ll make some of your closest friends. Plus, you’re working on some beautiful, meaningful projects. Finally, never stop learning. There is always a more efficient way to do something. Keep learning no matter how much you think you know.”
