Humanity at the core
Produce Pensamiento is the force that drives what I do.
Produce: To produce; to make, create, or generate.
Pensamiento: Thought (via deep contemplation, deliberation, introspection).
I practise self-reflection and meaningful thinking, striving to continuously learn and grow as a human being. In doing so, I carefully examine perceptions and interpretations that may influence my thought process. I stay curious, nurturing my imagination and creativity.
My genuine interest to get involved in projects and listen to people’s stories and ideas allows me to co-create with all participants. The making of a film or video begins with talking to people and discussing ideas as well as defining the purpose of the work. It is at this early stage where I encourage critical thinking and broad awareness of the impact we may cause on participants and audiences. I try to avoid an ethnocentric approach to effectively empathise and understand a situation or a person’s reality. With the great support of people involved in a project, my commitment and experiences enable me to produce work of high quality in both content and form.
“It’s always a great pleasure working with Ro. Since the first contact, you know that your project is in great hands. Ro takes his client on a collaborative journey from the pre-production planning to the post-production editing and final cut. He pays attention to every detail and takes care of participants throughout the process. Ethics is central to his filming practice, especially the protection of the rights of participants. He also explains copyright ownership, video usage, and clarifies any doubts. I’ve gained insights into creating professional videos, effective communication, and providing constructive editing feedback. The experience with Ro has helped me in working with creative teams, who value clear, timestamped feedback because it provides specific and actionable guidance, streamlining the editing process. If you’re looking for a professional filmmaker who genuinely cares about his projects and everyone involved, who makes the experience truly collaborative and enjoyable with high-quality cinematic outcome, then look no further – Ro is your person.”
Dr Suzana Matoh, Senior Lecturer
Manchester Metropolitan University
“You really took Dorothy and what we were trying to achieve to heart and delivered a film we can all be very proud of as a project legacy.”
“Rodrigo demonstrates a sensitive and kind approach in his everyday demeanour. I have been significantly impressed by his attention to detail, analytical perception and intellectual insight along with his generous help and advice. Additionally, Rodrigo actively listens to people and then conveys and explains his ideas in a gentle and coherent manner. He is a true collaborator, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him. In ‘Dorothy Whipple: Beyond the Pages’ Rodrigo has crafted a short film which combines various creative elements, but which never loses sight of the film’s primary purpose to celebrate and to convey pride in Dorothy’s northern heritage.”
Mary Painter, Librarian
Blackburn Central Library
“I have had the pleasure of working with Rodrigo, and I can confidently say he is both reliable and highly skilled in his field. His work in filming is exceptional, consistently producing high-quality work. He has a remarkable ability to connect with people, putting everyone at ease in front of the camera, which results in authentic and engaging footage. Communication with Rodrigo has always been seamless. He is excellent at discussing briefs and offering different options, ensuring we achieve the best possible outcome. Working with Rodrigo has been a fantastic experience, and I highly recommend him for any filming project.”
Tatum, Community Project Worker
Healthwatch Leeds
“Ro Lara was an amazing person to work with – professional, courteous, patient and considerate at all times. Although his artistic vision and creativity was the key driver, Ro was a co-creator, a collaborator and this approach really helped us understand the best ways to showcase our event and highlight the best bits! Ro has managed to capture the sustainability festival’s atmosphere perfectly. We absolutely love the video – so a massive thanks to Ro for all his hard work during the day and post-production.”
Dr Roz Marron, Senior Lecturer
Manchester Metropolitan University
“I’ve really enjoyed meeting you […]. For me, it has been interesting because I’ve learnt new things about film and photography through you; you’re very skilled, knowledgeable and experienced; and so willing to share. You’re very detailed and have a high standard that you set for yourself which produces incredible quality and excellent work. You’re a man of integrity (great work ethic); with the ability to adapt and put people around you at ease. Most of all, you’re inspiring, encouraging and a very warm person. I’m very blessed to have met you! 😊”
Lisa Clarke, Volunteer Co-ordinator
The Exchange Blackburn
“It is always a pleasure to share knowledge with someone who is as passionate about their craft as you are. I wanted to take this opportunity to reiterate, you are a well-respected and talented student within the School of Medi[a] and Communication.”
Andrew Irving, Studio Manager
School of Media and Communication, University of Leeds
“Tienes la sensibilidad para ser un creador, me gusta tu labor particularmente con las personas, del respeto que les tienes, pero sobre todo del respeto que te tienes en el trabajo que realizas, es de un nivel profesional alto. Los rostros que muestras en los videos, hay humanidad, risas, remembranzas, dolor, tranquilidad, sentimientos implícitos en cada imagen y en cada cuadro de las propuestas que compartes.”
Enrique Father
You have the sensitivity to be a creator, I particularly like your work with people, the respect you have for them, but above all the respect you have for yourself in the work you do, it is of a high professional level. The faces you show in the videos, there is humanity, laughter, remembrances, pain, tranquillity, feelings implicit in each image and in each frame of the proposals you share.
Enrique Father
“It’s been an absolute pleasure working with you! […] You really have been one of the most efficient and top quality film makers I’ve worked with in my time at Healthwatch Leeds, so just a huge thank you for continuing to help Healthwatch Leeds make the most incredible impact within the health and care system in Leeds!”
Rameesah, Community Project Worker
Healthwatch Leeds
“[…] thanks for creating a wonderful film which really captures Dorothy’s spirit, her warmth and her strong ties to Blackburn. Thank you for all the work you have done on the project, I appreciate the short film is the result of hours of research, interviews, design, editing etc. we are delighted with the film […]”.
Adele Karwat, Service Manager
Blackburn Central Library
Ro Lara || Filmmaker and Videographer 