Valley native loves work behind the camera

Staff report

Todd SanSone, a YSU alumnus and former Liberty resident, had a behind-the-scenes role for “Inception,” one of last year’s most successful films. “Inception” was nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Picture, and wound up winning four: Cinematography, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing and Visual Effects.

With a complex story line and a tight shooting schedule, there was no margin for error from any department.

“Probably the most thrilling experience was watching an intelligent director like Christopher Nolan bring his complex script to life,” said SanSone, who is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A.E. Vea of Liberty.

“It was also amazing to work with one of the most talented directors of photography, Wally Pfister, and his camera crew. It’s gratifying to have your department recognized for all the hard work.”

SanSone was hired as a second-assistant camera technician. A camera tech’s job is to help maintain and keep track of camera equipment and accessories such as lenses, filters, film magazines and exposed film or data. Camera assistants also configure the cameras for the next shot.

Shooting days can run about 14 hours or longer, and every day is different. “Some days we were doing daytime exterior shots, some were nighttime shots, and frequently we were working under man-made conditions such as rain created by the special-effects team,” said SanSone.

Although SanSone said it’s hard work to survive in such a competitive industry, he credits his time at Youngstown State University for helping him pursue his dream of working in film.

“While at YSU, I developed an independent-study curriculum in filmmaking, which was not offered at the time,” said Sansone. “That experience encouraged me to take risks and always be willing to learn a new skill so you’re ready for the next challenge.”

SanSone has done camera work on more than a dozen feature films, including “Gulliver’s Travels,” “Knight and Day,” “Takers” and “James Bond: Quantum of Solace” and several upcoming films, including “Thor” and “Vamps.”

He also is working on episodic TV shows, including “The Event” and “Bones.”