Michael Jacoby – “Through the Lens of: Tod Forbes” (Best Documentary Film)

What drew you to the story of Tod Forbes for your documentary?
Michael Jacoby: – What drew me to the story of Tod Forbes was not based on a cinematic intention, but purely for the honoring of his craft as a photographer. Tod Forbes is a great friend of mine, and as soon as I met him at SUNY Oswego, I knew I had to find a pathway to showcase his phenomenal eye for nature through his specific lens.

How did you approach crafting the narrative for Through the Lens of: Tod Forbes?
Michael Jacoby: – Tod and I found a way to combine his photos with a question at the start of it all. “How did you get interested in photography and what continues to drive that passion.” His voice paved the way for the narrative to flow in an organic way so that it remained personal and close to his intention as an artist.

What challenges did you encounter while creating this documentary?
Michael Jacoby: – While filming scenes at the lakefront on Lake Ontario we were dealing with extreme
winds and a sun that continued to hide behind clouds, but overall this creation found a
way to swing into place in the best way I could ask for.

What does winning Best Documentary Film mean to you?
Michael Jacoby: – This award means exactly one thing to me and that is the fact that Tod Forbes
photography is showcased and delivered to more people than we ever hoped for. Also a chance for this piece to spread and allow others the chance to immerse themselves in a photographer that is one with their subjects. Humans & Nature.

What’s next for you in documentary filmmaking?
Michael Jacoby: – I am currently working on a documentary following the concept of hatred, part of an anthology of sorts, and it doesn’t paint the picture in a cynical way, but allows everyone to see it through their own experiences, just as we will live and breathe. I have a few other documentaries I want to get to, but time is always the question. I know I have to take my time, and things will unfold as they come. Truly Honored to be able to share this with you all, and thank you for your time!

How did you capture the essence of Tod Forbes’ life and work in your film?
Michael Jacoby: – With the kind help of Tod Forbes, we were able to use his work in a way that presents it both visually, but also mentally as he explains his connection to the overall art form.

Can you talk about your research process for this project?
Michael Jacoby: – I myself am a huge fan of his photography, and how he is able to capture a natural connection between his experience and nature. I figured the best setting to film this piece was the exact spots that he loves to take photos at. If we weren’t able to contain ourselves in the same place as his mindset, it would feel like a facade by going to a location that isn’t special to him personally. We needed to be one with his art, and I am so happy we were able to do so.

How do you hope Through the Lens of: Tod Forbes impacts the audience?
Michael Jacoby: – I hope this documentary opens the doors for other creatives, not just in photography, but with any art form of our desire. As artists, we do not need to have the most expensive gear or equipment there is on the market. As long as we have the main tools to communicate our passion, there is nothing more beautiful than that area of exploration. At the time, Tod Forbes was using his phone, whatever he could capture on his device, and that was more than enough for him to be able to express his love for nature and his connection to it. As long as you find peace in your work, that’s all the validation you need
to continue.

What role do documentaries play in preserving legacies like that of Tod Forbes?
Michael Jacoby: – Documentaries can transcend time and space, and if we’re able to share a story with the world in any capacity, there’s nothing more amazing than spreading the word around us to those who haven’t discovered it yet, or aren’t the most familiar with it. I myself love documentaries, not only because of the story, but because of the unique nature of everything in this world, there’s no alike “snowflakes”, every person is their own, and if we’re able to communicate that as people then we are closer than ever to unity.