“Light is life. For me, everything starts with light.”

Iranian-born French cinematographer Darius Khondji emphasized the fundamental role of light in his work, stating, “Light is life. For me, everything starts with light.” Renowned for shaping some of the most striking visual experiences in contemporary cinema, Khondji's artistry can be seen in films such as *Seven*, *Delicatessen*, *Uncut Gems*, and *Mickey 17*. In a recent conversation with an AA correspondent, he reflected on the significance of light in filmmaking, the evolving presence of artificial intelligence in the industry, and the collaborative relationships he has cultivated with some of cinema’s most influential directors. Drawing a vivid analogy, Khondji described the cinematographer as a translator—someone who interprets and transforms the director’s vision into visual language. His words highlight the delicate balance between technical skill and creative intuition, underscoring his belief that the cinematographer’s role is not merely to capture images, but to bring the emotional and narrative essence of a story to life through light, framing, and movement.