Allies

In this interview, we speak with award winning cinematographer, Ron Sim. It is a thoughtful discussion where we get to the heart of what drives Ron, why seeing the people behind the story is vital to his work, and how the head and the heart come together to turn events into news and life into art. In a world that frequently overuses and misstates what it means to be a real storyteller, Ron delivers in ways that are thought-provoking, visceral and human. We hope you enjoy hearing how his commitment to be an ally to people and culture around the world has shaped his life.

Show Notes

Ron Sim, CSC

Cinematographer. Filmmaker. Storyteller.  As a former combat photographer, James Beard nominee, and six-time winner of the Canadian Society of Cinematographers Award for excellence in branding and commercial cinematography, Ron is arguably one of the most respected, passionate, and acclaimed cinematographers in the world.  His work spans multiple genres—from commercials, television, documentaries, and web films to special assignments in hostile environments, remote geographies, and natural disasters.

Always reinventing himself, his passion for storytelling is fueled by his desire to bring viewers into different worlds, expanding their perspective, and gaining a better understanding of the people and places that make up our planet. With his camera, he has travelled to and worked in 83 countries.  His ability to connect with people from all walks of life—at every corner of the globe, allows him to tell stories unlike any other.  As a Director of Photography, his penchant for experimentation with technique and style allows him to always remain on the cutting edge of filmmaking.

His body of work is a reflection of his understanding of the human experience.  From working with celebrity chef Eric Ripert on the Emmy Award winning series Avec Eric--presented by SquareSpace, to interviewing NASCAR racing legend Richard Childress, to capturing the plight of survivors of genocide in Cambodia--his films have been shot and viewed around the world.  His work on commercials, web films, and corporate branding campaigns for such global clients as Dow Chemical, Toyota, Ford, Harley Davidson, McDonald's, and LG has garnered millions of online views and has helped to excel the reputation of their brands.  A portfolio this diverse and eclectic places him in a rare class of DP’s that can handle an array of projects for any type of media platform.

He and his wife, Linda, are owners of a tiny morkie named Milo who thinks he's a British pitbull.  He currently sits on the board of directors of various non-profits, and is Vice President of his local Cambodian Cultural Association.  He is founder and owner of Simmod Lens, an online company specializing in lens modifications and accessories. In his spare time he can be found on the RC race track dueling it out with kids half his age racing high powered remote controlled cars. 

Ron and Linda currently reside in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

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Photography by Syx Langemann

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Music courtesy of Dan Rodriguez:
"The Allies Theme" by Dan Rodriguez

What is Allies?

Allies is a podcast that brings together people of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities and experience to share their stories of success, of failure and of forging their paths in life. We dive head first into tough issues like race, privilege and justice to find the similarities and differences among us that make life interesting and challenging. It’s awkward, honest and real, the kind of conversations we need now more than ever.