Arun Chaudhary, the first ever Official White House videographer, visited the University yesterday evening to describe the opportunity he has to broadcast previously unseen aspects of President Barack Obama's life in the White House.
The Center for Politics hosted the event in the Rotunda Dome room, where Chaudhary, who received his degree in film theory from Cornell University and served an adjunct instructor at New York University, spoke about his experiences while filming Obama.
Chaudhary's lecture also included video clips of the weekly podcast he produces, "West Wing Week." The podcast is released every Friday and follows thepresident's week.
During his talk, Chaudhary emphasized his goal to portray the president as he truly is. "There is a lack of clarity in politics," he said. "My mission is to try to find clarity in messaging to show people their leader in the most authentic way possible. If you actually have the real thing, use it."
Chaudhary said his video clips offer a "different tone," and insight into executive affairs.
Chaudhary's work often captures Obama during casual moments, acting in a relaxed way which is difficult to find in a speech or press conference.
"People want an authentic response," Chaudhary said. "What's interesting to me is the special space between the public and private, the time right before he goes out to make a speech."
Chaudhary also discussed the difficulties he faces while working in politics as a videographer. "There is an uneasy relationship between the arts and politics," he said. "People are very suspicious about new things in politics."
Chaudhary said he aims to create a bridge between online and traditional media during his time at the White House. "[Chaudhary] is an early pioneer with what campaigns are doing ...online," Center for Politics spokesperson Kyle Kondik said. "This is an emerging medium, a different role doing online video. I expect future presidents will have videographers as well"
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