When you watched your last movie, what stayed with you — the ending, the acting, or the stunning visuals and sounds?
Most of us focus on the actors and the storyline. But behind every captivating frame, there’s a team of hardworking individuals whose names we rarely hear: cinematographers, sound recordists, grips, editors, and more. These are the unsung heroes who bring the magic to life.

One of these incredible creatives is Louis Udahemuka, a 37-year-old cinematographer, editor, and director whose name is quickly becoming known in Rwanda’s film industry.

Born on May 2, 1988, in Nyamasheke, Western Province of Rwanda, Louis is the fifth of six siblings. He’s married and a proud father of one. Though today he’s known for his cinematography, Louis initially dreamed of becoming a journalist. But life took a turn — a serendipitous one — that led him to the world of film.

The unexpected beginning

“I never thought I’d work in the film industry,” Louis told us in an exclusive interview. “It looked like magic—something only geniuses or white people could do. But then everything changed.”

After finishing secondary school, Louis’s sister connected him with a friend whose child was working in photography and videography in Uganda. Louis traveled there to learn from him, shadowing him at weddings and other events. What began as curiosity turned into passion.

“I spent three and a half months in Uganda learning the basics,” he said. “That’s when I realized—this is something I could actually do.”

Returning to Rwanda, he faced a new chapter. Eager to sharpen his skills further, Louis enrolled at Kwetu Film Institute while juggling part-time jobs. He began editing simple videos, and soon, his talent got noticed.

A breakthrough moment

His mentor, Habarugira Valens, recommended him for a project by filmmaker Bizimana Theo. The original editor had dropped out, and Louis was given the chance to edit the movie Serwakira. It went viral.

“People loved it,” he recalled. “It opened doors for me.”

That success proved to be a turning point. Louis won the Thousand Hills Academy award for his work on Serwakira, and jobs started pouring in. He edited the popular series Sakabaka, then stepped onto film sets himself. Each opportunity became a stepping stone. His cinematography debut came through a recommendation from Kennedy Mazimpaka. That led to more opportunities, including Indoto, where he served as director, editor, and cinematographer, and Ejo Si Kera, where he worked as Director of Photography (DOP).

His work didn’t stop at Rwanda’s borders. He also contributed to international productions, such as Neptune Frost by Saul Williams, where he worked as an assistant grip. “That film changed how I looked at cinema,” Louis said. “It was the first time I saw how professionals worked on a global scale.”

Overcoming challenges

Louis admitted that the journey wasn’t always easy. “Low income was a big challenge. I studied accounting, and sometimes I’d think about my classmates working in banks, earning more. But my passion wouldn’t let me leave film.”

Determined to grow despite the odds, Louis invested in himself. He bought his own camera to increase his job opportunities. He also learned through YouTube tutorials and sought guidance from professionals around him. “Lack of advanced schools was tough, but I found my own way.”

Keys to success

When asked about the secret to his success, Louis pointed to continuous learning, discipline, professionalism, and faith. “I pray. I ask God what He wants me to do,” he said. “If someone gives you an opportunity and you give it your best, they’ll give you more.”

Among his favorite projects, Louis named Neptune Frost for its eye-opening experience, and Ejo Si Kera for giving him the creative freedom to express himself fully.

Gratitude and dreams

Louis proudly acknowledged those who supported his journey: his sisters, Elisabeth Nahimana and Dr. Marie Claire Ndayisaba; mentors like Valens Habarugira and Kennedy Mazimpaka for trusting and supporting him; and fellow industry professionals who entrusted their projects to him like Niyitegeka Gratien, Wilson Misago, and Felix Mpfizi. “I thank everyone who ever trusted me with their project and all my collegues. You guys mean a lot to me,” he said.

As he looks ahead, his ambitions grow deeper. Louis wants to explore his other talents: writing, composing songs, and singing. “I want to work on my own projects and invest in myself,” he said.

Advice for aspiring filmmakers

To those who dream of following in his footsteps, Louis had this to say:

> “Make sure you love what you do. If it’s your calling, no challenge will make you give up. Discipline is key. People trust those who behave well. Learn constantly, stay updated with trends, watch movies, and invest in yourself. If you want to buy a camera, buy it.”

The list of movies he worked on so far and his titles.

Local Productions

2014: Serwakira (as Editor) –by Bizimana Theo
2014: Sakabaka (as Editor) – by Nsanzamahoro Denis
2015: Seburikoko (as DOP) –by Wilson Misago
2019: Papa Sava (as Cinematographer & Editor) –by Niyitegeka Gratien
2020: Indoto (as Director, Cinematographer, Editor) –by Wilson Misago
2021: Ejo Si Kera (as DOP) –by Wilson Misago
2022: Twin Lakes Haven (as Cinematographer) –by Philbert Sharangabo
2022: Igihango (as DOP) –by Felix Mpfizi
2023: Selfish (as DOP) –by Felix Mpfizi
2023: Ishusho ya Papa (as DOP) –by Wilson Misago
2024: Greenland (as DOP) –by Mashalket
2024: Kaliza wa Kalisa (as DOP) –by Wilson Misago

International productions

Louis Udahemuka on the set of Neptune Frost

2019: Neptune Frost (as Assistant Grip) –by Saul Williams
2022: Africanda / Alkeburan (as Assistant Grip) –by Tariro Washe
2023: Ebuka Turns Up Africa (as Gimbal & Camera Operator) –by Amazon Prime

From a small town in Rwanda to international sets, Louis Udahemuka’s journey proves that passion, discipline, and humility can open any door. Behind every frame he shoots is a story of resilience and belief. For the young Rwandan dreaming behind a camera lens today, Louis is proof that the dream is valid—and possible.