Renee Faia is half of the rock group The Mazarines, and virtually all of the production team that shoots the group’s videos. Her “Summer Wine” music video won 2nd place at the International iPhone Film Festival in March 2014. In the following interview, Renee takes us behind the scenes of her moviemaking work.

Did you script “Summer Wine”?

No, but I had a concept in mind. The Mazarines are primarily a duo, myself and Gregg Stewart. I come up with the concepts, pull photos to communicate what I’m looking to do, then direct, shoot and edit. I appear in them as well.

How did you get the retro look?

I used the 8mm app (Noir setting) for most of the shots. When Gregg & I started The Mazarines, we knew how we wanted the visuals to reflect the sound. Because there is a contrast of light/dark in the music, that contrast needed to be present in the videos as well.

Why shoot on an iPhone?

It’s quick and I love that I can be inconspicuous. I’m always on the lookout for things that inspire me. Shooting with the iPhone makes it easy to get something before it’s gone. I’ve directed six iPhone videos for our band. Summer Wine was shot when I had my iPhone 4. I now use the 5S.

Tell us about the locations.

We were in London and Sicily last summer and I got inspired to shoot while I was there. I knew I wanted images of Gregg walking the streets of London and I was able to shoot without anyone really knowing. I also shot in a room in Sicily, it was our last day there. The light was amazing. Shooting with an iPhone really allows for that kind of spontaneity. There is also various footage that was filmed in LA and in Ohio.

When you appear in the video, does Gregg doing the camerawork?

I usually film myself by using a tripod or propping the phone up against something. At times I may ask Gregg to film it if I can’t get the angle I want.

Did you learn anything in making this video that applies to future projects?

I’ve been working with some really cool gear. Both Smart Phocus and Fostex have great products for mobile phones.

How did you develop your moviemaking skills?

I studied at Columbus College of Art & Design, which was a great foundation. I have also worked as an actor and behind the camera in film in various capacities—as an art director, set decorator, model-maker, set designer, costume stylist, make-up artist and photographer. All this helped to round out my approach to directing videos.

What’s next?

Other bands have started asking me to direct music videos for them, which is really great. I am currently prepping for a shoot—an iPhone music video for a the band, Willodean. I am going to continue to shoot more videos for The Mazarines. We want to shoot a video for every song on the EP.

What link can people  use if they want to buy your music?

Either from The Mazarines website  or from  iTunes.