Coop Tatendrang – Fredy Hauser

Project Overview

I produced this cinematic portrait for Coop to highlight the authentic manual craft behind their traditional products. We spent a full working day with artisanal cheesemaker Fredy Hauser on Alp Combe Noire in the Canton of Vaud, capturing the highly specialized process of creating Gruyère d’Alpage AOP over an open wood fire.

Speed as a Narrative Tool

To convey both the precision and the physical pace of the workflow, I utilized speed-ramping in my cinematography. Jumping between regular speed and slow-motion within a single shot allowed me to visually express actions that were simultaneously urgent, deliberate, and careful.

Working with Steam

The intense ambient humidity inside the workshop presented a constant challenge, forcing us to battle fogging lenses throughout the day. However, I strategically used this high humidity to enhance the visual texture of the film; by positioning a strong light source outside the workshop window, I made the internal steam catch the rays to create beautiful volumetric lighting.

Sound and Energy

To break away from standard, passive corporate profiles, I selected a rock soundtrack. I chose this style to underline the immense physical exertion and raw energy required for manual mountain cheesemaking, shifting the narrative tone from a gentle job to a demanding craft.

Creating a Familiar Environment

Because Fredy Hauser is a naturally soft-spoken and introverted person, lowering his guard required a sensitive approach. I conducted the interview directly inside his familiar workshop and invited his son to be present on set, establishing an immediate sense of personal security that allowed for an authentic on-camera conversation.