BEGINNINGS
A native of Massachusetts, I started experimenting with cameras as a kid and became enamored. What began as goofy videos with friends turned into more narrative and visually experimental projects through my teen years. But I knew I could do more.
LEARNING
Filmmaking became my passion, and I chose to study the craft at RIT. After hundreds of hours on set in nearly every production role, I had no doubt that the camera department was my calling. Between my Junior and Senior years, I directed photography on eight projects (two of which served as my RIT capstone films) and color-graded an additional nine films.
PHILOSOPHY
My greatest asset is collaborating with creatives to meet their vision regardless of medium, story, or tone. My cinematography style does not impose itself but rather molds to the needs of a project. I love taking on a wide variety of challenges and project types.
PROJECTS
The scope of films I have worked on is diverse. Though a majority reside in the narrative short film space, I have also shot documentaries, sports, and commercials, including working twice for Coca-Cola as part of their Refreshing Films international contest which my team won in 2022. That year, I also directed/DPed my first film to make a festival run.
GEAR
My current equipment list can be found here. I've also frequented cameras such as the Arri Alexa Mini, Sony FX-3, RED Komodo, Canon C300, and Blackmagic URSA Mini. My DP work has been lit by Arri SkyPanels, Aperture LEDs, and Joker HMIs. I've also had the pleasure of working in industry-standard spaces such as MAGIC Spell Studios and the Baselight Color Correction Suite.
michaeldefranco.02@gmail.com