"Cinematography is more than just a camera."
A graduate of the California College of Arts (BFA), Paul Winters is an award-winning director of photography who has shot feature films, shorts, documentaries, commercials, music videos, political, and live sports. Paul’s cinematography was recognized by the ASC (American Society of Cinematographers) and he was invited to participate in the ASC Vision Mentorship Program in 2021.
As a filmmaker, Paul has decades of experience in film production. Paul began his film career as a production design artist in Los Angeles. Soon, his passion for storytelling and impeccable technique made him a much sought after storyboard artist for music videos and commercials.
After storyboarding, Paul went on to direct and produce Indie feature films, He also developed and produced/executive produced shows for all of the major Hollywood studios (Universal, Paramount, 20th Century Fox, Warner Brothers, Disney, Marvel, Showtime), and has worked with a long list of creatives including Steven Spielberg, Gahan Wilson, Mark Hamill, Paul Newman, Dean Stockwell, Frederic Forrest, and Stan Lee.
Now, Paul works exclusively as a cinematographer/director and is known for his quickness on set, and his shots that drive the narrative. He is always searching for the new and pushing boundaries.
Paul studied acting with legendary acting coach, Jeff Corey and worked for many years as an actor in film and television. He is a member of SAG-AFTRA. Paul was also an original member of the acclaimed Zoo District Theatre Company that grew out of the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District. Backstage said of Zoo District, “The courage and daring of this company are awe inspiring.”
ASC Vision Mentorship
Program Graduate, 2021
“Everything I’ve ever done on a film – storyboarding, directing, editing, and acting has made me a better cinematographer.”
Cinematographer Paul Winters talks about style.
"As a cinematographer, I write dreams with light."
"A cinematographer's job is to get into the head of the director and help him create his vision."
“As a cinematographer, you work with the director, the story, the cast, and the crew, and you tell that story from start to finish.”
"I'm a cinematographer who loves to operate. There is something magical when you are in the middle of a good scene with actors."
“You and your camera become part of that scene.”
"As an artist, one should keep their childlike sensibilities."
Playing with toy cars on the set of “Phyllis”, the pilot episode of Gahan Wilson’s Tales of Horror.