Hi, I’m David Ortkiese, a union Local 600 Cinematographer and DGA Director based in Santa Clarita, California. Over 23 years, I’ve shaped cinematic storytelling for Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, CBS, NBC, Roku, and Amazon Prime, working across scripted, documentary, commercial, and unscripted formats. I translate creative vision into powerful imagery, balancing artistry with efficiency on large studio shoots and agile run-and-gun productions. I’m known for building collaborative environments, leading camera and lighting teams, and delivering visually compelling work under pressure. I value safety, creativity, and clear communication on set, and I strive to keep the storytelling at the heart of every shot while pushing technical boundaries.

David Ortkiese

Hi, I’m David Ortkiese, a union Local 600 Cinematographer and DGA Director based in Santa Clarita, California. Over 23 years, I’ve shaped cinematic storytelling for Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, CBS, NBC, Roku, and Amazon Prime, working across scripted, documentary, commercial, and unscripted formats. I translate creative vision into powerful imagery, balancing artistry with efficiency on large studio shoots and agile run-and-gun productions. I’m known for building collaborative environments, leading camera and lighting teams, and delivering visually compelling work under pressure. I value safety, creativity, and clear communication on set, and I strive to keep the storytelling at the heart of every shot while pushing technical boundaries.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m David Ortkiese, a union Local 600 Cinematographer and DGA Director based in Santa Clarita, California. Over 23 years, I’ve shaped cinematic storytelling for Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, CBS, NBC, Roku, and Amazon Prime, working across scripted, documentary, commercial, and unscripted formats. I translate creative vision into powerful imagery, balancing artistry with efficiency on large studio shoots and agile run-and-gun productions.

I’m known for building collaborative environments, leading camera and lighting teams, and delivering visually compelling work under pressure. I value safety, creativity, and clear communication on set, and I strive to keep the storytelling at the heart of every shot while pushing technical boundaries.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Director of Photography / Cinematographer at Freelance
January 1, 2001 - Present
Partner with producers and directors to establish a distinct visual language and maintain consistency across episodes and campaigns. Lead camera and lighting departments on location and stage, ensuring creative integrity and technical accuracy under tight deadlines. Design and execute cinematic lighting plans that enhance tone, depth, and narrative. Implement efficient on-set workflows and color pipelines to preserve look from capture through grade. Mentor camera crews and nurture emerging talent, emphasizing collaboration, safety, and innovation.
Director at Freelance
January 1, 2008 - Present
Direct episodic and branded content focused on dynamic storytelling and human connection. Manage multi-department teams to align creative vision, scheduling, and deliverables. Balance performance, pacing, and composition to achieve polished, network-ready episodes.

Education

Associate of Science in Film Technologies at Valencia College
January 1, 2000 - January 1, 2000
Associate of Science in Film Technologies at Valencia College
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2000

Qualifications

IATSE Local 600 — International Cinematographers Guild
January 11, 2030 - February 14, 2026
Directors Guild of America (DGA)
January 11, 2030 - February 14, 2026
IATSE Local 600 — International Cinematographers Guild
January 11, 2030 - February 14, 2026
Directors Guild of America (DGA)
January 11, 2030 - February 14, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Other