Hi! I’m Louis, a cinematographer with 4+ years of experience shooting narrative short films and commercials, several of which have been recognized at film festivals such as CineYouth at CIFF. Having grown up in four countries across Europe and Asia, I bring a global perspective to the stories I help tell. My journey began with love of street photography, taking any chance to photograph the places I travel and share their subtle details that make them unique, but I felt the need to tell stories with motion. I value authenticity. I aim to honor the director’s vision - the core of any project - while bringing my own perspective to the work. I seek to understand what makes their story personal, encouraging them to share their experiences and inspirations behind it. From there, I offer my ideas so our visions can merge and shape the film together. As a cinematographer, my intention is to immerse viewers in a character’s world. Through lighting and camera work, I draw the audience away from their present reality and into the emotional truth of the story. I enjoy telling stories about identity—where someone comes from, what they’ve experienced, and why their journey matters to the viewer. In recent years, alongside narrative filmmaking, I’ve developed a strong interest in commercial filmmaking, particularly narrative-driven campaigns that connect with audiences on a deeper level. My approach to pre-production is grounded in preparation and intentionality. I believe that careful planning empowers the crew, creates a collaborative environment, and leaves room for creativity on set. Collaborative, organized and determined, my goal is to hone your ideas and create remarkable and engaging images for your audience.

Louis Mellinand

Hi! I’m Louis, a cinematographer with 4+ years of experience shooting narrative short films and commercials, several of which have been recognized at film festivals such as CineYouth at CIFF. Having grown up in four countries across Europe and Asia, I bring a global perspective to the stories I help tell. My journey began with love of street photography, taking any chance to photograph the places I travel and share their subtle details that make them unique, but I felt the need to tell stories with motion. I value authenticity. I aim to honor the director’s vision - the core of any project - while bringing my own perspective to the work. I seek to understand what makes their story personal, encouraging them to share their experiences and inspirations behind it. From there, I offer my ideas so our visions can merge and shape the film together. As a cinematographer, my intention is to immerse viewers in a character’s world. Through lighting and camera work, I draw the audience away from their present reality and into the emotional truth of the story. I enjoy telling stories about identity—where someone comes from, what they’ve experienced, and why their journey matters to the viewer. In recent years, alongside narrative filmmaking, I’ve developed a strong interest in commercial filmmaking, particularly narrative-driven campaigns that connect with audiences on a deeper level. My approach to pre-production is grounded in preparation and intentionality. I believe that careful planning empowers the crew, creates a collaborative environment, and leaves room for creativity on set. Collaborative, organized and determined, my goal is to hone your ideas and create remarkable and engaging images for your audience.

Available to hire

Hi! I’m Louis, a cinematographer with 4+ years of experience shooting narrative short films and commercials, several of which have been recognized at film festivals such as CineYouth at CIFF.

Having grown up in four countries across Europe and Asia, I bring a global perspective to the stories I help tell. My journey began with love of street photography, taking any chance to photograph the places I travel and share their subtle details that make them unique, but I felt the need to tell stories with motion.

I value authenticity. I aim to honor the director’s vision - the core of any project - while bringing my own perspective to the work. I seek to understand what makes their story personal, encouraging them to share their experiences and inspirations behind it. From there, I offer my ideas so our visions can merge and shape the film together. As a cinematographer, my intention is to immerse viewers in a character’s world. Through lighting and camera work, I draw the audience away from their present reality and into the emotional truth of the story. I enjoy telling stories about identity—where someone comes from, what they’ve experienced, and why their journey matters to the viewer.

In recent years, alongside narrative filmmaking, I’ve developed a strong interest in commercial filmmaking, particularly narrative-driven campaigns that connect with audiences on a deeper level.

My approach to pre-production is grounded in preparation and intentionality. I believe that careful planning empowers the crew, creates a collaborative environment, and leaves room for creativity on set.

Collaborative, organized and determined, my goal is to hone your ideas and create remarkable and engaging images for your audience.

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Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent
French
Fluent

Work Experience

Jr Producer at Matchpoint Studios
May 1, 2023 - July 1, 2023
Supported pre-production and lighting setups for interviews, in addition to filming them. Managed data workflows post-shoot and contributed to post-production using Adobe Premiere Pro.
Jr Producer at Matchpoint Studios
May 1, 2024 - Present
Currently assisting with lighting setups and camera operations while managing data workflows and contributing to post-production.
Technician at Advanced Cameras
September 1, 2024 - Present
Efficiently preparing camera packages, testing for suitability, and maintaining inventory while offering helpful service to renters.
Cinematographer / 1st/2nd AC / Gaffer at Freelance
September 1, 2021 - Present
Oversaw pre-production tasks including pitch decks, script breakdowns, and lighting diagrams, shooting various content types with different camera systems.

Education

Bachelor Of Fine Arts in Cinematography at Columbia College Chicago
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education