Hi, I'm Elena Nikolaeva, an award-winning freelance cinematographer passionate about crafting each frame with precision and creativity. I specialize in bringing visions to life through technical expertise in lighting, lenses, and framing, working closely with directors and clients to achieve outstanding results. With a diverse background in complex projects and challenging conditions, I thrive both independently and as part of a team. Over the years, I've taken on various roles from Director of Photography to Camera Assistant, and even Executive Producer, which has enriched my understanding of every part of the filmmaking process. I'm excited to bring my creativity, leadership, and multitasking skills to new and exciting opportunities in the industry.

Elena Nikolaeva

Hi, I'm Elena Nikolaeva, an award-winning freelance cinematographer passionate about crafting each frame with precision and creativity. I specialize in bringing visions to life through technical expertise in lighting, lenses, and framing, working closely with directors and clients to achieve outstanding results. With a diverse background in complex projects and challenging conditions, I thrive both independently and as part of a team. Over the years, I've taken on various roles from Director of Photography to Camera Assistant, and even Executive Producer, which has enriched my understanding of every part of the filmmaking process. I'm excited to bring my creativity, leadership, and multitasking skills to new and exciting opportunities in the industry.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Elena Nikolaeva, an award-winning freelance cinematographer passionate about crafting each frame with precision and creativity. I specialize in bringing visions to life through technical expertise in lighting, lenses, and framing, working closely with directors and clients to achieve outstanding results. With a diverse background in complex projects and challenging conditions, I thrive both independently and as part of a team.

Over the years, I’ve taken on various roles from Director of Photography to Camera Assistant, and even Executive Producer, which has enriched my understanding of every part of the filmmaking process. I’m excited to bring my creativity, leadership, and multitasking skills to new and exciting opportunities in the industry.

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Language

Bulgarian
Fluent
English
Advanced
French
Intermediate

Work Experience

Director of Photography at Freelance
January 1, 2013 - Present
Planned, composed, and framed each frame applying technical aspects of light, lenses, film, and filters to achieve the vision set by directors and clients. Worked on diverse projects including shorts, documentaries, feature films, TV series, music videos, and commercials.
Camera Assistant at Freelance
January 1, 2013 - Present
Supported cinematographers on various film, television, and commercial projects, assisting with camera operation and equipment management.
Director, Executive Producer at Freelance
January 1, 2017 - Present
Directed and produced various projects, including music videos, theatre play teasers, shorts, and BTS videos for clients and artistic works.
Script Supervisor at Freelance
January 1, 2021 - Present
Supervised scripts on feature films and TV series to ensure continuity and script adherence during filming.
TV Host at Evrokom Bulgaria
December 31, 2007 - July 30, 2025
Hosted television programs engaging with audiences, enhancing presentation and communication skills.

Education

Bachelor of Film & TV Cinematography at National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts, Sofia, Bulgaria
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2017
High School Diploma at Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, French Language High School, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
January 1, 2007 - December 31, 2011

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Travel & Hospitality, Government