Ethan Schaeffer
Curriculum Vitae
Director of Photography

Enthusiastic and creative DP, eager to contribute to team success through hard work, attention to detail and excellent organizational skills. Motivated to learn, grow and excel in all aspects of film-making.

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Accomplishments

Selected
  • Lead the entire camera department of Dubai Film LLC, opening up my skills to managing a team and more high-profile task along with the extensive training and knowledge development surrounding remote head systems.
  • Helped create viral Glambot films under the direction of Cole Walliser - the founder of the concept on the Hollywood Red Carpets.
  • Made the first step to pursue a career in the film industry and move abroad at the age of 19 and now having over a decade of experience.
  • Worked in the video playback department and as a Digital Imaging Technician on multiple big budget Hollywood feature films such as War Machine starring Brad Pitt and The Misfits starring Pierce Brosnan.

Work History

2025/07 – Current

Director of Photography / Camera Operator

Self, Dubai, UAE
  • Building an independent reel as Director of Photography and camera operator across short films, music videos and commercial spec work.
  • Operating camera on freelance productions around Dubai, developing versatility across multiple camera systems and lens packages.
  • Collaborating directly with emerging directors and producers to shape visual language from script through post.
  • Continuing to invest in personal gear and workflow to stay current with evolving camera, lighting and grading technology.
2022/12 – 2025/07

Head of Camera Department / Director of Photography

Dubai Film LLC, Dubai, UAE
  • Directed the creative and technical execution of all visual production as the Director of Photography of in-house productions.
  • Implemented an extensive digital system to manage and track equipment for rentals and inventory.
  • Collaborated with directors to establish the visual aesthetic, making key decisions on lighting, shot composition, and camera movement.
  • Managed the departmental budget by effectively allocating resources to reduce costs and improve overall efficiency.
2020/07 – 2022/12

Company Owner / Technical Manager

Digital Armoury LLC, Dubai, UAE
  • Gathered requirements and maintained communication between project teams, internal clients and external stakeholders.
  • Managed deliverable estimates, negotiated resource conflicts and allocated resources.
  • Automated manual workflows to improve audit controls and productivity.
  • Supported company goals through careful reinvestment of profits.
2016/03 – 2020/07

Digital Imaging Technician

Self, Dubai, UAE
  • Managed the entire data pipeline and delivery schedule based on specific post-production and editorial needs.
  • Examined live image signals to determine defects such as aliasing, motion artifacts and electronic failure of camera sensors.
  • Displayed originality while utilizing color grading software to help directors of photography create a unique product.
  • Utilized data management software to perform QC, checksum analysis and metadata extracts.
2014/07 – 2016/08

Video Playback Operator

Self, Dubai, UAE
  • Identified video signal issues, analyzed the signal flow and provided solutions to format issues.
  • Troubleshoot uncompressed wireless video transmission signal issues.
  • Improved operations through consistent hard work and dedication.
  • Calibrated video monitors via monitor functionality and external devices.

Education

High School Diploma
Smithfield High School – Cairns, QLD, Australia
2004/02 – 2009/10

Certifications

  • Carl Zeiss Lens Servicing Certificate2013/04
  • S4 & 5i Cookie Lens Servicing Certificate2012/10

Interests

TravelingPhotographyComputer CodingColor Grading
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