I am a cinematographer! I graduated from the AFI Conservatory Cinematography Graduate Program in 2022. I am interested in boundary-pushing films. Lately I’ve been thinking that in moments of simple mundanity is where we’ll find the most beauty, and that sometimes the truest truths are best told through suspensions of reality - and maybe a little magic ✨
I got my start chasing adventure all over the world as a Local 600 Camera Assistant - swimming 16mm mags to set on a volcanic island in the Caribbean, creating a VR world blending past and present on the beaches of Normandy, building underwater camera rigs in wetsuits in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, and so many other adventures. Working as a chemical-mixer in the darkrooms at the International Center of Photography in New York City, I developed (couldn’t help it) my skill as a film photographer, while also working in the camera departments of many productions including Get Out, Russian Doll, After Yang, and Search Party. Most recently I pulled focus on the 16mm films A Different Man and Dandelion. I then transitioned from camera assistant to cinematographer, bringing with me a strong technical skillset, a nuanced aesthetic style, and an ever-important twinkle in my eye ✨
My AFI thesis film Cherubs was selected for the prestigious CAA’s Moebius Showcase in 2023. My narrative cinematography work has screened at Austin Film Fest, Brooklyn Film Fest, AFI Fest, Tallgrass, Oldenburg, Aesthetica, and more. My music video work has been featured in Nylon, The Fader, Ladygunn, and Live Nation's Ones To Watch. My commercial clients include Nike, Quince, Dicks Sporting Goods, and Parents Magazine.
When not making movies, I am a mountain climber, pie contest winner, terrible banjo player, one-time touring biker, and over-enthusiastic gardener. I love to sit around a fire and chat with a glass of whiskey (and sometimes with people).
Give me a shout: oliviakimmel@gmail.com