DENNIS SCHMELZ/DoP
When did you discover your passion for film? And what was the trigger?
In my childhood, I started producing short movies with friends. I always enjoyed this “filmmaking thing”. In 2013, I finally started my career as freelancer before I did several internships and completed a 3-year education as audiovisual media designer.
When did you realize that you want to be a DoP?
I tried different things in the field of media such as graphics and audio composing. Then, in 2008, I did an internship at a recording studio. I filmed a studio diary for a band that just recorded their new album there. This was when I realized that filming was the part that I enjoyed most.
Can you describe your first project? How did it go? And what would you do different now?
The first big project after I had started my freelancer career was for Interrail / Eurail. I discovered over 30 European countries in one summer and created different short clips of cities and interesting train routes across all of Europe. It was a real challenge but I made it. In hindsight, I would allow more time for it to be more flexible.
Which of your works is your favorite? And why?
Every job is nice in its own way, but I really enjoyed the jobs in big teams. Also, I like travelling a lot, so a combination of both is just perfect for me!
What is the biggest dream for your professional life?
I would love to shoot a long film. I just finished my first 30 minutes of long series pilot which will be pitched for Netflix soon – this was a great experience. What I also love is shooting commercials for interesting brands all over the world.