Paul M. Zenk, Cinematographer

At 12 years of age I stood in the Musee du Louvre in Paris France memorized by the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. At 15 years of age I traveled Europe alone, via Euro Rail. By the time he was 16 I had seen 85% of Europe nearly the entire Middle East and significant part of the Soviet block countries Including Russia & East Germany. Both my Mom and Dad loved going to museums, so in every country we visited the most interesting and famous places. Taking pictures the whole time. I had a little black and white camera and tons of little film cans. I bet you remember those.

I always wanted to do something with film, even when I was a kid it was all ready my life. I had a wet and dry darkroom my dad helped me build. Really cool parents I must say. I worked on the school year book for 5 years from middle school through high school.  About the time I was finishing up high school in Springfield Virgina I figured out that cinematography was the plan, and off I went to Montana State University to get my degree in F&TV Production with an emphasis in cinematography. My dad bless his heart bought me a 16mm Bolex camera on a spur of the moment in a little film store in Washington DC. Used it all through college.

After graduating from Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana, with a B.S. in Film and Television Production, I moved to Hollywood, California, primarily working as a Director of Photography.

Working on hundreds of projects throughout my career, I have a wide-ranging breadth of experience and knowledge as a Director of Photography on both small-scale productions as well as large, multimillion-dollar projects.  These projects frequently require different skill sets, and through necessity, I learned these skill sets, which have added to the production value of each project that I have undertaken.

Hollywood allowed me to learn from the very best in the film and television industry.  Hollywood is a place where production techniques and equipment technology are epitomized, allowing for the best possible learning, one in this business could effectively put to use. Because of these rare, yet fundamental learning experiences, I have been able to gain a knowledge of the film and TV industry, which has by far been the best training ground to take from and apply toward any job.

Whether it was filming on a set in Hollywood for the latest and must-have products for sale or making my way deep into the Everglades of Florida for “The Natures Series” produced by PBS, lighting and cinematography has become a way of life and a passion for which I strive to craft and create a fresh look for each project.

Thanks for reading
Paul.

 

Sean McCulley
Owner of Mudturtle Media, LLC
Paul is the best cinematographer I have ever worked with. When he is on a shoot, I feel a certain level of comfort knowing that his professionalism, vision and creativity will help me achieve my own vision for each of my productions.

 

Joel Bailey
Producer/Director | Digital Content Manager
I have utilized Paul’s superb services numerous times over the years. As a Director of Photography he approaches his craft with enthusiasm, creativity, and professionalism. I would highly recommend him to others who are seeking such services.

 

Dave Losko
Producer / Director / Sun River Films
I have worked with Paul on Location and he is very professional and gets the job done. Very detail oriented.

 

Eileen Clemens
Account Associate – Employee Benefits Coordinator at Alliant Insurance Services
Paul Zenk has been supporting AT&T Media Productions with large scale multi-camera webcasts and video productions for the Chairman and CEO of AT&T, as well as for many other leadership events.  His expertise and video production skills will continue to be an integral asset to AT&T to help meet the increasing demand for our services in the years to come.  I truly value our professional vendor relationship and would recommend him for professional live and on demand video productions of any scale to meet your requirements.

 

Rich DuBose
Director, Church Support Services at Pacific Union Conference
Paul is a stickler for detail and does an excellent job with shooting and editing video. His specialty is lighting, and he clearly understands what it takes to set the mood for the best shots. I appreciate his flexibility and his willingness to work as a team member. He has worked extensively with Hollywood and understands how to pull the various pieces together to produce excellent videos.

Paul is a true professional!