I’m Zafer and I shoot movies and TV and stuff…
As a kid, I knew I wanted to work in Film/TV and have worked in the field since then. Early on in my career, I co-founded a production company, Backseat Conceptions. For 15 years, we produced a wide variety of projects, from national tours to broadcast commercials to independent films. We also ran an annual film festival for seven years, and it was even held at a theater we owned. At the same time, I had been training in the lighting department and working as a gaffer on indie features. Eventually, I started shooting non-fiction/reality shows and have to-date worked as Director of Photography for shows on all the big cable networks. I’ve also DPed a few features and short films in the those years.
Having come up in the lighting department, my eye for lighting is certainly one of my strengths as a DP. I have developed a style of my own and I know what it takes to make a shot look right, whether it’s a full-blown set-up on a sound stage or maximizing natural light on location.
Likewise, I am also very resourceful on set. Owning my own production company and starting out on DIY projects has made me very conscious of coming in on-time and under-budget. I learned how to make a scene look good without too much fuss. This can be useful in any situation, but particularly in non-fiction scenarios where moments really count. That said, I am experienced with and capable of big shoots with full crews. I know how to use a 10-ton grip truck, I just don’t always need it.
All this experience doesn't mean I am stuck in my ways. On the contrary. I am always learning about new techniques and technologies. As a result, I am truly comfortable with any camera or lighting system of today. Though it’s a bit of a lost art, I am even capable of shooting on film.
As I also have experience in other departments, particularly Production, I am able to visualize the bigger picture and take a more rounded look at any situation on set. I know when to choose my battles, because I can see the end goal of a shoot and the camera department’s part in implementing it. I believe this makes me a worthy collaborator and an efficient DP.
I have also developed a management style of my own. I know how to run my department and how to get the best out of each person. I like to lead by example and I try to inspire my crew to do their very best each day. I daresay, most who work with me have a positive experience. My Rolodex of loyal crew members speaks to this.
Lastly, my core strength is my total commitment to the craft. Filmmaking is the only thing I have ever really wanted to do, and I bring my passion for the industry and the art form to every set I’m on.
These days, I’m looking to work on any number of documentary and narrative projects, especially if it’s a Western.
I currently live in the desert outside Los Angeles with my girlfriend and four cats.