ETHAN SHOTZ
Director of Photography
Ethan Shotz is an award winning cinematographer who crafts stories that explore the depth of human emotion and the quest for light amidst darkness. His filmmaking journey took a significant turn in 2009 after the loss of his friend Ben to suicide, a pivotal moment that underscored for Ethan the transformative power of narrative. Committed to turning grief into inspiration, he aims to shift negative perceptions to positive reflections through his visual storytelling.
Drawing from the visual poetry of films like "The Tree of Life" and "Antichrist," Ethan balances technical skill with naturalistic lighting to reveal the essence of the real within the hyperreal. His intimate connection with the bright, local landscape inspires him to seek out the shadows, using them to sculpt light in ways that add depth and atmosphere to his films, emphasizing mood and emotion. Ethan strives to capture the essence of his subjects, embracing them in their authentic form, without judgment or alteration.
Ethan's technical prowess extends beyond lighting and cinematography. He is proficient in the latest video production technologies, from cutting-edge cameras to advanced editing software, ensuring his work remains at the forefront of content marketing trends. His ability to integrate story, structure, and humor into his projects, coupled with his keen eye for detail, allows him to create compelling, high-quality media that resonates with audiences. Whether working on small independent projects or large-scale productions, Ethan's dedication to his craft and his desire to make a meaningful impact are evident in every frame.
As Ethan continues to navigate his career, he remains focused on elevating each project with his unique blend of artistic vision and technical expertise. Through his films, Ethan not only entertains but also inspires, inviting viewers to find their own light in the darkness.
The Lens
Ethan was introduced to me through my sister, who knew him through photography circles. We didn’t know each other before Season 3. That first trip? We were just two guys hoping we’d get along. What he didn’t expect was meeting a guy named Loco on Day One and filming a failed polygraph situation that was anything but comfortable.
Since then, Ethan’s been with me on almost every trip. He’s shown up in big ways, even when things got tense. Like the time I almost got arrested for how I checked my gun at the airport. Ethan was ready to stay behind in Detroit to help instead of boarding the flight without me. That told me everything I needed to know.
He’s loyal, sharp, and brings a lot of quirky energy to the crew, but there’s no one I’d rather have behind the camera when things get real.
- JAMES BAYSINGER