Frederic Chaignat | Director of Photography | Los Angeles

Originally from the French-speaking part of Switzerland, I moved to the United States to pursue a lifelong ambition within the global film industry. Growing up immersed in a culture that prizes precision and craftsmanship, I developed a foundational appreciation for detail that continues to define my work today. These values serve as the backbone of my dual identity as both a creative artist and a technical expert, ensuring that every frame is as deliberate as it is beautiful.

Currently freelancing throughout the Northeast and across the country, I serve as a Director of Photography, Camera Operator, and Lighting Designer for a wide spectrum of creative ventures. A hallmark of my professional approach is the seamless integration of emerging technologies into the production workflow. I believe that staying at the forefront of technical innovation is essential; it not only expands the limits of visual creativity but also guarantees the efficiency and success of the entire process, from initial concept to final execution.

My experience includes a significant tenure as a Senior Cinematographer at Nestlé USA, where I was a key contributor to the success of "The LEAD," their award-winning internal ad agency. In this role, I spearheaded the end-to-end production of creative content for over 30 iconic U.S. food brands. My responsibilities spanned from collaborating on storyboards and concept development to managing a 10,000 sq. ft. studio and overseeing industry-standard film equipment. I was instrumental in bridging the gap between creative vision and technical reality, particularly in executing complex VFX workflows and adapting high-end content for social media platforms.

Throughout my career, I have maintained a standard of visual excellence by collaborating with diverse crews, colorists, and vendors on both national and international scales. My portfolio reflects a versatile range of formats—including commercial, industrial, documentary, music video, and narrative shorts—and features collaborations with brands such as the History Channel, Ubisoft, Gatorade, Anheuser-Busch, Teva Pharmaceutical, and the California Tourism Board.

Whether I am working on a feature film or a high-tech social media campaign, I remain dedicated to the pursuit of visual storytelling that is technically sophisticated and emotionally resonant.

I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA.