Drew Maw

Here’s a bit of info about me and my director of photography philosophies, as it pertains to the business of film production, the professionalism of myself and my crew, and essentially my mission statement of management style, to best serve you, your production team, and the successful completion of your film. In the past, I’ve written something humorous here, but I continue to be asked deeper questions by directors and producers, so I’ve decided to allow this information to be an introduction to “what you are getting” when hiring me as your DP.

First and foremost, I understand that film production is business driven, and with that comes certain expectations: a high degree of professionalism on set, effective communication, and the synergy of working relationships of those working above and below the line; this, with achievable and acceptable goals and outcomes, is all essential for completing a ‘successful film.’ I strive to treat the film set as if it’s a place of business. I also understand that film is an art and a creative process, but I don’t let that rule my emotions on or off the set. My role as a DP is to serve the director and producers, and I manage my crew accordingly. I don’t let my vision as a cinematographer trump the visions of you and your team. When appropriate, I offer suggestions based on my expertise, but as a DP, as part of my role, I must believe in and abide by the leadership and the decisions of the director, and be a sponge to his/her vision. There again, I pride myself in creating an environment that reflects the expectations of the director and producers. Some directors and producers like a more relaxed set, some are much more strict, but either way, I can adapt to suite your needs. I’m not married to one philosophy or another, and this goes for my crew as well, but I enforce my crew appropriately. I hire my crew based on the same guidelines I’ve given above. I only choose those who’ll reflect that high degree of professionalism (e.g. set protocol, clothing attire, professional communication).

About me:

Drew Maw has his MFA in cinematography (Fall ’10) from the Academy of Art University. He currently lives in Hollywood and is being mentored by famed DP, Eric Steelberg (DP who shot Juno, 500 Days of Summer, Up in the Air) and will begin a mentorship with David Mullen, ASC (United States of Tara, Big Love, The Astronaut Farmer) this Fall. Over the course of 2010, he’s shot nearly 10 short films, two of which are going to Sundance, and one that was awarded Best Cinematography at this year’s 2010 168 hour film festival in Los Angeles.

Awards:

Best Cinematography, Los Angeles 168 Film Festival, 2010

Best Cinematography, Exposure Film Festival, 2008

Education:

LA Film Studies Center, Alumnus (Film Production)

Simpson University, Alumnus (Communications, B.A.)

Academy of Art University, graduating Fall 2010 (Cinematography, minor in screenwriting, MFA)