MURAT OZDEMIR
Queens
Summary
Experienced Photo Studio Manager and Lighting Director with a robust background in overseeing complex photo and video shoots, including commercial, cinematic, and large-scale productions. Proven expertise as a gaffer and lighting director, ensuring optimal lighting and visual quality. Adept at team leadership, project coordination, and innovative problem-solving in fast-paced environments. Passionate about delivering high-quality visual content and contributing to the success of every production.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Lighting Director
Photographers/Videographers
New York
2016 - Current
- Designed lighting setups for various photography and videography projects.
- Collaborated with creative teams to define lighting concepts and moods.
- Adjusted lighting in real-time to enhance visual storytelling during recordings.
- Conducted pre-production meetings to plan lighting strategies effectively.
- Set up color filters, gels, dimmers, reflectors, gobos, and other elements to produce desired effects in a timely manner.
- Developed and implemented a variety of creative lighting designs for various types of performances.
Gaffer
Photographers/Videographers
New York
2012 - Current
- Set up lighting equipment for photo and video shoots.
- Collaborated with photographers to achieve desired lighting effects.
- Adapted to changing conditions and requirements during shoots.
- Supervised a team of electricians and other crew members responsible for setting up and maintaining lighting equipment.
- Provided technical advice regarding use of various types of lights available on set.
- Efficiently coordinated multiple tasks at once without compromising quality.
Photo Assistant
Photographers
New York
2007 - Current
- Assisted photographers in setting up equipment for various shoots.
- Provided technical assistance to photographers while they are shooting photos or videos.
- Monitored the quality of pictures taken during shoots and made adjustments as needed.
- Troubleshot various issues that arose during shoots such as camera malfunctions or lighting problems.
Studio Manager
Sun Studio NY
New York
05.2004 - 06.2007
- Managed daily operations of photo studio, ensuring smooth workflow.
- Supervised photography team, providing guidance and support on projects.
- Developed training materials for new staff on studio procedures and tools.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their needs and ensure satisfaction.
- Collaborated with other professionals within the industry when necessary.
- Conducted regular meetings with team members to discuss progress on projects.
Equipment operator
Pier 59 Studios
New York
03.2003 - 05.2004
Equipment Operator
Milk Studios
New York
03.2002 - 03.2003
- Operated various equipment to support studio production activities.
- Maintained machinery and tools for optimal performance and safety.
- Learned about new equipment and related attachments while maintaining knowledge of items used daily to meet job requirements.
Education
Physical Education - Sports Science
Marmara University
Istanbul,Turkey06-1999
Skills
- Lighting design
- Equipment setup
- Real-time adjustments
- Color filtering
- Visual storytelling
- Team collaboration
- Client communication
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Creative thinking
- Time management
- Equipment operation
- Team leadership
- Product photography
- Lighting techniques
- Portrait photography
- Lighting expert
- Commercial photography
- Fashion photography
- Studio management
- Equipment preparation
Timeline
Studio Manager
Sun Studio NY
05.2004 - 06.2007
Equipment operator
Pier 59 Studios
03.2003 - 05.2004
Equipment Operator
Milk Studios
03.2002 - 03.2003
Lighting Director
Photographers/Videographers
2016 - Current
Gaffer
Photographers/Videographers
2012 - Current
Photo Assistant
Photographers
2007 - Current
Physical Education - Sports Science
Marmara University