Erik Zabielski
Guelph,Canada
Summary
A passionate and dedicated storyteller focused on crafting compelling, high-quality narratives and specializing in film production, with a strong commitment to efficiency and ensuring smooth operations on set to maximize every opportunity. Experienced in professional on-set productions with Paradigm Studios and Hungry Boy Productions, as well as student film work, offering a well-rounded understanding of the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the industry. Skilled in taking on the challenges of production while maintaining a positive, solution-driven attitude, always striving for excellence in every project.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Cinematographer
Haunt Manor
10.2024 - 12.2024
- Collaborated with the client to storyboard and develop the visual vision for multiple commercials promoting their Niagara-based business.
- Shot "walk and talk" sequences and beauty shots, capturing key moments to be used in promotional materials.
- Worked closely with a team member to execute the client's creative vision and deliver high-quality commercial content.
- Successfully ensured the final visuals aligned with the client’s branding and business objectives to maximize impact.
Director of Photography, Colourist
The Losers | a Short Film
11.2023 - 04.2024
- Led visual direction and collaborated with the director to establish the narrative style and mood of "The Losers."
- Designed and executed lighting setups, optimized camera composition, and managed a team to ensure seamless production workflows.
- Assisted in selecting lenses, camera angles, and techniques, maintaining visual continuity throughout the shooting process.
- Graded footage as the Colourist, balancing color, contrast, and saturation to create a cohesive, polished final product.
Director of Photography, Colourist
Behind The Screams | a Short Film
09.2023 - 04.2024
- Collaborated closely with the director to craft a visual narrative that translated the story’s themes into compelling imagery.
- Developed and executed a comprehensive lighting and camera strategy to capture authentic moments and enhance emotional depth.
- Served as the Colourist, grading footage to balance color, contrast, and saturation, ensuring a cohesive and visually striking look.
- Maintained strong visual continuity throughout the project, overseeing both cinematography and post-production.
Laboratory Assistant
Niagara College
09.2023 - 04.2024
- Collaborated with professors in BRTF Film Production, providing support in equipment orientation and safety training for new students
- Actively contributed to student film sets, gaining hands-on experience in diverse roles
- Managed and curated content for BRTF’s social media account, showcased at @nc_film on Instagram
- Trained to teach:
- RED Scarlet and RED Scarlet-W Cinema Camera with included kit packages
- Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera with included kit packages
- Black Magic URSA Cinema Camera with included kit packages
- DJI Ronin2 Gimbal Combo
- 833,633 Sound Devices
- MixPre3 Sound Device
- Lighting, Electrics, Gaffing gear: ARRI, AMARAN, TITAN, DIVA, etc
- Grip Iron and Dolly gear
1st Assistant Camera
Lay Me Down | a Short Film
01.2024 - 02.2024
- Supported the camera department by setting up and maintaining equipment, ensuring proper lens and filter selection.
- Assisted with lighting setups to achieve desired visual effects and collaborated on shot compositions with the Director of Photography.
- Maintained a clean and organized workflow, contributing to efficient on-set operations.
- Gained hands-on experience in camera operation and equipment management during the production of a student short film.
Gaffer/Key Grip
MRP Studios
01.2024 - 01.2024
- Collaborated with the Director of Photography to design and implement tailored lighting setups, enhancing scene depth and atmosphere.
- Utilized a variety of lighting tools and techniques to achieve specific visual outcomes for each project.
- Managed rigging and set construction, ensuring safe and effective positioning of equipment.
- Coordinated closely with the crew to maintain efficiency, safety, and effective communication in fast-paced production environments.
Gaffer
GIANT Creative
12.2023 - 12.2023
- Designed and executed the lighting plan to enhance visual storytelling for a McDonald's franchise advertisement.
- Collaborated with the Director of Photography and production team to determine and implement scene-specific lighting needs.
- Managed lighting equipment setup, power distribution, and alignment with the overall aesthetic vision.
- Maintained a safe and efficient set environment, adapting quickly to changes in shooting conditions.
Education
Advanced Diploma - Broadcasting - Radio, Television, and Film
Niagara College
Welland, ON04-2024
Skills
- Avid Media Composer
- DaVinci Resolve
- Adobe After Effects
- Avid Pro Tools
- Black Magic Cinema Camera
- RED Camera
- DSLR Camera
- Team Work
- Initiative
- Creativity
- Interpersonal Skills
- Resilience
Timeline
Cinematographer
Haunt Manor
10.2024 - 12.2024
1st Assistant Camera
Lay Me Down | a Short Film
01.2024 - 02.2024
Gaffer/Key Grip
MRP Studios
01.2024 - 01.2024
Gaffer
GIANT Creative
12.2023 - 12.2023
Director of Photography, Colourist
The Losers | a Short Film
11.2023 - 04.2024
Director of Photography, Colourist
Behind The Screams | a Short Film
09.2023 - 04.2024
Laboratory Assistant
Niagara College
09.2023 - 04.2024
Advanced Diploma - Broadcasting - Radio, Television, and Film
Niagara College
Similar Profiles
CHIARA OLIVEIRACHIARA OLIVEIRA
Event Volunteer at THE HAUNT IN THE PARK October 2023Event Volunteer at THE HAUNT IN THE PARK October 2023
G. Kael StolteG. Kael Stolte
Kitchen Staff at Goat Haunt SaloonKitchen Staff at Goat Haunt Saloon
Emily BloomEmily Bloom
Ball Superviser and Sponcer at Fear Expo and Haunt conBall Superviser and Sponcer at Fear Expo and Haunt con