I am currently not accepting new clients or projects.
I AM CINEMA
The Only Constant... Is Change
Dear friends and creative collaborators,
Throughout my career, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work on projects that not only challenged me technically but also ignited my creative spirit. I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with extraordinary teams in Florida—teams that soon became some of my closest friends—whose passion and vision created unforgettable moments and fueled my love for storytelling. The chemistry we shared was a perfect storm in visual storytelling, and since then, I have never found its equal.
Lately, I’ve found that same creative fire diminishing behind the camera—both in my work as a cinematographer and a photographer. The joy and satisfaction I once felt are fading, leaving me yearning to rediscover what it means to truly love what I do.
This shift parallels my decision last year to retire as an instructor. Nearly 30 years of teaching tactical CQC—once a role that ignited my drive and demanded relentless commitment—eventually left me feeling more like a caretaker than an innovator, teaching me that even longstanding pursuits can lose their spark when they no longer resonate with who you are.
With that in mind, I’m taking a sabbatical from cinematography and photography—a chance to step back, reflect on my journey, and explore new creative avenues free of the pressures of client projects. For now, I won’t be accepting any new work as I focus on reawakening and redirecting my passion.
I truly believe it’s the journey—not the destination—that shapes who we are. I’m not certain where this new path will lead me, which direction I’ll take, or whether I will return. The thrill and mystery of uncharted roads call to me far more than the comfort of familiarity. As J.R.R. Tolkien reminds us, ‘Not all who wander are lost.’ Perhaps it’s time for a new adventure in life.
At this point, if I return to client work, it will most likely be exclusively for projects that genuinely align with my passion and vision. That said, if the right opportunity arises—a project from someone or a passionate team of creatives who share the same drive and love for storytelling that I experienced with those incredible teams in Florida—I might just be open to it.
Thank you for your support and understanding as I navigate this next chapter in my creative journey.
Take care,
Nathan
I AM CINEMA
CINEMATOGPRAPHY
Cinematography is my passion. Despite being a combat instructor, adrenaline enthusiast, and someone who works with Tigers and Lions... I'm a nerd by nature and see Cinematography as one of the most diverse and expressive and powerful forms of artistry I can imagine.
Some guys like sports cars... I like cameras and lenses! I'm one of those guys who gets excited and full of energy when we "get that shot", and I do whatever it takes to make it happen.
Whether on a Music Video or a Film, or a live event like a Wedding, or with a client for their business testimonial or commercial, I go to extremes to bring to life what my director or client envisioned.
VIDEO SERVICESPHOTOGRAPHY
I am a "Cinematic Photographer". My goal is to create visual art in the essence of movie cinema, making it look as if I had captured a single frame from a film, freezing that moment and emotion. My best shots tell an entire story in just one frame of action.
As a photographer, I don't enjoy images or shots that look forced, posed, or awkward. A great photograph has to have more than just proper focusing, lighting, and composition... Anyone can do that. If my photography tells a story or evokes an emotion, then I feel accomplished.
While I have my own personal style of photography, I am available for hire and can work within the needs of my clients styles and personal tastes.
PHOTO SERVICESWisconsin Based Photographer & Cinematographer
"I Am Cinema" base of operations is in Johnson Creek, WI, though I do work throughout the state and anywhere my clients require. Just minutes away from Oconomowoc, Lake Mills, Watertown, and Jefferson, and about 45 minutes from Madison, I'm very easy to find.
I've been a professional photographer and cinematographer since 2008. After several years of working in films in New Orleans and Southeast Florida, I eventually returned to WI due to my involvement with Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue in Rock Springs. I've been an active sponsor and volunteer with them since early 2006.
While working with Tigers, Lions, and other Big Cats is wild to say the least. Being a Cinematographer and Photographer is still what gets my adrenaline going!
Cinematic Stylization
I offer a wide variety of professional services in photography and video production. After viewing my website, I hope you'll consider my studio for your personal, business, or creative needs.
- Cinematic Photography | Video Production
- Testimonial Video | Recruitment Video | Training Video
- Music Video | Indie Film | Full Feature Film
- Senior Portraits | Lifestyle Portraits | Pet Portraits
- Boudoir Photography | Couples Photography
- Real-Estate Photography | Real-Estate Videography
- Team Photos | Sports and Athletics Photography
- Aerial Drone Photography | Aerial Drone Cinematography
- Steadicam Operator | Director of Photography
STORY DRIVEN VISUALS
An image without emotion has no value. Beyond lighting, framing, and composition, there is the story told within the image. My goal is to show your story, and capture the emotion it evokes.
As a professional Cinematographer and Photographer, I provide studio quality work with every client and project custom to your own specific and unique needs.
I take my work very seriously, though I love to have serious fun as well. If you're looking for a cookie cutter photographer or videographer, I might not be the guy you're looking for. Life is Art, and Art is Life. Let's enjoy our work together, have fun, get creative and inspired, and create something catered specifically for you or your project!
CREATIVE APPROACH
I don't just point and shoot video or photos, and I don't take a cookie-cutter approach with my clients.
Your story is unique and personal. I take your personality, your lifestyle, your interests, and your goals into careful consideration with every project and every client.
PROFESSIONAL GEAR
I Am Cinema offers a fully equipped studio utilizing only professional grade equipment for Video, Photo, Lighting, and Audio.
Your story deserves the highest quality of production. With Full Frame Cameras capable of shooting UHD RAW Images, and 4K & 8K Uncompressed Video, your project will receive a Hollywood scale production at an affordable rate.
CINEMATIC VISUALS
My goal is to create immersive visuals that "show a story", evoke emotion, and suspend belief.
I have created my own signature style of Cinematography and Photography. Beyond the technical skill of it all, it is first and foremost, a form of art, that chases light, and plays with shadows, contrast, and composition.
