John Samaras

Following in the footsteps of family members, Samaras started in the film business at the age of 15, working his way up through the camera department. In 1986, he moved to New York City where he began working for BBC, PBS, HBO, and Liberty Studios. In preparation for Cinematography, Samaras studied Fine Art Photography by specializing in portraits and experimenting with cross processing and colorizing. From the late '80s to the early '90s, Samaras worked as a Lighting Designer in some of the best clubs in New York City and also designed lights for Off Broadway Theatre, Opera, Mime, and Dance. He also organized and presented visual multimedia shows involving lighting, slides, lasers, and live performers in the dynamic world of rave music. In 1994 he moved to LA and enrolled in the American Film Institute where he graduated with a Master's degree. He currently works as a Cinematographer, residing in Los Angeles with his wife, Michelle and their daughter Elleni Zoe.