Growing up in an artistically enriched environment, with my mother an abstract painter and my father a writer, allowed me to view the world through an imaginative and creative lens. This early exposure to art sparked a visual curiosity that influences the way I approach my filmmaking today.
As a Bay Area-based cinematographer, I am deeply immersed in both the creative and collaborative aspects of film production. At UC Berkeley, I have worked on numerous films in the Cinematic Arts & Production Studios as a Director of Photography, Assistant Camera, and Production Designer. These experiences have strengthened my ability to lead creative teams and collaborate in fast-paced environments.
Beyond UC Berkeley, I work as a Production Assistant for independent filmmakers across the Bay Area. This past summer (2025), I attended the UCLA Film and Television Summer Institute, where I collaborated on two short films as a 1st Assistant Camera and part of the Grip and Electric team. Working on professional sound stages, as well as learning directly from industry professionals, further expanded my understanding of industry-standard lighting and camera equipment.
I am looking forward to continuing to develop my visual voice, building on set experience, and pursuing a career in cinematography, where I am able to tell stories from the same creative curiosity that sparked in me from a young age.
I am looking forward to continuing to develop my visual voice, building on set experience, and pursuing a career in cinematography, where I am able to tell stories from the same creative curiosity that sparked in me from a young age.
ava.kurapka@gmail.com