michael morlan, austin texas, cinematographer, director of photography, D.P., gaffer, camera operator

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Michael Morlan . Biography


Thanks for visiting.

I am a director of photography and storyteller.  My greatest joy is helping a talented director realize and enhance their vision.  Be it a clever thirty-second spot or ninety-minute narrative, I am always seeking to discover and express that which connects us as humans.

Since 2005, I have finished ten feature films including four as director of photography and three as gaffer/lighting director.  My credits include numerous commercials, music videos, short form narratives, and the 2008 Oscar nominated documentary “Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience.”

I got my start in production in 1988 as a 3D animator for a large architectural firm in Houston where I received an intense introduction to light, form, color, and composition.

  Michael Morlan - DP 

I moved to Austin in 1995 to work as a writer, director, and animator for Origin Systems, a computer game developer and got serious about building a narrative film career in 1996 when I attended a local film production seminar and lit my first 16mm film.  In January 2006, I retired from the game industry and became a freelance director of photography full time.


What my creative partners say:

"Michael, thanks for all the hard work and expertise on Shroud. We have received endless praise for the professional lighting evident in our first film, an achievement I lay squarely at your feet. Thanks."

David Jetre - director "Shroud"

"Michael Morlan proved invaluable as a director of photography on three commercials, as well as assisting with the writing process, post production, and visual FX.  Having his own equipment company (Austin Film Tools) proved an added value. The shoot was a challenging one, involving multi-camera shoots on a very aggressive shooting schedule, and Michael provided the highest degree of professionalism and dedication throughout.  The end result was a very happy client."

Jeffrey Travis - director "IKnowWare commercial spots"

"Thank you, once again, for your talent, time and presence on set this weekend.  Grace and efficient expertise is why you've got the rock star word on the street!"

Jolyn Janis - producer "El Coyote"

“Thank you for the outstanding job you did on the “Panic Division” music video shoot. Your knowledge and effort was much appreciated and you will definitely be hearing from me about future projects.  In fact, you'll be my first choice on every gig I pick up in the future and I'll be giving your name to many others. You're top notch.”

Scott McCauley - director of photography Panic Division music video

"Michael Morlan is many things: sensitive, quirky, introspective, incredibly smart, and easy to work with.  Of all the folks we interviewed to DP my film, he was the only one who really 'got it' as far as the look and mood I wanted to convey.  Michael has a great ability to sense what a director wants.  He can light a set beautifully and quickly, and is sensitive to the actor’s needs as well.  Michael is truly passionate about his craft, and was willing to go the extra mile for my film."

Jennifer Harlow Reeb - director "In Between"

“I've worked with Michael several times now - once while he was a gaffer on a music video I produced, and twice when I was a still photographer on set (with Michael as the gaffer on one and director/D.P. of the other). His knowledge and expertise is always first class and he demands consistent, professional results from his crews. He's always willing to expend the extra effort to get the footage looking perfect. I highly recommend him for any project.”

Wylie Maercklein

"Michael understood my need to shoot lean and he made that happen.  His pre-production preparation was thorough and timely.  He informed me early on as to the equipment he would need and he met with me to discuss each shot.  The shoot went smoothly and the actors commented on how well organized we were.  Much of that was due to the thoroughness of our pre-production discussions and to Michael's professionalism."

Steve Warren - director "The Hypocrite"

"You were an invaluable asset to the shoot. I can say without a doubt that the film would not have been competed without you. Thanks Mike, for your hard work and sense of humor. Keep in touch."

Kristoffer May - D.P. - "Sentimental Engine Slayer"

"I cannot thank you enough for your hard work. Pass this thanks on to your crew. You motherfu**ers rocked. I'll get down that way again soon and you will be my first call. Thank you, brother. I couldn't have done it without you and your merry band of hoodlums."

Jordan Boston Jones - D.P. "Dishing it Out" Food Network Pilot

"Michael, this is just a quick note to let you know that I appreciated your excellent work as director of photography for my film Sticks & Stones.  Your knowledge, technical skills and professionalism came through with flying colors as evidenced by the piece."

Arnie Reyes - director "Sticks & Stones"

"Michael was prompt, courteous, and a great listener - a very patient, cool and collected guy on set. His technical grasp of his craft is remarkable, and it shows in his work. He can light a set wonderfully, and QUICKLY. Michael also possesses a deep-rooted respect for the actor's process.  Job well done!"

Mark Reeb - producer "In Between"

“Michael Morlan is a very talented Director/D.P. that I have worked with many times. The level of skill, knowledge, and creative genius that he brings to the table gives each project he touches the ability to be highly successful.  Michael is one of the key members of The Wolfpack Film Group and he is valued by me and many of the other members of the group as an invaluable contributor. I always enjoy working with Michael, and look forward to many more projects in the near future!”

Robin Blesh - producer

What my teams say:

"I had the greatest time working on your crew! Thank you SO much for letting me be a part of the project. You were so incredibly patient and kind to everyone even though we were on such a tight deadline. I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed being a part of this process."

Dorothy Ibes - Grip - 48-hour Film Project 2005

"Michael,  I had a blast working with you.  You took a great deal of time and effort with a small scene.  Of course, dying from drowning was of the utmost importance!  I can't tell you how much I appreciated all your help and your professionalism.  The few other films I've done could not measure up to what I learned from you and the rest of the cast and crew.  I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to work with you."

San Lorenz - Actress - "Deadly Obsession"

"I got the job and I really appreciate your recommendation. You are by far the best boss I have ever worked for and I just really enjoy working under your tutelage. I know it sounds like I am just blowing smoke, but I truly mean it."

Joseph "Rocky" Stone - "Anything For Now"

"As usual it's been a pleasure working with you. You and Iskra are by far the best boss tandem I've ever had - always teaching, always encouraging. I feel that after completing ATFN I am now ten times the Grip/Electric I was when I started."

Rob McGreevy - "Anything For Now"


on the set:

michael morlan, director of photography, on set of Culebra Story
photo by Joseph Garza

Michael Morlan (right) sets up a shot with camera operator, Mark Vittek on the set of "Stairway to Heaven"
photo by John Sommer

Michael Morlan (right) directs Jonathan Boatwright on the set of "Stairway to Heaven"
photo by John Sommer

Michael Morlan, camera operator, on the set of "Double Tap: Rewind"

Michael Morlan, director of photography, on the set of "Goebbels Project"

Michael Morlan, director of photography, on the set of "Coup d Etat"

Michael Morlan, camera operator, on the set of "Double Tap: Rewind"


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