I’m an award-winning cinematographer skilled in crafting vivid frames for nonfiction and narrative films, TV series, commercials and music videos. I work closely with directors to develop a unique visual language for each project I lens, and lead the camera department with enthusiasm for innovation and collaboration. I’m committed to maintaining a thoughtful and efficient cinematographic approach while adapting to the needs of a scene and budget – whether on set in LA or camped out in an Alaskan village.

I have comprehensive and scalable camera & lighting packages featuring a Canon C500 Mark II – compact enough for intimate verite sequences or robust enough for small-scale agency projects. I hold an FAA drone pilot license, PADI open water & HEFAT certifications as well as a degree in socio-cultural anthropology from Columbia University. More importantly, I can make fun of you in Spanish and ride a motorcycle (while shooting).

In 2021, my work with Showtime’s The Trade won an Emmy for Outstanding Cinematography in a documentary, and in 2024 my work with Jimmy Chin’s Edge of the Unknown (Nat Geo/Disney+) was nominated for a Cinema Eye award for best cinematography in a broadcast series. My most recent feature documentary, This Is Not Financial Advice, premiered at Tribecca Film Festival last year and sits in the top three most watched on Apple. I'm currently in production for a true crime docuseries for a major streamer. Born in Nashville, bred in NYC, based in LA.  

@niicollaus // IMDb // Resume