Born in Southern California, Michael Tedford has achieved position as Director of Photography on feature films, commercials, shorts and music videos. He has most recently been honored as Emerging Cinematographer from the International Cinematographer’s Guild (IATSE Local 600) for shooting the commercial Elder Scrolls Legend: The Draw, which was also honored at the prestigious Camerimage Film Festival in Toruń, Poland.

Regardless of the type of project, Michael works extensively with the director and crew to cultivate imagery that elevates each story, giving the audience a deeply effectual experience. He approaches each project with an arsenal of knowledge acquired from eighteen years of working in both camera and lighting. He has a deep passion for lighting and considers it his favorite part of the process. Michael also enjoys collaborating with the director to create something unique that encompasses each perspective, balancing the director’s vision with his own skill set and experience.

Michael’s work as a commercial cinematographer has garnered acknowledgements not only from the guild but from several gaming companies including: Bethesda Games, Warner Brothers Gaming, Disney, Nexon, Mattel and Zynga. His clients regard his abilities to overcome obstacles while creating new and exciting worlds that fully emerge the viewers into the journey of each game. His love for shooting commercials doesn’t stop with gaming. He has worked with many different companies including Toyota, UFC and AAA Insurance.

As a narrative cinematographer Michael’s work has been seen across several networks and streaming platforms. One of his more notable projects is Body Of Proof directed by Mattio Martinez and produced by ABC. He also has countless other projects including shorts, pilots, and features. He has had the pleasure of working with many talented actors including James Cromwell, Jolene Jenkins, Bashir Salahuddin and Danny Woodburn.

Michael graduated from the University of Southern California Film and Television program (now Cinematic Arts) in 2004. Even though he was born in Southern California, he was raised in Eugene, Oregon a place he still holds close to his heart. When he is not immersed in the film world, you can find him creating with his 3D printer or hanging out with his wife and dogs.