About David
Schweitzer, a music-video pioneer (having lensed the first contemporary video to play on MTV, You Better Run by Pat Benatar), has filmed numerous music videos for music chart-making artists. Moving on from TV commercials to features, he has worked for masters Gordon Willis, ASC, Bruce Surtees, ASC, and Dariusz Wolski, ASC.
David is passionate about traditional film and highly skilled with black-and-white street photography and large-and medium-format film cameras.
In addition to his work as a photographer and cinematographer, David is also a producer, director, and animator. He speaks French and English fluently and is also an FAA-certified commercial multi-engine, instrument-rated airplane pilot. David is also an avid cook and outdoorsman.
David Jean Schweitzer continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling and inspire the next generation of filmmakers and photographers.
David Jean Schweitzer, SOC, became fascinated with photography and film at a young age. While in his sister's darkroom, who exposed him to the wonders of images emerging miraculously in a tray of liquid at the age of five, he became awestruck. Six years later, David assembled his darkroom. Equipped with a Super 8mm movie camera, he quickly developed a passion for capturing images and storytelling.
During his formative evolution, he assumed part-time entry-level jobs while attending the New School. He rose through the ranks of what turned out to be a historical intersection of fine art, pop music, and motion pictures.
As his career path unfurled before him, he gained priceless experience at Warhol's Factory and David Bowie's Main Man Productions before becoming the personal assistant to writer-director Donald Cammell. Next, Schweitzer worked as a camera assistant on film productions. He was given considerable personal encouragement by Nicholas Ray. In addition, David Quaid, ASC, and Mike Elliot of EUE/Screen Gems fame mentored him.
