Biography

Stefan's early work on films like Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire (OSCAR, BAFTA and ASC award winner for Best Cinematography) and 127 Hours (starring James Franco), helped shape his path in becoming one of cinema's most exciting, emerging cinematographers. He's been at the forefront of digital cinematography on films such as Alexander Sokurov's epic one-shot opus Russian Ark, Lars von Trier's Antichrist and the graphic novel adaptation Dredd. His contribution as digital cinematography supervisor, 2nd Unit DOP and film colorist on these projects, as well as his association with Europe's most acclaimed filmmakers, laid the foundations for Stefan's own cinematic vision. Most recently, Stefan shot the stylish, neo-noir - actioner / graphic novel "Guns Akimbo" {starring Daniel Radcliffe and Samara Weaving} which premiered at TIFF & Sitges. The film is coming to cinemas worldwide in 2020. In 2019, "Babenco, Tell me when I Die" won the Venecia Classici award at the Venice International Film Festival and the "The Invisible Hand" premiered in Locarno. Making the transition to lensing high end Television, Stefan just wrapped Principal Photography on the Lionsgate / Starz period series "The Spanish Princess". His cinematography credits include Posthumous (from director Lulu Wang "The Farewell"), mystery thriller The Super (starring Val Kilmer, shot on location in New York), actor Ulrich Thomsen's (Celebration, The International, Banshee) directorial debut In Embryo, as well as cinematic experiences created by renowned artists Omer Fast and Eder Santos, which screened at venues like the MoMA in New York, Centre Pompidou in Paris and Martin Gropiusbau in Berlin.

Stefan's work transcends genres and borders, having worked with crews and directors in countries as diverse as South America, Cambodia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Europe and the US. His films have won awards at festivals around the world including Venice, Los Angeles, London, Beijing and Shanghai. Stefan was also part of the Oscar winning team behind Slumdog Millionaire.

In addition to this Stefan also conducts cinematography Masterclasses and Workshops for the Berlinale Talent Campus, the European Film Academy and various Film Schools all across the world.
- IMDb mini biography by: Stefan Ciupek