Simos Sarketzis

Simos Sarketzis is a seasoned Greek cinematographer whose career spans over 25 years across feature films, television, documentaries, short films, commercials, and theatre. Born in Cologne, Germany, he studied filmmaking at the Stavrakos Film School in Athens before continuing his education in Paris. Since then, he has built a formidable reputation in Greek and European cinema, known for his distinctive visual language and his ability to serve each story with atmospheric and emotionally resonant imagery. Sarketzis has collaborated with some of the most respected directors in contemporary Greek cinema. His long-standing creative relationship with acclaimed director Pantelis Voulgaris has resulted in some of the most visually memorable Greek films of recent decades. He served as director of photography on Little England (2013), a film that earned him the Hellenic Film Academy Award for Best Cinematography. His work was also central to Voulgaris's The Last Note (2017) and With Heart & Soul (2009), both of which showcased his signature ability to balance poetic realism with historical texture. Beyond his collaborations with Voulgaris, Sarketzis has been trusted by other major Greek filmmakers. He was the cinematographer for Xenia (2014), directed by Panos H. Koutras, a film that garnered international attention and acclaim for its bold style and social relevance. He also worked with Tassos Boulmetis on Mythopathy (2016), another notable example of his skill in crafting mood and atmosphere through natural light and composition. In 2023, Sarketzis's work on Behind the Haystacks (2022) further cemented his reputation. The film was warmly received by critics and audiences alike, beginning with its debut at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. Upon its general release across Greece, it quickly became a standout of the cinematic year. His cinematography in the film was singled out for praise both domestically and internationally, with reviewers highlighting the lyrical strength of his images and the subtle power of his visual storytelling. Throughout his career, Sarketzis has brought his talent not only to the screen but also to the stage, designing lighting for numerous theatrical productions. His versatility across mediums demonstrates a deep understanding of visual rhythm and the role of light in narrative, mood, and character. He is married to actress Vicky Volioti, with whom he tied the knot in New York. The couple has adopted a daughter from Ethiopia, and they maintain a private yet artistically active life. Simos Sarketzis remains one of the most respected cinematographers in Greece, known for his dedication to the craft and his collaborations on films that resonate both culturally and emotionally. His body of work continues to evolve, marked by consistency in artistic vision and an openness to the demands of varied cinematic genres and themes.