About David
Schweitzer is known as a music video pioneer, having filmed the first contemporary video to play on MTV, "You Better Run" by Pat Benatar. He has also worked on numerous music videos for chart-topping artists and transitioned to working on TV commercials and feature films, learning from masters such as Gordon Willis, ASC, Bruce Surtees, ASC, and Dariusz Wolski, ASC.
Schweitzer's diverse portfolio includes stunning 35mm black-and-white street photographs and landscape photography, which he captures using large and medium formats. His ability to create captivating images across a variety of genres and formats demonstrates his mastery of the art of photography.
In addition to his work as a photographer and cinematographer, Schweitzer is also a producer, director, and animator. He is fluent in French and English and is an FAA-certified commercial multi-engine, instrument-rated airplane pilot.
Outside of his professional life, he enjoys cooking and outdoor activities. David Jean Schweitzer continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling and aims to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and photographers.
David developed a passion for photography and film at a young age. His interest was sparked when he was introduced to his sister's darkroom at age five, where he saw images magically appear in a tray of liquid.
By the age of eleven, he had set up his darkroom and started using a Super 8mm movie camera, fueling his passion for capturing images and storytelling. While attending the New School, Schweitzer worked part-time entry-level jobs.
He gained valuable experience at Warhol's Factory and David Bowie's Main Man Productions before becoming the personal assistant to writer-director Donald Cammell. He also worked as a camera assistant on film productions, receiving personal encouragement from Nicholas Ray and mentorship from David Quaid, ASC, and Mike Elliot of EUE/Screen Gems.
