Visiting Filmmakers Series Online: MJ Rizk, cinematographer

Monday, April 27, 2020 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM EDT
Online Location

MJ Rizk is a respected director of photographer and camera operator for TV, reality and medical shows, documentaries and narratives. Her TV shooting credits include America’s Next Top Model, Outdoor Life Network’s Outdoor Investigations and The Real World. Her DP credits include award-winning films, Stray Dogs, Baby Time Share, and Old Maid.

Born in war-embroiled Lebanon, MJ learned the film business from visiting sets with her father, owner of one of Lebanon’s leading advertising agencies. As she recalls, “I loved the atmosphere and watching all those people with amazing skills create magic!” Lebanon’s increasing volatility prompted her move to the U.S. She has a BS in film/TV and television from Bradley and an MFA in filmmaking from Columbia College.

MJ Rizk moved back to Lebanon to produce and direct commercials for her father, but remained in touch with Chicago friends, returning intermittently to shoot projects. After Stray Dogs in 2000, she settled permanently in Chicago. She landed her first American TV shooting job on The Real World Chicago after dropping by the set.

MJ says, “I’ve been very lucky to shoot projects that exposed me to all sorts of professions and subcultures. I’ve worked with paramedics, surgeons, super models and hiphop stars, artists, photographers, wild animal trainers and bear poachers, therapists, burlesque legends, cave divers, surfers, fishermen, scientists, moon lovers and drum makers.”

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