Joel Schwartzberg is an award-winning Director of Photography whose visual storytelling spans decades and continents. Joel has shaped the look of some of the most compelling documentary series and reality shows for networks like National Geographic, Discovery, CNN, Netflix, History Channel, and Vice. His portfolio includes acclaimed series such as HBO’s The Truth About Jim, CNN Heroes, History Channel’s Morgan Freeman’s Story of God, Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch, and Devoured.
Known for his exceptional ability to craft narrative-driven cinematography, Joel brings a creative, insightful eye to every production, enhancing each project with emotional depth and cinematic beauty. His technical mastery across an array of cameras and his expertise in timelapse allow him to innovate across genres, from true crime to science to corporate communications and commercials.
Joel’s work has earned prestigious recognition, including a Golden Cine Eagle, five regional Emmy Awards, a Bronze Telly, and multiple Communicator Crystal Awards of Excellence. Whether leading large production teams or operating solo in extreme environments, Joel’s leadership fosters collaboration and excellence on every set.
Currently based in both Dallas and Los Angeles, Joel continues to elevate storytelling through cinematography that captures both the heart and the essence of the human experience.
"Joel Schwartzberg is one of the most visually dynamic DP's in the game. He can go pretty, or he can go gritty; but it's his sharp sense of story, and his ability to capture real human emotion that separates him from the rest. The best work of my career I owe to Joel."
- Brent Henderson, Show Runner
"Joel's eye for getting the shot and his attentiveness to the assignment at hand put him in an elite class. But when you add his cool temperament, his creative input, and his sensitivity to the subject matter - I dare you to find a better overall DP. Joel is indeed the real deal!"
- Art Rubalcava, Producer
"Joel's keen visual styling comes through in his masterful visual acumen. Besides intuitively being one step ahead of the action or the scene at hand, working with him in the field makes for a wonderful and humorous journey."
- Anthony Samu, Executive Producer/Director