Trent Watts

Cinematographer

Play Reel

Work
About / contact

ABOUT

Trent Watts has lensed over 900 projects as a Cinematographer.  Although he primarily works in commercials, his narrative short, “Ro & the Stardust” qualified for the 2024 Oscars; and his documentary work has been shown on Netflix, Showtime, HBO, and Nat Geo.

What makes Trent unique as a DP is his story-first mentality.  He’d much rather find the shot that strengthens the story than obsess over a less important “pretty” shot.  He began writing creatively in his free time during elementary school, studied the craft of storytelling from authors like Joseph Campbell, Robert McKee, and later, Seth Godin; and won awards for his screenplays in college.  He gravitated towards cinematography in college when classmates kept asking him to shoot their projects.  He found he had a natural eye, thrived in high-pressure environments, and enjoyed telling stories most when in collaboration with others.

On shoots, he enjoys fostering a collaborative and positive atmosphere, where people feel valued for their contributions and empowered to do their best work.

Trent crews up and insures about 30-40% of his shoots (smaller doc and commercial projects) through his production company, Watts Media Productions, and he also owns a small rental company, A35 Camera Camera Club.

He’d probably love to work with you since you read this whole thing.  trent@trentwatts.com