STEVE
MACLAREN
Director | Cinematographer | Visual Alchemist
25+ Years Transforming Impossible Ideas Into Cinematic Gold
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Accomplished Director and Cinematographer with over 25 years of experience creating compelling visual narratives across narrative films, commercials, music videos, and documentaries. Proven track record of leading creative teams of up to 50 members on multi-million dollar productions while maintaining artistic vision and delivering projects on time and within budget.
Expert in all aspects of the filmmaking process, from initial concept development through final post-production. Skilled at fostering collaborative, inclusive environments that bring out the best in every team member. Passionate about mentoring emerging filmmakers and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling through innovative techniques and cutting-edge technology.
Co-founder of Th3 OCP (The Omni Creative Process), dedicated to transforming creative challenges into opportunities. Available for freelance, contract, and full-time partnerships with production companies, agencies, and direct clients seeking a visual storyteller who combines technical mastery with creative vision.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Directing
- • Performance Direction
- • Blocking & Staging
- • Script Analysis
- • Creative Vision
Cinematography
- • Lighting Design
- • Camera Operation
- • Composition
- • Color Theory
Visual Effects
- • Compositing
- • Motion Graphics
- • CGI Integration
- • Green Screen
Team Leadership
- • Crew Management
- • Budget Oversight
- • Scheduling
- • Mentorship
Pre-Production
- • Concept Development
- • Location Scouting
- • Storyboarding
- • Shot Lists
Post-Production
- • Editing
- • Color Grading
- • Sound Design
- • Final Delivery
25+ YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
FOUNDATION YEARS
Built expertise across all aspects of filmmaking, from camera operation to directing. Developed signature visual style and collaborative approach.
CREATIVE LEADERSHIP
Led creative teams of up to 50 members on multi-million dollar productions. Established reputation for innovative problem-solving and mentorship.
VISUAL MASTERY
Refined cinematography and VFX skills. Created award-winning work across narrative films, documentaries, and commercials.
TH3 OCP ERA
Co-founded Th3 OCP (The Omni Creative Process). Transforming creative challenges into cinematic opportunities while mentoring the next generation.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Co-Founder & Creative Director
Th3 OCP (The Omni Creative Process)
- • Co-founded innovative creative collective focused on transforming impossible ideas into cinematic reality
- • Develop and execute creative strategies for clients across commercial, narrative, and documentary projects
- • Mentor emerging filmmakers in all aspects of visual storytelling and production management
- • Build collaborative partnerships with production companies, agencies, and direct clients
- • Oversee all phases of production from concept through final delivery
Freelance Director / Director of Photography
MacLaren Studios
- • Direct and shoot narrative films, commercials, music videos, and documentary content for diverse clients
- • Lead creative teams of up to 50 members on complex multi-million dollar productions
- • Manage all aspects of production including budgeting, scheduling, crew hiring, and equipment procurement
- • Collaborate with clients to develop creative concepts that achieve business objectives while maintaining artistic integrity
- • Oversee post-production workflows including editing, color grading, visual effects, and sound design
- • Maintain relationships with production companies, agencies, and direct clients throughout Detroit and nationwide
Camera Operator / Cinematographer
Various Productions
- • Operated camera on features, television shows, commercials, and music videos
- • Developed expertise across all camera systems including RED, ARRI, Sony, and Canon platforms
- • Collaborated with directors and production designers to achieve desired visual aesthetic
- • Managed lighting setups for productions ranging from intimate interviews to large-scale commercial shoots
- • Built reputation for technical excellence and creative problem-solving under pressure
TECHNICAL SKILLS
CAMERA SYSTEMS
Professional Cameras:
RED Epic/Scarlet, ARRI Alexa, Sony FX9/FX6/FS7, Canon C300/C500, Blackmagic URSA
Lenses:
Zeiss CP.2, Canon L-Series, Sigma Cine, Rokinon Cine DS
Support:
DJI Ronin, Steadicam, Dana Dolly, Slider Systems
SOFTWARE
Editing:
Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut Pro X
VFX & Motion Graphics:
After Effects, Nuke, Cinema 4D, Blender
Color Grading:
DaVinci Resolve, Baselight
LIGHTING
Expert in designing and executing lighting setups for all scenarios:
- • HMI, Tungsten, LED systems
- • Natural light augmentation
- • Studio and location lighting
- • Three-point, Rembrandt, and dramatic lighting styles
PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
Comprehensive production oversight capabilities:
- • Budget development & management
- • Crew hiring & coordination
- • Location scouting & permits
- • Equipment rental & logistics
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Film & Video Production
Extensive hands-on training and professional development
25+ years of continuous learning through on-set experience, workshops, and self-directed study. Expertise developed through working in virtually every role on a film set, from production assistant to director.
Ongoing Professional Development
- • Regular attendance at industry conferences and film festivals
- • Continuous training on new camera systems and technologies
- • Active participation in filmmaking communities and workshops
- • Mentorship relationships with established industry professionals
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
FILM FESTIVAL SELECTIONS
Multiple narrative short films and music videos selected for screening at independent film festivals across North America, recognizing excellence in directing, cinematography, and visual storytelling.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Consistent five-star reviews and repeat business from satisfied clients across commercial, narrative, and documentary projects. Known for professionalism, creativity, and ability to deliver beyond expectations.
AVAILABILITY
Currently accepting freelance, contract, and full-time opportunities. Ready to leverage 25+ years of experience to create something extraordinary with you.