What is a director of photography (DP/DOP)?
The director of photography is responsible for the look of a film, music video or commercial: lighting, framing, choice of camera and lenses, visual mood. They translate the director's vision into images and lead the camera and lighting crews on set.

What is the difference between a cinematographer, a director of photography and a « chef opérateur »?
None: they all refer to the same job. « Chef opérateur » is the traditional French term; director of photography (DP or DOP) and cinematographer are the English equivalents, most common in music videos and commercials.

What projects does Lenny Carter work on?
Music videos, around a hundred a year, for artists such as GIMS, Jul, RK, Jason Derulo and Fally Ipupa; fashion and luxury commercials for APM Monaco and Roger Vivier; and film: the short film Coupez! won Best Cinematography and the Audience Award at the 2026 Nikon Festival.

Do you come with your own gear and crew?
Yes, that's the standard package. Lenny Carter comes with all the gear (Arri Alexa Mini camera, Atlas Orion anamorphic lenses, Aputure lighting) and a crew of 5 to 6: two camera assistants, two electricians, a gaffer and himself as director of photography. A Steadicam operator can be added if the project requires it. The crew draws on a core team of around ten regular technicians.

How much does a cinematographer cost for a music video?
Lenny Carter works on a flat-rate basis: a single day rate covering cinematography, all camera and lighting gear and the full technical crew. No endless quotes: the rate is shared instantly via a simple WhatsApp message. In the rare cases where a project requires additional equipment, the rental is discussed with the production and is at its expense.

Do you shoot outside Paris?
Yes: in Paris and the Île-de-France region, on the French Riviera (Nice, Monaco, Cannes), throughout France and internationally. Lenny Carter works in French, English, Spanish and Creole.

What gear do you shoot with?
Mainly the Arri Alexa Mini, with Atlas Orion anamorphic lenses, an Angénieux Optimo DP zoom and Iron Glass vintage lenses. The full list is available on the Gear page.

How do I book Lenny Carter for a shoot?
The fastest way is to send a WhatsApp message to +33 6 13 98 62 47, or to email lennycarter@santarosaproduction.com, with the type of project, the dates and the location. You'll get an instant reply, since the package is always the same.