Dave Perkal, ASC – Cinematographer • Producer • Director
Dave Perkal, ASC is a Los Angeles–based cinematographer, producer, and director whose work has been described as “visually commanding, emotionally immersive, and cinematic in the truest sense”, bringing stories to life with striking compositions, evocative lighting, and a cinematic scale that rivals the biggest productions while maintaining intimate emotional resonance. A filmmaker with a rare multi-disciplinary background, Perkal brings together the instincts of a director, the discipline of a producer, and the refined craft of a cinematographer. This makes him a deeper collaborator, a stronger creative partner, and a more intuitive visual storyteller.
Perkal grew up splitting his time between Maui and California, experiences that nurtured a love for adventure and a deep connection to nature. He is an avid surfer, sailor, and scuba diver, passions that have informed his visual sensibility, adaptability, and calm presence on set.
A member of the American Society of Cinematographers since 2011, Perkal has built a career spanning feature films, television, pilots, commercials, and branded content—always with an eye toward story, character, and visual clarity. His feature work includes cinematography on Lionsgate’s The House Next Door: Meet The Blacks 2 and the multi-award-winning Do You Take This Man, which he also produced. He produced and lensed the pilot Ramble On, from the creator of Entourage, starring Charlie Sheen, Martin Sheen, Emmanuelle Chriqui, and Jamie-Lynn Sigler.
Perkal’s television credits include Netflix’s Cowboy Bebop, Marvel’s Runaways, CBS’s Zoo, ABC’s Primetime Emmy-winning Castle, HBO’s Emmy-winning Entourage, The Vampire Diaries, Scrubs, Chuck, Franklin & Bash, and Wicked City.
A Multi-Disciplinary Filmmaker With a Director’s Heart and a Producer’s Discipline
Perkal’s experience as a producer and director deeply informs his cinematography. As a producer, he understands schedule, budget, and execution—ensuring projects stay on time and under budget. As a director, he knows exactly what filmmakers need to guide actors, shape performance, and bring the story to life. Having worked in all three roles, Perkal understands what directors and producers want and need, making him a more intuitive and collaborative cinematographer.
Commercial & Branded Content
Perkal also directs and shoots commercials and branded content for clients including LG, Google, Sprint, Vidant Health, Intrust Bank, and Jolly Time Popcorn. His approach blends cinematic craftsmanship with clear messaging, creating polished, compelling visuals that elevate brand storytelling.
Perkal holds a BS in Film and Television from San Diego State University and a graduate degree in Cinematography from the American Film Institute. Across every medium, he brings artistry, leadership, and multi-disciplinary expertise to every project—helping directors, producers, and performers achieve their best work while creating images that are as emotionally resonant as they are visually striking.