German-born Cinematographer Markus Ilschner was drawn to the magic of cinema early on. Growing up on the other side of the Wall, in the German Democratic Republic, he was fascinated by the colorful, captivating movies from abroad — and started capturing family events, school trips and his own short films to lay the groundwork for a career in filmmaking.

After graduating in 2005, Markus began an apprenticeship at Bavaria Film Studios in Munich, gaining hands-on experience in lighting, shooting and editing. This training ground led to his first industry break as a grip assistant on the German TV series "Der Alte" ("The Old Fox").

Since 2009 he has worked freelance in the camera department, climbing from camera trainee through 2nd AC to 1st AC and Camera Operator — working on dozens of national and international TV series, dramas, features and commercials. His 2nd Unit and B-Camera work includes shows like "The Crown", "Hand of Creator" and "Redcon-1".

Moving to London in 2015 marked his transition to Cinematographer / DoP — a dream come true. Since then he has built a reputation as a fast, resourceful, technically meticulous collaborator, shooting narrative drama, commercials and short films across the UK, Germany and the Middle East.

In 2025 he was selected as a BSC Mentee under Mike Eley, BSC, following an ASC Mentorship under Paul Hughen, ASC, in 2020.

He is available for work worldwide.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

2025 — BSC Mentee, Mike Eley BSC

2020 — ASC Mentee, Paul Hughen ASC

2020 — Canadian Cinematography Awards, Finalist

2019 — LAKFF, Nomination: Best Cinematography

2015 — DOF IFF, Winner: Excellence in Cinematography

2015 — Indie Gathering Film Festival, Nominee: Best Cinematography