Dop Paul Tatcu
INNA - JUST DANCE CLUB PARTY
(including Moving Lights programming and technical setup)
About Me
With over 5 years of experience as a Gaffer, I’ve lit more than 200 music videos, 50+ commercials, and 2 feature films. This portfolio offers a glimpse into my work and my approach to shaping light.
My journey in the industry began at 17, driven by a hands-on curiosity for everything technical. For four years, I worked in the fast-paced world of live events, learning the ropes of electrical systems, rigging, video, and stage lighting under real-world pressure. Fifteen years ago, I stepped onto a film set for the first time and instantly knew I had found my place. I started as an electrician and explored the grip department, but my true passion has always been lighting—not just for its technical challenge, but for its emotional power.
I believe light is more than exposure; it’s a core part of storytelling. My approach combines precision, speed, and a deep sensitivity to the director's and DoP’s vision. I am committed to the quality of every frame and bring a focused, dedicated work ethic to each project. This has given me the opportunity to work on international productions such as The Contractor, Wednesday, Voyagers, and The Princess Switch.
Bobo Filip, Radu Fulga, Paul Tatcu, Zoran Simulov, Viorel Sergovici, Alexandru Dorobantu (Ate), Marius Besu, Marius Apopei, Marius Ivascu, Barbu Balasoiu, Toma Velio, Lulu de Hillerin, Cosmin Fericeanu, David Mogan, Alexandru Muresan, Paul Dovan, Stefan Comanescu among many other talented directors of photography I’ve had the privilege to work with throughout the years.
Technical Skills & Tools
My foundation in live events gave me a strong technical skill set that sets me apart as a Gaffer. I understand the full chain, from power and data to safety and aesthetics.
- Lighting Consoles: Confident operation of Chamsys and Blackout consoles.
- Lighting & Power Systems: In-depth knowledge of DMX, LED, HMI, Tungsten, and modern RGBW fixtures, as well as power distribution and safety.
- Video Integration: Extensive experience with Resolume Arena for video playback and LED screen integration.
- Rigging & Safety: Full understanding of grip rigging, truss mechanics, and on-set safety protocols.
Professional Profile
My role as a Gaffer is to be the bridge between the Director of Photography's vision and the technical reality on set. My mission is to transform creative concepts into light—ensuring every frame is sculpted with intention, precision, and emotion. I lead the lighting department to deliver exceptional results, regardless of the creative or logistical challenges.
Approach & Responsibilities
- Design & Execution: I translate the DoP's creative vision into practical and impactful lighting schemes.
- Team Management: I lead and organize the lighting department, ensuring seamless collaboration with the grip and camera teams.
- Strategic Planning: I manage the entire workflow, from pre-production (pre-lighting, gear proposals, location scouting) to final on-set execution.
- Efficiency & Adaptability: I work quickly and find creative solutions under pressure, always respecting the story, schedule, and budget.
Areas of Technical Expertise
Lighting Control Systems
- Advanced Operation: Mastery of consoles including GrandMA, Chamsys, and Blackout, with experience in DMX programming, universe mapping, and live cue execution.
- LED & Video Integration: Solid knowledge of LED wall configuration and real-time operation, using Resolume Arena for seamless integration between video and lighting.
On-Set Equipment & Versatility
- Equipment Knowledge: Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of lights and accessories: HMI, LED, Tungsten, RGBW, including units from ARRI (SkyPanel), Aputure, Kino Flo, etc.
- Adaptability: Prepared for any shooting scenario: fast-paced guerrilla-style productions, complex night exteriors, or controlled studio environments.
Rigging & Support Structures
- Grip & Lighting Synergy: A deep understanding of how grip and lighting work together, anticipating needs to maintain an efficient and safe workflow.
- Complex Rigging & Custom Mounts: I design and execute complex rigging for stages, truss structures, and custom mounting solutions, ensuring ideal positioning and safety for all equipment, regardless of the setup's difficulty.
Robert Fenichiu
Gaffer · Lighting · Film & Television | Available for local and international productions
