Chris Tinard is an award-winning cinematographer with more than 24 years of experience. He is the founder of OrangeScreen Productions, where his passion for storytelling and deep love of documentaries drive his work. His portfolio includes productions for Fortune 100 companies, public agencies, and major networks such as ESPN, CNN, and FOX—delivering everything from full-scale cinematic campaigns to simple marketing content. Chris has extensive experience creating multiple feature-length documentaries, with a heart for authentic storytelling, social justice, and impact-driven narratives. His current project, The Maasai Dilemma, now in pre-production, is a powerful exploration of the real lives and ongoing struggles of the Maasai people in Kenya.
Chris is a three-time Rocky Mountain Emmy Award nominee and a multiple Telly Award winner, known for blending technical precision with emotionally compelling stories.
In 2023, Chris launched cNOMADIC (YT: @cnomadic | IG: @C.N.O.M.A.D.I.C), an educational platform built to empower aspiring filmmakers with technically strong, practical instruction. Focused on the craft of cinematography—from camera settings to lighting and composition—cNOMADIC bridges the gap between creative vision and technical execution.
Chris is also the creator and president of AZDroneFest, Arizona’s first international drone film festival, which has become a premier platform for celebrating aerial cinematography, promoting UAS innovation, and educating the next generation of drone pilots. Since its launch in 2019, the festival has drawn global talent and fostered a vibrant community of drone enthusiasts and professionals.
Chris is a driving force in cinematography and creative education, combining deep industry experience with a relentless passion for innovation, meaningful storytelling, and mentorship.