Lee Jake Mariano is an accomplished cinematographer with a remarkable career spanning over 26 years in the film industry. Based in the Philippines, Australia, and across Asia, he has gained recognition as one of the rising stars in cinematography, representing the new wave of talented Directors of Photography emerging from the region.
Having spent 22 years honing his craft in Australia, LJM's experience on large international productions, including Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Charlotte’s Web, and The Quiet American, has equipped him with a unique blend of technical skill and artistic vision. He has worked with renowned directors like George Lucas, Guillermo del Toro, and Marc Forster, as well as esteemed cinematographers such as Christopher Doyle, Benoit Delhomme and Seamus McGarvey. This extensive background allows him to navigate the complexities of production while maintaining a bold, cinematic style that evokes deep emotional responses through his imagery.
In recent years, LJM has focused on projects in Manila, where he has served as Director of Photography on three feature films—one of which received a nomination for Best Cinematography at the Gawad Urian in 2021. He has also worked on the first series for Vivamax and various television commercials, further establishing his footprint in the industry.
Originally from Manila, Lee Jake now resides there with his wife and their two sons, who are aspiring NBA stars. His journey reflects a deep connection to his roots while embracing opportunities across the globe, solidifying his status as a significant voice in modern cinematography.