Doug Knapp, a renowned figure in the world of cinematography, has had a storied career spanning over five decades. As a graduate of the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts in 1972, Knapp has been a member of the International Cinematographers Guild, ICG Local 600, since 1977.
With a wealth of experience as a camera operator and director of photography, Knapp has worked on hundreds of television shows and feature films, including the iconic Star Trek and Murphy Brown series, as well as 15 feature films such as National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, Frankenweenie, The Green Hornet, Coming to America, and Beetlejuice. Knapp has had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most revered directors in the industry, including John Landis, Tim Burton, and John Carpenter.
In 2011, Knapp took on the role of Consultant and Director of Photography for Cinerama, working alongside John Hora, ASC, on the first film to be shot in the original Cinerama process in over 50 years. The film, titled "In The Picture," premiered at the Cinerama Film Festival held at the Arclight Dome theater on September 29th, 2012, and featured the legendary Debbie Reynolds.
Knapp has also made significant contributions to the industry through his roles as a member of the board of Governors of the Society of Camera Operators (SOC) and Publications Manager for The Camera Operator Magazine for 24 years. He was the recipient of the President's Award CAMMY in 1994.
As a member of the Board of Directors for the Visual Effects Society (VES),Knapp has worked on the nominating committee in various categories for the "Best Of in Visual Effects" awards since 2004. He has also served as a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (ATAS),serving on the Cinematography Peer Group and serving on the nominating committee for the EMMY Awards in Cinematography each year.
In addition to his extensive work in the industry, Knapp has also been an instructor at West Los Angeles College, teaching camera courses for eight years from 2012 to 2020. The college offers a Hollywood CPR program to students seeking entry-level employment in the professional Motion Picture and Television Industry.
