Our Faculty
Evelyn Hayes
Head Instructor, Award-Winning Director
Evelyn Hayes is the heart and soul of Zenith Directing Academy. An award-winning director with over 20 years of experience in the film industry, Evelyn has directed numerous critically acclaimed films and television series. Her expertise lies in narrative storytelling, actor direction, and bringing a director's vision to life. Evelyn's passion for teaching and mentorship has inspired countless students to pursue their dreams of becoming successful filmmakers. At Zenith, she leads the Directing Fundamentals course and provides personalized mentorship to advanced students.
Achievements:
- Winner of the Los Angeles Film Festival Award for Best Director
- Directed multiple episodes of a prime-time television drama series
- Mentored several students who have gone on to direct their own feature films
"Evelyn is an exceptional mentor and instructor. Her guidance and encouragement were instrumental in helping me develop my skills as a director."
Javier Ramirez
Cinematography Expert
Javier Ramirez is a renowned cinematographer with a keen eye for visual storytelling. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Javier has worked on a wide range of projects, from independent films to Hollywood blockbusters. His expertise lies in lighting, camera movement, and creating stunning visuals that enhance the narrative. Javier teaches the Advanced Cinematography course at Zenith, where he shares his knowledge and passion for the art of visual storytelling. He emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, ensuring students gain the skills and confidence they need to excel in the field.
Achievements:
- Received the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Award nomination for Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography
- Served as Director of Photography for several commercially successful feature films
- Has lectured at various film schools and universities across the country
"Javier's expertise in cinematography is unparalleled. His insights and guidance helped me to understand the importance of visual storytelling and how to use camera techniques to enhance the narrative."
Anya Petrova
Post-Production Specialist
Anya Petrova is a highly skilled post-production specialist with extensive experience in editing, sound design, and visual effects. Anya has worked on numerous award-winning films and television shows, and she is known for her ability to transform raw footage into polished and captivating final products. At Zenith Directing Academy, Anya teaches the Post-Production Mastery course, where she guides students through the intricacies of editing, sound design, and visual effects. Her hands-on approach and practical exercises ensure that students graduate with the skills they need to succeed in the fast-paced world of post-production.
Achievements:
- Won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Sound Editing for a Limited Series, Movie, or Special
- Supervised the post-production of several critically acclaimed films
- Developed innovative techniques for visual effects and sound design
"Anya's knowledge of post-production is incredible. She taught me how to transform raw footage into a compelling story through editing, sound design, and visual effects."
Kenji Tanaka
Screenwriting Guru
Kenji Tanaka is a celebrated screenwriter and story consultant, known for his ability to craft compelling narratives and memorable characters. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, Kenji has worked on a variety of projects, from independent films to studio blockbusters. Kenji brings to Zenith Directing Academy a rich understanding of narrative structure, character development, and the art of storytelling for the screen. Kenji's students benefit from his practical insights and his encouragement to find their unique voices as storytellers. He helps aspiring filmmakers craft scripts that resonate with audiences and stand out in the competitive film industry.
Achievements:
- Nominated for the Writers Guild of America Award for Best Original Screenplay
- Served as a story consultant for major film studios
- Taught screenwriting at prestigious universities and film schools
"Kenji's screenwriting expertise is invaluable. He helped me to develop my storytelling skills and to craft scripts that resonate with audiences."
Isabella Rossi
Costume Design Instructor
Isabella Rossi is a highly sought-after costume designer known for her impeccable eye for detail and ability to bring characters to life through wardrobe. With over 12 years of experience in both film and theatre, Isabella has worked on numerous critically acclaimed productions. Her classes at Zenith focus on the pivotal role costumes play in storytelling, covering topics such as character development, historical accuracy, and collaborative design. Isabella's commitment to nurturing emerging talent makes her an invaluable asset to our students.
Achievements:
- Costume designer for several award-winning independent films
- Guest lecturer at Parsons School of Design
- Published author of "Dressing the Part: A Guide to Character-Driven Costume Design"
"Isabella transformed my understanding of how costumes can elevate a film. Her passion is infectious, and her insights are invaluable."
Omar Hassan
Sound Engineer & Instructor
Omar Hassan is a seasoned sound engineer with an impressive track record in both film and music production. With over 15 years of experience, Omar's expertise spans recording, mixing, and mastering, with a specialization in creating immersive audio experiences. At Zenith, Omar provides comprehensive sound design training, ensuring students master both the technical and artistic aspects of sound. His collaborative approach and industry connections are instrumental in launching the careers of aspiring sound engineers.
Achievements:
- Lead sound engineer for several chart-topping music albums
- Award-winning sound design for independent films
- Certified Pro Tools instructor
"Omar's guidance was pivotal in refining my skills in sound design. His deep industry knowledge and practical advice are unmatched."
Lena Moreau
Makeup Artist & Instructor
Lena Moreau is a celebrated makeup artist known for her innovative and transformative work in film, television, and theatre. With over 10 years of experience, Lena's skill set includes special effects makeup, character design, and beauty artistry. At Zenith, Lena offers hands-on training in all aspects of makeup artistry, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and creative expression. Her students benefit from her deep understanding of the industry and her dedication to fostering artistic growth.
Achievements:
- Head makeup artist for several notable film productions
- Featured in industry publications for innovative makeup techniques
- Guest lecturer at beauty and makeup conventions
"Lena's expertise elevated my makeup skills immensely. Her insights into character design and special effects are truly inspiring."
Ben Carter
Visual Effects Supervisor & Instructor
Ben Carter is a highly skilled visual effects supervisor with extensive experience in creating stunning visual effects for both film and television. With over 15 years of experience, Ben's expertise includes CGI, compositing, and animation. At Zenith, Ben leads the Visual Effects course, where he shares his knowledge and passion for the art of visual effects. His hands-on approach and practical exercises ensure that students graduate with the skills they need to succeed in the fast-paced world of visual effects.
Achievements:
- Visual effects supervisor for several blockbuster films
- Award-winning CGI work on television series
- Developed innovative techniques for visual effects and animation
"Ben's knowledge of VFX is incredible. He taught me how to create incredible visual effects and transform raw footage into visual masterpieces."