ABOUT DANIEL L. TELLES

Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, I’m a Xicano cinematographer and filmmaker passionate about telling stories that center underrepresented communities and marginalized voices.

Currently, I serve as a Senior Producer and Editor at ITVS, where I collaborate on independent documentaries that challenge dominant narratives and deepen public understanding. I’m proud to be part of a team committed to creating space for stories that shift culture and spark dialogue.

This year, I’m incredibly honored that our documentary American Agitators won the Jury Award for Best Documentary at Cinequest, as well at the Poppy Jasper Film Festival. The film highlights the powerful organizing legacy of Fred Ross Sr. and Fred Ross Jr., and this recognition fuels our mission to inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Over the past decade, my documentary work has appeared on Vice Media, PBS’s American Masters, and in gallery exhibitions like Amalia Mesa-Bains: In Her Own Worlds, currently on display at the Berkeley Art Museum.

I also have a strong foundation in commercial cinematography, with experience in fashion, interiors, and product work. Through partnerships with Meraki Narrative Creative Agency and Rae Rockwell Studio, I’ve created video content for platforms including Hulu, YouTube, and Amazon.

My narrative short Moody Suzy was featured at the Cannes Film Festival’s Diversity Day, and I have several projects in development that celebrate the resilience, artistry, and achievements of BIPOC communities.

📱 In addition to my film work, I’ve built a TikTok following of 34.8K+, where I share behind-the-scenes content, creative tips, and cinematic storytelling. I’ve partnered with brands like Adobe, Aputure Amaran, and Anker, using my platform to highlight both the craft and community of filmmaking.