Lawrence Sher

Biography

Lawrence Sher, ASC, is an American cinematographer and film director known for his visually rich, emotionally nuanced work across comedy, drama, and blockbuster cinema. He was born on February 4, 1970, in Teaneck, New Jersey, USA.

Sher grew up with a deep appreciation for photography and storytelling. After earning a degree in Economics from Wesleyan University, he initially planned a different career path but soon discovered his passion for filmmaking. His transition into cinematography came through a love for light, composition, and the art of visual emotion.

Career

Lawrence Sher began his career as a camera assistant and lighting technician before working his way up to director of photography. His early credits included independent films and television work that showcased his sharp eye for naturalistic lighting and creative visual tone.

He gained recognition in the early 2000s for his work on comedies such as Garden State (2004), directed by Zach Braff, where his soft, nostalgic cinematography became a defining feature of the film. This success led to collaborations on several high-profile studio comedies, including:

The Hangover trilogy (2009–2013)

Due Date (2010)

The Dictator (2012)*

While Sher became known for shaping the look of modern Hollywood comedies, his career expanded into more dramatic and artistically ambitious projects. His work on Joker (2019), directed by Todd Phillips, earned him widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography. The film’s gritty yet poetic visuals became one of its most defining qualities, solidifying Sher’s reputation as a master of visual storytelling.

He reunited with Phillips for Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) and also contributed to major films such as Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019) and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013).

In addition to his cinematography, Sher made his directorial debut with the comedy Father Figures (2017), further showcasing his range as a filmmaker.