Sir Franz Pagot OMRI AIC was born near Venice, Italy, and was educated in the classics. After working in the camera department for many years, he moved to London in the 1980s, assisting famed Steadicam operator John Ward on Full Metal Jacket, Robin Hood and Sleepy Hollow, and ultimately establishing himself as a respected cinematographer in features, as well as shooting more than 500 commercials.
With his chiaroscuro style, he has framed cinema icons including Peter O'Toole, Ray Winston, Jude Law and Steven Berkoff among many others. He is a respected painter and some of his work is on display at the Saatchi Art Collection.
He was awarded a Knighthood in 2018.
Franz is a member of BAFTA and the GBCT and he is a journalist member of the National Union of Journalists.
He has won many awards and published several books, (of which all proceeds go to charity) including the highly-praised Immersive 3D: The Secrets Of Beautiful Stereo Cinematography.