Lauren Bartling is an award winning director with a passion for bold, original storytelling that leaves lasting impressions.

After attending Marin School of the Arts from 2016 to 2020, Lauren made her directorial debut in 2021. She has gone on to direct films, each showcasing her meticulous eye for detail and commitment to crafting stylistically distinct cinematic worlds.

Her films are immersive, visually striking, and deeply rooted in character-driven storytelling. Her work has earned seven honors and awards,

including “Best Director” at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s 10-10-10 in 2023, “Best Short Film” at Los Angeles Cinefest in the same year, and “Best Student Film” at the Grand Foundation Student Film Festival in 2019.

Lauren thrives on collaboration, building sets that feel like creative families where trust and ambition drive the work forward. She surrounds herself with dedicated cast and crew who share her vision, while always welcoming new hard workers to expand her creative family. For her, filmmaking is about more than just execution; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels like they’re achieving something extraordinary together.

Lauren’s directing style is unmistakable, defined by theatrical characters, precise blocking, and visually rich storytelling. Every shot is intentional. She consistently uses meticulously curated color palettes, warm lighting, and tightly paced editing to create her immersive worlds that feel unique and alive.

Music plays a vital role in her storytelling, with each score carefully handpicked to enhance emotion and elevate the experience. Her films aren’t just visually striking; they are full of heart, personality, and unforgettable moments.

Lauren’s films don’t just tell stories; they stay with people. With a relentless dedication to her craft, she continues to push boundaries, creating cinematic worlds that captivate, inspire, and demand to be remembered.