My Story

Maks Pilipenko is a filmmaker, creative producer, cinematographer, and director of photography.
Born in Kyiv in 1986.

A self-taught artist, Maks began his journey in photography and post-production under the guidance of experienced mentors, developing a unique visual language rooted in emotional storytelling and cinematic precision.

From his early days in a darkroom owned by his uncle, Maks grew fascinated with the magic of light, image, and human expression. His professional career took off in 2009, when he began working in advertising, journalistic, and documentary photography — a path that led him to collaborations across Ukraine, Europe, and beyond.

In 2012, his passion evolved into filmmaking. The photographic eye that once shaped still images began to define motion — creating stories that merge visual poetry with documentary realism. His first commercial video works were instantly recognized for their style and energy.

In 2013–2014, Maks worked as Director of Photography on the short film “13 Angel”, marking his first international production.
By 2014, he was deeply engaged in directing and post-production, merging technical mastery with narrative craft. This period led to the founding of his first creative studio — MD Empire, a production hub built from pure passion and collaboration. From there, he led campaigns for major brands, government institutions, and global clients, developing his skills in creative leadership and strategic production.

In 2017, Maks founded MAXFILM Studio, focusing on film, commercial, and documentary projects. His portfolio grew to include collaborations with Vodafone, Samsung, Lifecell, Inkerman, and the Embassy of Canada in Ukraine, as well as a long-term creative partnership with the Government of Ukraine.

In 2021–2023, he headed the Video & Photo Production Department at KyivPost, transforming a traditional print newsroom into a digital media platform with a full in-house video division.

In 2022, Maks worked as a war photojournalist and reporter, covering some of the most intense frontline areas in Ukraine. His photos and stories were published in major international outlets, documenting the resilience and human cost of the war.

Since 2023, based in Cyprus, he continues to develop as a filmmaker, producer, and strategist, leading video production for large YouTube channels such as KRASAVA vlog and DOM Media (1M+ subscribers), and building Bravo Media — a creative studio dedicated to documentaries, social storytelling, and visual innovation.



Philosophy

Maks believes that every story — whether cinematic, documentary, or commercial — should connect emotion with truth. His work blends authenticity, aesthetics, and meaning, turning visual content into experiences that move and inspire audiences.