Marlena Steiner is a freelance cinematographer who seeks projects that challenge her to try something new on a technical level. She was born and raised in Northern New Jersey where she discovered her passion for filmmaking and photography. After attending the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for a year, Marlena decided that the next step toward her career goal was to attend a university in Los Angeles.

The following year, she transferred to Loyola Marymount University where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television Production. While studying at LMU, Marlena was awarded the Entertainment Industry Scholarship and worked on over 50 student and professional films. In the spring of 2010, she wrote, directed, and photographed a short film that later went on to win her an award for "Best Director Honorable Mention" and a nomination for "Best Cinematography" at Film Outside the Frame. As a camera enthusiast, Marlena worked at the Student Camera Department and the Burns Photography Lab. During her final year, Marlena was the teacher's assistant for the introduction and advanced level cinematography classes and interned at The Camera House in North Hollywood. Before graduating from LMU with honors, Marlena was awarded the Ian Connor Cinematography Award, which exemplifies her passion for the cinematic image.

In the fall of 2011, Marlena was one of thirty filmmakers selected to be part of Film Independent's Project:Involve program.

Marlena's charisma and drive are what stand her apart from others. She believes that it is an important part of filmmaking to learn and have fun on every job.