About – Leonhard Akinbiyi

NICE TO MEET YOU

I'm Leo

Born in Bavaria's Bad Tölz and raised across multiple worlds—from Augsburg to London, Oxford, and Nigeria—my multicultural upbringing has profoundly shaped both my worldview and visual language. These contrasting environments—Bavaria's mountainous landscapes, Oxford's contemplative atmosphere, and London's urban energy—have cultivated a diverse tapestry of influences that shape my unique visual approach.

For over two decades, I've specialized in creating visually striking commercial work where cinematic storytelling meets cutting-edge CGI. My expertise lies in bridging the technical and emotional aspects of filmmaking, particularly in the delicate art of integrating computer-generated imagery with authentic human performances.

My directorial approach uses rich, layered visuals and deliberate lighting to reveal psychological states beneath surface appearances. I'm drawn to the moral complexity of characters caught between public performance and private truth—often using subtle speculative elements to expose deeper realities of contemporary life. Visual metaphors are central to my storytelling, particularly in exploring how technology reshapes human connection, creating powerful contrasts between the authentic and the performed self.

In my 16+ years at aixsponza, I've worked with global brands including Red Bull, Netflix, Nike, Adidas, BMW, Audi, Payback, penny and many more.

Alongside my commercial work, I'm developing narrative projects. My upcoming short film "The Couple" examines the dark intersection of social media, authenticity, and intimate relationships—exploring how performance for an audience corrodes genuine connection. In my narrative work, I create visually striking worlds with symbolic elements that externalize internal conflicts, asking audiences: What remains when the cameras stop rolling and the performance ends?

My love for cinema was born in childhood, where weekly film viewings were transformative rituals. Watching films like Aliens, the Goonies and Indiana Jones opened portals to new worlds, showing me how powerful moving images could be. Decades later, that childlike wonder still drives my work—creating moments where viewers can lose themselves in the story unfolding before them, giving viewers a memorable emotional experience.

Whether directing a 30-second commercial or a narrative film, my goal remains constant: to create work that resonates emotionally, lingers visually, and invites viewers to experience something beyond the ordinary.

Contact Me

Email: leo@shinjin.de