He attended Saint Monica Catholic High School, where he developed a deep interest in the art and science of filmmaking. Accompanying his father to movie sets, Daniel was fascinated by the technical equipment and behind-the-scenes operations. This exposure sparked his aspiration to pursue a career in film production. During his formative years, he frequently watched documentaries and feature films to gain a better understanding of filmmaking technology.

After completing high school, Moder enrolled at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1992.

Career Beginnings in Film Production

Daniel Moder began his career in the film industry as a production assistant on the 1995 action thriller Crimson Tide. This role provided him with valuable hands-on experience and a closer look at the technological aspects of film production. In 1996, he worked on the sports drama The Fan, contributing to the coordination of choreographed scenes and honing his production skills.

Shortly thereafter, Moder transitioned into the camera and electrical departments, taking on crew roles in films such as The Brave, The Big Tease, and Enemy of the State. These projects further diversified his technical knowledge and laid the groundwork for his eventual move into cinematography.

Transition to Cinematography

Moder made his debut as a cinematographer with the short comedy film Kid Quick. Although the film did not achieve widespread recognition, it marked an important milestone in his professional journey. He went on to work on several feature films and earned acclaim for his visual work in films such as Border, Jesus Henry Christ, and The Normal Heart.