[1][2] Born in Bakhmut, Shkolnikov developed a keen interest in cinematography from a young age.
[5] While working at the studio, he also attended the Institute for the Advancement of Creative Workers under the State Committee for Cinematography.
[6] That same year, he was selected as part of a group of cameramen for a special assignment during the Winter War.
[8][9] From late September 1942, in the rank of engineer-captain, he worked as an assistant cameraman in the film group of the Kalinin Front.
[6] In 2005, Shkolnikov ran as a candidate for the Tallinn City Council elections with the Estonian Centre Party, but he did not receive enough votes.