why I Chose Video.
Ever since I got my hands on my parent’s Sony Handycam 20 or so years ago, video cameras have been like an extension of my arm. The first film I ever made was for my Dad’s 50th birthday. The next was for my Grandma’s funeral. The response was overwhelmingly positive, but the one thing I kept hearing was “Wow, I just wish she could have seen that”.
I quickly realized the importance of having our stories told, whatever stage of life we’re in, but most importantly while we’re still around to celebrate them and share them with others. I have since made countless films for every reason under the sun and I’m telling you: there is no story too small, no reason too insignificant.
This stuff sets my heart on fire and has inspired me to help others celebrate their people and relive the most treasured moments in their lives through film.
are we the same?
You deserve the greatest film possible, and I believe connecting with your videographer is essential to that. Here are some of my values and practices that guide my filming and editing style. If they resonate with you, I think we’d be a great fit!
Value in video
Pictures make me smile, but always leave me wanting more. I choose video over other mediums for its power to use images, sound, and motion to immerse us in a whole feeling. The moves of your first dance, your father’s voice as he toasts your new beginnings, your daughter running into your arms at full speed. It invites you to experience those moments over and over again; and when filmed by someone else, maybe even see things you missed the first time.
honesty + authenticity
I love filming events as they naturally unfold. My priority is to meet my people where they’re at to create an environment that gives them the freedom to live in the moment, and the permission to be their awesome selves without hesitancy. To me, filming something posed or unnatural defeats the purpose. I’ll sacrifice aesthetics in the name of catching real moments any day. This means my films can sometimes have imperfections, but you probably won’t notice because you’ll be too busy crying/laughing.
the story is in the details
When you reflect back on a memory, what hits you right in the feels? For me it’s the details; the nostalgia-soaked but often forgotten details. These could be physical objects, a special spot, or a ridiculous inside joke. Whatever they are for you, I strive to include them in your film because they’re the secret ingredient to crafting something meaningful and unique to you. For this reason, I love getting to know my clients ahead of time through a couple in-person or virtual meetups!
Still Reading?!
in films and in life, it’s all about the people. these are mine.
Chris + lenny
My little family and my whole world. I’ve pointed the camera at my husband Chris probably 10 million times over the last 13 years. How could I not? He has been the main character and my reason in life. Lenny joined us only two short years ago and has arguably stolen the show and definitely our hearts.
the mason family
My parents and 3 brothers; the ones I called home for most of my life. They taught me time is precious and home videos are invaluable. Nothing brings me joy like watching my dad bounce us on his knee making us play air guitar to his favourite song, hearing my mom sing to us on the front porch of the cabin, or feeling the excitement of welcoming our baby brother into the world.
Photo by Sparrow Photography
The friend fam
My crew, each one of them incredibly special. From snowboarding to house boating, sleepovers to wedding days, these guys make every experience one worth documenting. There’s no anxiety like having my camera die on one of our adventures. They are the reason for my developing smile lines and my overspending on media storage devices.
