Hi, I’m Tess .
I’m a NYC-based documentary filmmaker & photographer working with justice-oriented organizations and cultural institutions to create honest, human work.
I’m a NYC-based documentary filmmaker & photographer working with justice-oriented organizations and cultural institutions to create honest, human work.
Photo by Christine Kozak Photography
(Some things) I make
‣ Short docs for justice-oriented & cultural organizations
‣ Profile pieces & mini-docs centered on artists, leaders & community voices
‣ Video and photo portraits rooted in authenticity
How I work
I pay attention, work with what’s in front of me, and stay grounded. Creating a safe, comfortable environment is the first thing I bring to the table. I’m enthusiastic and communicative, and I value transparency and kindness always. At the core of my practice is trust. I take seriously the responsibility of representing people and their work with honesty and care.
‣ Short docs for justice-oriented & cultural organizations
‣ Profile pieces & mini-docs centered on artists, leaders & community voices
‣ Video and photo portraits rooted in authenticity
How I work
I pay attention, work with what’s in front of me, and stay grounded. Creating a safe, comfortable environment is the first thing I bring to the table. I’m enthusiastic and communicative, and I value transparency and kindness always. At the core of my practice is trust. I take seriously the responsibility of representing people and their work with honesty and care.
Typical flow: brief + goals ‣ schedule & scout ‣ shoot day ‣ edit with check-ins ‣ final delivery
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Who I work best with
People that value heart & collaboration.
People who honor process as much as product.
Those who practice honesty, kindness & positive collaboration.
If that’s you, let's make something :)
People that value heart & collaboration.
People who honor process as much as product.
Those who practice honesty, kindness & positive collaboration.
If that’s you, let's make something :)
My Background
I spent years producing for brands like Pepsi, Frito-Lay, and Cisco -- sharpening my ability to organize chaos & lead teams.
In 2020, I confronted a fear that had kept me from my biggest dream: I taught myself how to use a camera, how to edit & how to navigate the technical side of filmmaking.
This leap opened the door to the most energizing, inspiring & purposeful work of my career.
I spent years producing for brands like Pepsi, Frito-Lay, and Cisco -- sharpening my ability to organize chaos & lead teams.
In 2020, I confronted a fear that had kept me from my biggest dream: I taught myself how to use a camera, how to edit & how to navigate the technical side of filmmaking.
This leap opened the door to the most energizing, inspiring & purposeful work of my career.