Hi, I’m Tess .
I’m a NYC-based documentary filmmaker & photographer working with mission-oriented organizations and cultural institutions to create honest, human work.
I’m a NYC-based documentary filmmaker & photographer working with mission-oriented organizations and cultural institutions to create honest, human work.
Photo by Christine Kozak Photography
(Some things) I make
‣ Short docs for businesses shaping community life & cultural organizations
‣ Documentary series following a program, campaign, or community over time
‣ Profile pieces centered on makers, artists, leaders & community voices
‣ Video & photo portraits rooted in authenticity
How I work
I work with what I have, staying grounded in what's possible within the parameters of we're working with. 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 businesses shaping community life & cultural organizations
‣ Documentary series following a program, campaign, or community over time
‣ Profile pieces centered on makers, artists, leaders & community voices
‣ Video & photo portraits rooted in authenticity
How I work
I work with what I have, staying grounded in what's possible within the parameters of we're working with. 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 & clear communication.
Anyone who appreciates a type-A brain in a creative's body.
People that value heart & collaboration.
People who honor process as much as product.
Those who practice honesty, kindness & clear communication.
Anyone who appreciates a type-A brain in a creative's body.
My Background
I produced for brands like Pepsi, Frito-Lay, and Cisco -- work that taught me how to organize chaos, lead teams, and keep things moving when plans change.
In 2020, I confronted a fear that had kept me from my biggest dream: I taught myself how to use a camera (I could barely carry), 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. (And I own dumbbells now.)
I've learned how to do a bit of everything -- I can carry a project solo as an end-to-end creator. It's given me freedom, resourcefulness, and independence. But it's also made me deeply appreciative of good collaborations. If you have gotten this far - reach out :)
I produced for brands like Pepsi, Frito-Lay, and Cisco -- work that taught me how to organize chaos, lead teams, and keep things moving when plans change.
In 2020, I confronted a fear that had kept me from my biggest dream: I taught myself how to use a camera (I could barely carry), 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. (And I own dumbbells now.)
I've learned how to do a bit of everything -- I can carry a project solo as an end-to-end creator. It's given me freedom, resourcefulness, and independence. But it's also made me deeply appreciative of good collaborations. If you have gotten this far - reach out :)