Growing up in Bucks County Pennsylvania, I was always peering over my dad’s shoulder as he filmed family events with his camcorder. I’d beg to hold it, eager to capture the world through that lens. This curiosity sparked something-a hobby that turned into filming skateboard tricks and goofy sketches with friends. What started as fun soon became a passion when I realized I could turn this into a career, using video to capture moments and tell stories that matter.
My path to video production wasn’t a straight line through film school. Instead, I dove into a hands-on apprenticeship at a production company, learning from pros in the industry from LA to New York. Cinematographers and editors mentored me, showing me the ropes on real client projects-not just classroom exercises. By the end, I was hooked on storytelling, seeing how every frame, every cut, could bring a narrative to life.
After nine years in the video industry, I crossed paths with Filmiamo Productions. I was immediately drawn to their vision: a scalable, collaborative team passionate about crafting powerful stories. Their commitment to meaningful video content clicked with me. I knew this was a place where I could bring my skills to life, serving clients who crave authentic connection with their client base.
Making videos is all about the process-working with a creative team like the one at Filmiamo, where ideas ping-pong and grow into something bigger. There’s nothing better than a room full of creative minds shaping a vision together. Video lighting is where I thrive. I’m fascinated by how color, quality, and placement can tweak a scene’s mood, steering the audience’s emotions. But the real magic is blending all of the tools we have. Location, lighting, editing, sound-to turn a product or service into a story that is impactful, crafting a human connection that moves people to act.
My favorite part of working at Filmiamo is the team dynamic. We’re always collaborating and creating, whether we’re brainstorming or refining a video draft. I’ll send an edit to the group, and we’ll dig in. Tweaking the music to match the vibe, adjusting pacing, or fine-tuning color grading to deepen the story. Everyone’s voice matters, and that collaboration makes our work stronger. Our clients are incredible as well. We’ve built real relationships with them, and it’s a privilege to create visuals that don’t just look good but connect deeply. I love how we can scale up for big productions or keep it lean, adapting to whatever the project demands.
One memory stands out: filming the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy for American Airlines. We took WWII veterans, many over 100 years old, back to where they fought. One moment on Omaha Beach, I captured a veteran standing at the water’s edge, looking out. I’ll never know what memories flooded his mind as I filmed him, but it was an honor to capture. Trips like that, meeting people and cultures worldwide, sharpen my craft and remind me why I do this.
At my core I’m driven by connection, listening to what lights people up and weaving that into stories. Great stories tap into this. Those deep, universal experiences we all recognize instinctively. At Filmiamo, I help make shots that don’t just “look pretty” but amplify the narrative, ensuring every choice-from planning to delivery-carries the vision through. That’s what sets us apart, and it’s why I love being part of this team.
Written by: Josh Layton
