I am Toby Johnston, a seasoned DP/Camera Operator based in the vibrant city of Atlanta, GA. With over 14 years of dedicated experience in the dynamic realm of the film industry, I have passionately contributed my skills to an array of creative endeavors, ranging from blockbuster movie productions and captivating live broadcasts to engaging commercials, evocative music videos, compelling corporate brand films, and even the nimble execution of run-and-gun documentary-style projects.
Throughout my journey, I've had the privilege of collaborating with renowned equipment brands such as Red, Arri, Sony, and Panasonic, harnessing cutting-edge technology to transform visions into captivating visual narratives. My commitment to excellence extends beyond the latest gadgets, as I've also cultivated an extensive expertise in the art of lenses. My personal hobby of collecting and delving into the world of vintage lenses allows me to infuse projects with distinctive and unique visual aesthetics, enriching the storytelling experience.
In every frame I capture, I strive not just to document but to inspire, enlighten, and evoke emotions. My unwavering dedication to the craft, coupled with a deep-rooted passion for visual storytelling, fuels my relentless pursuit of excellence, and I look forward to collaborating with visionaries like you to bring your creative concepts to life.
Experience
+Freelance Filmmaker/ Director of Photography/ Director - 2017-2022.
I work with clients and coworkers to find the “why” in each project. Once I know the why, I strive to find the visual language that matches the true spirit of each project…Then I nerd out on lenses, cameras, and lights. I have worked with a diverse client-base, from PayPal, Lendmark, and Anthem Health, to Toyota and Continental Tire. I have also been pursuing feature films. I have worked on two feature films as an Operator, and one as a Director of Photography from 2018-2022.
Director Of Photography Character/Editor/DIT, Expedition Overland – 2012/2014-2015
With sponsorship from Toyota, General Tire, ExOfficio, TAD, Mountain Khakis, Red Oxx, and a bunch of other adventure/car brands, Expedition Overland filmed a docu-reality show covering their adventures driving from Bozeman Mt. to the Arctic Ocean in Northern Canada. The other season I worked on covered Bozeman to the Darian Gap North of Columbia. -My roles included filming every waking moment, being a character, working with audio, cooking sometimes,Offloading all media to drives and doing backups at the end of each day. Then editing the season.
Director Of Photography /Director, Bethel Music: Redding, Ca - 2015-2017
Bethel Music, a record label in Redding Ca. where I worked with multiple music artists to create their music videos, promotional content, and live performances.
Director Of Photography /Management, Bethel Media: Redding, Ca – 2007-2014
As the Director Of Photography and Manager at Bethel Media I was in charge of overseeing a team of operators and directors. Bethel Media streamed 3 broadcasts a week to over 120 Nations. Content ranged from live talk shows to concerts and plays.
Skills
Camera Operation- Camera operator for 15 yrs. Camera Systems- proficient with Arri, Sony, Panasonic, Blackmagic, etc. Director of Photography- DP for 10 yrs. Gimble Operator- Full sized Ronin/Movi, any small ones. Dolly Work- Dana,Fisher/Chapman, motorized, cable cam. Creative Direction- I have worked with a lot of clients and teams to problem solve, hone, and dream projects into existence and on screens. Lighting- I can do set and studio lighting. Outdoor, run and gun.
References
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