For more than two decades, I have been blessed with the opportunities to connect and collaborate with amazing people in the Television and Film industries. In some cases, these professionals were first, my own students and I have enjoyed watching them develop through their college years and now into industry leaders and professionals.
Others are amazing people whom I have worked with on various projects, but I always know are just a phone call, text, email or tweet away when I need collaborative help on a project or advice on a next step. My contacts are you contacts, because in this world of Film and Television, you are only limited by your own fear of creativity and the inability to reach out to others. I can’t thank these wonderful people enough for helping to shape my professional paths.
The Film Industry
Noam Kroll– I have learned more about the cinematography of the film industry from Noam than just about anyone else who was labeled as a “teacher”. Noam not only took the time over the years to answer many of my dumb indy-filmmaking questions, but as a professional Cinematographer, he has also made time for many of my students. His work is beautiful and matches his approach to everything he does. Please check out his own page and discover why he is such a great professional to work with.
Primitive World Productions (Michael, Dave and Pat)- Just when you think you know a lot of stuff about cameras, gear and lenses, you have the pleasure of working with guys like this who know so much more. From their website, “PWPvideo was founded in 2000. The company found its niche early on, assisting nonprofits with their video communication needs. PWP is a boutique shop with a crew of dedicated, talented individuals, all of whom share a passion for the medium of moving pictures. With a variety of backgrounds and strengths, the PWP staff is ready, willing, and able to tackle problems and craft distinctive solutions tailored to the needs of our clients.” These guys have been invaluable to me as I have written grants, provided lessons to students of all ages as well as excel in my own filming. They are game changers. Dave Lamm, Pat Ganley and Michael Schweisheimer are top notch professionals.
http://pwpvideo.com/default.aspx
Tammy Tiehel-Stedman- Tammy is a Philadelphia-based filmmaker and producer. While attending AFI film school, Tammy produced a short called My Mother Dreams the Satan’s Disciples in New York, which went on to win the Oscar for “Best Short Film – Live Action.” In addition to film work, Tammy has produced over 100 hours of television programming for the Discovery Channel and TLC. Tammy has been such an asset to me as an educator because she is full of great tips for recognizing your passion, believing in yourself, and taking a do-it-yourself approach to pursuing your dream. She is one of the most gifted writers who also knows how to make great stories in a short amount of time.
Kathy Wickline- Kathy Wickline Casting.
When it comes to the world of casting, Kathy is nothing short of a Philadelphia institution. With over 25 years of professional experience in the biz, Kathy has truly seen it all. Her passion for helping aspiring talent break into the industry has allowed Kathy to foster the careers of countless young actors. Her resume truly speaks for itself, ranging from hit network programming, feature films, to commercials. In addition to working as a casting director, Kathy also spent five years as a top agent in Philly for both actors and models. Today, she uses her vast knowledge and wide network to help young actors find their way in the business. By training actors and models in how to achieve their goals, Kathy hopes to add them to her own talent pool and cast them in future projects. I am so honored to have been chosen by Kathy to be one of her instructors based on my own experiences.
Julianna Cossman– Jules is one of the most amazing students I have ever had- her imagination and unique ability to see the potential of a project and script coupled with a ridiculous work ethic is unrivaled. She is a perfect example of how a driven young person can make opportunities out of networking and turn her passion into the start of a career. She is a Producer and Filmmaker as well an assistant Casting Director with Kathy Wickline.
Chris Fetchko- Chris and I come from the same hometown area and I met Chris when we were both starting out. Chris had just finished his first big release and was looking to get it out there. I was the local news man who helped him do it. We have stayed in touch on every project since and he is my go to for all things Screenplay and Story Construction.. here’s his bio from IMDB, “Christopher Fetchko was born on September 7, 1974 in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, USA. He is a writer and producer, known for All in Time (2015), Everything’s Jake (2006) and Eavesdrop (2008).”
Dave Thomas- The TV, Film and English Teacher 