Josiah Shaw

Aspiring DP | AC/Camera Operator | Solo Filmmaker

I am a freelance filmmaker and camera assistant with over 7 years of experience working on diverse projects, from brand storytelling and commercial content to docu-style films and social media campaigns. At the end of the day, I want to capture real stories and create projects that I would want to watch. I am unsatisfied with mediocre results; I want to create the stuff that gave me goosebumps as a kid. While I’m still young in this field, I do my best to bring problem-solving skills, quick learning, and a commitment to storytelling to every project I participate in.

Freelance Filmmaker & Camera Assistant

Joeshmoe Productions | Gurnee, IL
2018 – Present (7 years)

  • Lead filmmaker and camera operator for brand storytelling, documentary, and commercial content.

  • Build and lead teams of collaborators to produce high-quality videos tailored to client needs.

  • Manage all aspects of production, from pre-production planning and storyboarding to on-set execution and post-production editing.

Regular Collaborator | Camera Operator & First AC

We Are Stucco | Evanston, IL | First ac, Grip, Filmmaker, Camera operator, PA
 2023 – Present

  • Regularly collaborate with We Are Stucco, a creative agency specializing in brand storytelling and commercial video production.

  • Fulfill various roles including First AC, Camera Operator, Videographer, and Grip across multiple projects.

  • Consistently contribute to high-quality content for clients, ensuring smooth production workflows and maintaining creative standards.

  • Worked as First AC for Meet Chicago in January 2025, responsible for camera builds, focus pulling, and coordinating with the DP.

  • Supported production as Grip on a Meet Chicago shoot in Winter 2024, providing on-set assistance with lighting and rigging.

  • Ongoing involvement in dynamic commercial shoots and brand narratives, showcasing flexibility and technical proficiency.

  • Website: wearestucco.com

Creator Camp Film Festival Trailer | Gracie Co Films | 2nd Ac
 January 2025

  • Supported the First AC in camera setup, lens changes, and equipment organization.

  • Slated scenes and maintained camera logs for the Creator Camp Film Festival trailer, contributing to a high-quality promotional piece.

Assisted in maintaining a smooth workflow on set, ensuring efficient communication between the camera team and director.

Brooks Glycerin 22 Campaign | Lincoln Rogers Productions | Grip
January 2025

  • Joined the production on the second day of shooting, supporting the camera team in the creation of a social media campaign for Brooks.

  • Assisted with camera setups, equipment management, and focus pulling during dynamic shots.

Collaborated with the production team to maintain continuity and meet creative objectives.

Communications and Media Specialist

Lakeland Church | Gurnee, IL
September 2021 – October 2023 (2 years 2 months)

  • Developed and executed strategic communication plans, including social media management, video production, and live streaming.

  • Directed and edited promotional videos, event recaps, and creative content to engage the church community.

Media Producer (Intern)

Willow Creek Community Church | Glenview, IL
June 2019 – August 2021 (2 years 3 months)

  • Assisted the Creative Director in producing video content for social media and weekend services.

  • Fulfilled multiple roles on set, including DP, Director, Audio, and Grip.

  • Edited and delivered content for social media platforms, maintaining quick turnaround times.

Media Producer (Intern)

Willow Creek Community Church | Glenview, IL
June 2019 – August 2021 (2 years 3 months)

  • Assisted the Creative Director in producing video content for social media and weekend services.

  • Fulfilled multiple roles on set, including DP, Director, Audio, and Grip.

  • Edited and delivered content for social media platforms, maintaining quick turnaround times.

Education

DePaul University

Bachelor of Arts, Cinematography and Film/Video Production
 2020 – 2024


Key Skills

  • Camera Operations: Experienced with Canon Video Equipment and industry-standard gear.

  • Technical Proficiency: Strong command of Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere Pro, After Effects).

  • Visual Storytelling: Creative approach to documentary-style filmmaking and commercial content.

  • Problem Solving: Efficient in on-set troubleshooting and dynamic shooting environments.

Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work closely with DPs, Directors, and Production Teams.