Discover Top Freelancers in Rockford, Illinois, USA

My journey as a filmmaker started with a childhood love of Hollywood blockbusters and has matured into a documentary career that blends the personal with the socially conscious. Thus far, my documentaries have examined such issues as the struggles of modern families, the difficulties of transitioning into adulthood and community's impact on our lives. Each of these issues holds a personal importance in my own life, but my films examine these issues not through an autobiographical portrayal, but by looking at the world around me. As I complete my Masters of Fine Arts in documentary film, it is clear that education and social awareness are important aspects in my life. I see myself as a student of the world and of the city of Chicago. I believe it is my duty as a documentary filmmaker to learn as much as I can about our society and to honestly present it to my audience. I believe if you just take the time to listen; friends, neighbors and people you would often overlook can tell you the most extraordinary story. My films aim to capture these tales of individuals and by examining the singular, we as an audience can see how society is impacted as a whole.

• Documentary DP
• Sound Mixer

I am a journalist who has worked in the field of print, documentary and multimedia journalism for over ten years. My work has appeared in the New York Times, the Tico Times, the International Herald Tribune and the Chicago Tribune. And my production work has aired on the History Channel, the Weather Channel, the Outdoor Life Network and PBS. As a print journalist and documentary field producer and reporter, I have a commitment to get every angle of the story by finding the people, places and nuances that matter to help to bring a story to life for the reader or viewer. My proudest accomplishment to date is creating the Through Her Eyes Project, a multimedia project that captures and showcases the stories of girls and women who play sports in the developing world.  I started the project in Ecuador where I interviewed over 100 female athletes of every skill level and photographed and filmed them on courts, fields and streets across the country to demonstrate the benefits that women in developing countries gain from involvement in sports.  In 2012, I was named a Woman of Promise by the YWCA Evanston, and was profiled as a Woman Working To Do Good by the White House.

• Documentary DP

I'm a trained video journalist and writer with an eye for stories that resonate long after they air. Trained at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, I have work experience in both public radio (at WBEZ, Chicago's NPR station) and public TV (WTTW, Chicago's PBS station). I know how to field produce, as well as shoot and edit video. My passion lies in highly produced, long-form stories that expose viewers to worlds they wouldn't be able to access otherwise. I've received a few honors for my work, including the Roy W. Howard Award for National Collegiate Reporting, the South Asian Journalists Association's Undergraduate Award, the American Scholastic Press Association Award for Best Editorial, and the American Association of University Women Excellence in Writing Award. I'm looking for opportunities to tell stories in the Chicago area, where I currently live, and in New York City, where I plan to relocate soon.

• Documentary DP

Im a One Man Band, Backpack Journalist, Video Journalist, Multimedia Reporter, Digital Journalist, Preditor (Producer/editor). Call me what you want, maybe except the last one. Whatever the title is, I do the majority of the production myself. From setting up lights, sound, shooting, reporting, editing, producing and writing. Just a few weeks after my 22nd birthday I moved to Chicago. My friend was a stockbroker and we decided to head out here together. Most people told me I was crazy. Photojournalists rarely start their careers in a market as large as Chicago. Almost eight years later Im still here. Ive worked for Tribune, NBC Universal, and Im now with ABC. As for my style, you name it, I've done it. News, features, special projects, documentaries. I pride myself on being versatile. I've also had a great deal of experience in documentaries. In 2009 I directed my first doc, Under The Ice. It did well and aired on PBS stations in Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. It went on to win two Chicago/Midwest Emmys in 2010. I have been a reporter, photojournalist, video editor, producer and writer. In my heart I'm just a storyteller. Thanks for reading.

• Documentary DP

Ken is a multi-instrumentalist musician and composer. His obsession with sound, recording, and creating moving and affecting aural environments began at a very young age and has been a constant driving force throughout his life. He is passionate about manipulating sound and music, linking people to their memories, allowing listeners to paint the canopies of their inner experiences with new and exciting images. He works relentlessly to understand how and why sound and music are so integral to the human experience. He has composed scores for over 20 theatrical productions and since 2010 has created scores for feature films, short films, and advertisements, as well as produced music for hip-hop, pop and soul artists. He currently creates music out of his home studio in Chicago where he lives with his partner and their son.

• Music Composer
• Sound Designer
• Fixer

Drawing from a wealth of experiences, filmmaker Latesha Dickerson uses her diverse professional background to bring a unique perspective to her work. With over two decades of service within Chicago’s public schools, where she initially flourished as an educator, Latesha intimately understands the complexities of life within urban communities. Her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices is evident in her producer credits for documentaries like "Firsthand: Segregation" (WTTW Digital/WORLD Channel’s Local, USA) and "Any Given Day" (WORLD Channel’s America ReFramed.) Latesha has also served as an impact producer and strategist both creating and implementing impact campaigns for the films ‘63 Boycott (Kartemquin Films) and Any Given Day. Through her storytelling, Latesha strives to shine a light on underrepresented narratives, fostering empathy and understanding in audiences worldwide.

• Field Producer
• Non-Fiction Film Director
• Line Producer / On-Location

Shatterglass Studios is an award winning new media development and film and video production company dedicated to producing high-quality, high-impact media that resonates with the modern and multi-sensory appetite of today’s culture. Shatterglass Studios is a creative agency of passionate filmmakers who pride themselves on understanding the intricacies of influential and meaningful new media, video production and film. With a subtle balance of design, composition and emotion, we create television commercials, corporate branding videos, industrial videos, promotional videos and films. We’ve had the honor of being recognized for our work with awards such as a Regional Emmy from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Throughout all of it, we try to keep one concept at the forefront: Emotional impact through storytelling.

• Commercial DP
• Documentary DP
• Sound Mixer
• Translator
• Video Editor - News
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Video Editor - Commercial

Dale is a cinematographer with over 20 years experience specializing in documentary and testimonial driven campaigns. His company, Crossroads Productions, operates as a full-service production company. With a national network of trusted creative partners, we are able to facilitate any size video production. From national spot work to live streaming events, Crossroads Productions has been a trusted ally for agencies, independent producers and broadcast clients. He has the pleasure of working with major brands such as American Family Insurance, Keen Footwear, Sub-Zero and Wolf Appliance Company, Harley-Davidson, Mazda and Duluth Trading Company capturing honest and beautiful images that convey a powerful message. He has an extensive list of broadcast clients such as ESPN, Discovery, Big Ten Network, PBS and PBS Kids.

• Documentary DP
• Commercial DP
• Corporate Videographer
• News Shooter / Video Journalist
• Fixer

Open Fire Media provide turn-key video production services for companies such as Lexus, NFL, Tennessee Tourism, Inkbox and many others with a speciality in creating visuals that are distinctively authentic. Whether you’re looking to create a corporate video for your next tradeshow, a short commercial to send out to all your clients, or a video for online distribution that tells your company’s amazing story – we're dedicated to helping you get the very most for your money by creating a video that’s exactly what you’re looking for – and then some. From 3,000 feet in the air to 100 feet under water – and everything in between – the scope of our filming capacity is extensive. Because we have the right film tools – and the creative horsepower to maximize their potential – we create durable videos that work for you.

• Production Company
• Documentary DP
• Fixer
• News Shooter / Video Journalist
• Commercial DP
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Video Editor - Commercial
• Production Assistant
• Corporate Videographer

I have worked with video from a early age gaining most of my valuable skills through hands on professional experience. I have worked in many different positions in various sizes of production. I'm interested in finding stories that inspire people to look at social and cultural affairs in a different light. I'm confident that once I find a story I'm passionate about it, I will be able to contribute a valuable and substantial perspective on the most relevant and crucial topics. I'm very much interested in economic inequality and the people who do their part to work to resolve it. I also believe in addressing environmental concerns. My passion for art creates great interest in the ways technology is constantly challenging artists and developing artistic techniques. I also am aware of the influences political actions have on any of the preceding interests.

• Documentary DP
• Sound Mixer
• Commercial DP
• Creative Director
• Production Company
• Production Assistant
• Video Editor - News
• Video Editor - Commercial
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Mobile Journalist / Livestreamer
• HD Live Operator
• Immersive/Spatial Video Capture
• Editorial Photographer / Photojournalist
• Audio Storyteller

Hi, my name is Jennifer Dzikowski and I have a passion for writing about two very different subjects; crime and herbal supplements/alternatives to traditional Western medicine. I care strongly about justice, and love to follow stories from beginning to end...delving in and making sure nothing is missed. In the past, I wrote mainly breaking news/crime for Heavy.com, and also for Nancy Grace's Crime Online. I still regularly participate on Grace's Podcast, "Crime Stories With Nancy Grace." Additonally, I have written for several herbal companies. As a journalist, I love to interview those in the stories, to give readers the best glimpse of every angle possible. I gather information that other outlets haven't yet discovered, and pride myself on not simply regurgitating what is already known.

• Reporter / Journalist
• Fixer
• Production Assistant
• Copy Editor

I am a highly skilled, high performance worldwide storyteller and videographer (Film, Video and Multimedia Content Producer) specializing in real time delivery of film, video and multimedia content. I have special expertise in full service video production for the Unionized Electrical and Construction Industries. Through film, video, and multimedia content I create a compelling visual impact and emotional connection with audiences while blending today's digital world with real personalities, events and experiences in first person and in real time. I develop creative high quality film, video and multimedia content, which is designed to send a message, influence and engage with audiences. I am an entrepreneur of exceptional ability, a musician, and a creative graphic design artist. I am fluent in both Spanish and English and hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics.

• News Shooter / Video Journalist
• Documentary DP
• Commercial DP
• Corporate Videographer
• Video Editor - News
• Video Editor - Commercial
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Animator / Visual Effects Artist
• Production Company
• Line Producer / On-Location
• Senior Producer / Project Manager
• Series Producer / Show Runner
• Production Coordinator / Crewing
• Creative Director
• Post-Production Manager
• Sound Mixer
• Fixer
• Production Assistant

Teddy "Waffles" Wachholz is a cinematographer, producer, and editor with an Emmy Award to his name. Teddy's film & video journey commenced in his early years, blossoming into a passion that guided him to Columbia College Chicago. Since then, His focus has been on an array of projects, including commercials, documentaries, and corporate and branded content. Notable clients and organizations entrust Teddy with their vision, a list that includes Red Bull, SC Johnson, Speedway, Wells Fargo, MB Financial Bank, The Chicago Bulls, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and even the White House. Specializing in comprehensive A-Z video production, Teddy enjoys the process from the inception of an idea to the delivery of the final cut, ensuring each project is a hit in its own right.

• Documentary DP
• Video Editor - News
• Editorial Photographer / Photojournalist
• News Shooter / Video Journalist
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Video Editor - Commercial
• Commercial DP

Hello! I'm Tori Chiarello, a seasoned graphic designer with over five years of experience in transforming ideas into visually compelling stories. I specialize in creating engaging designs and presentations that captivate and inspire. My skills span across Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and advanced AI-driven design tools, ensuring your brand's vision comes to life with precision and flair. ✨ Why Collaborate with Me? Creative Excellence: I have a passion for visual storytelling, turning complex concepts into stunning visuals. Versatile Skillset: Proficient in digital content creation, from dynamic social media posts to comprehensive brand identities. Client-Centric Approach: Dedicated to helping women and small businesses succeed by telling their unique stories. Let's create something extraordinary together!

• Graphic Designer
• Digital Content Creator

In the heart of Chicago, a musical polymath and digital artisan emerges, shaping his narrative through an intricate fusion of audio visual creativity. Maasai Amewa known professionally as M.S.I is a maestro of independent music, and visionary owner of the music publishing company, AM Muse Collab. Specializing  in Hip-Hop, Electronica, New Age, and EDM. Independently releasing 50 songs, he showcases a commitment to autonomy and artistic integrity. Each composition is a testament to his exploration of genres and styles, reflecting a diverse musical palette.  As a visual artist, he crafts captivating  visual stories, vacillating between Afro-futuristic, Cyberpunk, steampunk, intergalactic, and watercolor styles with a Chicago native flair. His creations seamlessly weave together a tapestries of culture, technology, and imagination.

• Art Director
• Storyboard Artist
• Audio Storyteller
• Music Composer
• Animator / Visual Effects Artist

I'm Fran, 28, Philosophy Major and Film MFA, with an interest in story telling, be it still images or 24fps. I've been doing principal cinematography for several projects in the west area of Puerto Rico, Chicago, and New York. Received a couple of National Awards for Best Cinematography in a short film, and recently curated my first photographic series titled 'Darklight'. Lately I've been focusing more on directing, since I wanna employ my cinematographic skills in telling my own stories. Occasionally I work with Discovery Communications LATAM hand picking stock images for their web platforms, and encoding selected media. On my free time I volunteer as a Barista at a local coffee shop, since I find that the best stories to tell often come from the people around us.

• Commercial DP
• Fixer
• Editorial Photographer / Photojournalist
• Documentary DP
• Sound Mixer
• Translator
• Video Editor - News
• News Shooter / Video Journalist
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Video Editor - Commercial
• Creative Director
• Production Company
• Production Assistant
• Gaffer
• Grip
• Sound Designer
• Mobile Journalist / Livestreamer
• Audio Storyteller

I tell public health stories that shape a vision for improving the health of our neighborhoods. Public health has increased human life spans by 25 years in the last decade. This accomplishment was achieved with really simple changes - toilets, clean drinking water, vaccines, seat belts, smoke-free air. So why does this story take a back seat to stories of disease, hospitals, and insurance coverage? Behind each simple public health intervention is a group of invisible public health heroes. Together, they literally changed the trajectory of our lives. I find these storytellers, celebrate them, and add their story to a master narrative of health and wellness. We can make our communities healthier, we've done it, and we will do it again.

• Documentary DP

Stacey Nash is a documentary filmmaker specializing in commercial and long-form storytelling for brands. She is a director with a producer's toolbox of skills - which means she easily balances the creative with the logical. Her ability to mine emotion out of any situation is her secret weapon – from the deeply emotional to the raucously hilarious. She can put anyone at ease in front of the camera and intuitively understands the big picture. ​She has won multiple awards for her work including an Emmy Award with NBC Olympics and the International Corporate Citizenship Film Festival. ​Will crush you at trivia on the topic of olympic sports but ONLY that topic. Very poor loser when it comes to card games - that last bit is unrelated to career highlights but important to know.

• Line Producer / On-Location
• Production Coordinator / Crewing
• Creative Director
• Non-Fiction Film Director
• Field Producer
• TV News Producer
• Post-Production Manager
• Copywriter
• Executive Producer
• Fixer

Colin has loved music ever since his introduction to piano at the age of 6 and cello at 11. He produced his first album as a high school sophomore in 2002 under the pseudonym "Xolin" (pronounced ZOL-in). Since then, Colin has self-produced 6 additional albums. After graduating from high school in 2005, Colin lived with a host family in Costa Rica while volunteering at a butterfly farm from February to August 2006. Within the first three months of total immersion, he was conversationally fluent in Spanish. While attending Columbia College Chicago, Colin acquired a myriad of audio skills, including microphone placement and effective music mixing. Thanks to a summer internship with a local film company, he also discovered a passion for film sound, both location and post.

• Sound Mixer
• Sound Designer
• Music Composer

Chicago born, suburban raised, I acquired a taste for illustrating and creating visual stories at the age of 4. Fast forward and I’m messing around in animation and post production. With a Bachelors of Arts in Animation under my belt, I’m interested in working in digital creative efforts and collaborative animation projects. Having experience in a handful of internships, I’m always looking for opportunities to grow and become involved in the animation industry. One thing that gets me in the zone is when an idea or concept is successfully brought to life/shared with the audience. Communicating in that level with others inspires me to continue to work and practice in the craft, and it’s why I love it.

• Video Editor - News
• Video Editor - Commercial
• Video Editor - Documentary
• Motion Graphics Designer
• Animator / Visual Effects Artist
• Audio Storyteller
• Fixer