Award-winning creatives on a quest for better stories. LA | SF | DEN | AUS | NYC
Michael Zeligs
Director of Creative Services at Start Motion Media. Michael is the founder and managing producer of Start Motion Media, with over a decade of experience in video production and a degree in Communications and Multimedia Engineering from Stanford University’s acclaimed CCRMA program:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. He has built an award-winning studio known for pairing cinematic excellence with measurable marketing results:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. Michael’s campaigns have generated over $800 million in client revenue and fundraising:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} across tech, nonprofit, wellness, and clean energy sectors. His standout achievements include creating a viral product video for the BauBax travel jacket that helped drive $9 million in sales:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} and producing green energy advocacy films showcased at COP28:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}. Under Michael’s leadership, Start Motion Media’s content has achieved billions of views annually, and he has led video-first strategies for brands like Amazon, Terabase Energy, Intersect Power, and HDS Global to elevate their visibility:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
Alex Cruzvergara
Cinematographer & Producer, and founder of East Broad Media in San Francisco. Alex has built a reputation for “bringing creative visions to life through dynamic video content”:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}. He has spearheaded projects ranging from national TV commercials to artistic short films, always leveraging mastery of lighting and composition to captivate audiences:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}. As the principal of East Broad Media, Alex leads a full-service production team:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}, assembling bespoke crews to execute each client’s vision with technical precision. His portfolio spans work for global brands and creative ventures alike, each film marked by high production value and a keen cinematic eye. In collaboration with Start Motion Media, Alex’s expertise shines through in every frame, ensuring that each project is visually striking and strategically effective in meeting the client’s goals.
Christopher “Chris” Cole Harder
Director & Director of Photography. Christopher (professionally known as Chris Cole) is a visionary filmmaker whose career spans nearly two decades:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. Born in Aspen, Colorado and raised in Maui, he launched his film career at 17 as a news camera intern in Hawaii, and by 19 he was working for two production companies while traveling the world to refine his craft:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. In that time he chronicled corporate events for Fortune 500 clients and crafted cinematic wedding films in exotic locales, developing a versatile style from documentary realism to artful, emotive storytelling:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}. As a senior Director of Photography and creative director at Start Motion Media, Chris brings technical expertise and artistic flair to the studio’s most ambitious films:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. He has a distinctive ability to convey each story in a variety of creative ways, always focused on the client’s perspective, which ensures every production resonates emotionally with viewers while meeting the project’s objectives:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
Ian Shine
Director of Photography & Wine Industry Specialist. Ian is a Sonoma County-based filmmaker renowned for his work in the wine and hospitality sector. An entrepreneur at heart, he started his own video production business at 18 and pursued a career in video marketing that truly connects:contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}. He specializes in creating films that “resonate with your target audience and convey your message in its most compelling form”:contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}, blending marketing savvy with cinematic technique. As the Video Specialist and General Manager at Keith Concepts Productions, Ian leads a team focused on high-impact video content for wineries and premium brands:contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}. In partnership with Start Motion Media, he has produced stunning vineyard tours, winemaker documentaries, and culinary vignettes that showcase the essence of Northern California’s wine country. Ian’s deep understanding of branding, combined with his mastery of camera work and lighting, ensures each project is both beautiful and effective in engaging its intended audience.
Paul Shirley
Videographer & Documentary Filmmaker based in Austin, Texas. Paul is a multifaceted content creator known for his adaptability and creative drive:contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}. A native Austinite with a passion for travel, he has made a name for himself by being able to “do it all” – clients often refer to him as their “one-man-band” for handling shooting, editing, and even motion graphics single-handedly:contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}. Paul specializes in time-lapse photography and landscape cinematography, capturing the passage of time and breathtaking scenery with equal skill:contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}. His philosophy is simple: everyone has a story, and visual media gives us a chance to tell it in a unique way. At Start Motion Media, Paul brings this ethos to life by producing engaging narratives for brands and nonprofits. His ability to wear many hats ensures efficiency and consistency, making him a valuable collaborator who can see a project through from concept to final cut.
Justin Bilancieri
Documentary Filmmaker & Director of Photography. Justin is a Colorado-based filmmaker and storyteller who blends creativity with advocacy. He gained early recognition for independently directing and producing the feature-length documentary Sustainable America (2011):contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}, which explores progress toward a more sustainable way of life. A true creative polymath, Justin subscribes to a “plork” philosophy – treating play and work as one – engaging passionately in filmmaking, photography, music, writing, and even organic gardening:contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}. This multidisciplinary approach fuels his unique voice in visual storytelling. At Start Motion Media, Justin channels his technical skills and artistic sensibility into purpose-driven projects ranging from brand anthems to crowdfunding videos. His work is not only visually compelling but also meaningful, reflecting a commitment to inspire positive change through media.
Caroline Gallagher
Post-Production Director & Editor. Caroline is a veteran post-production expert whose career has spanned news, entertainment, and digital media. She cut her teeth as a tape editor in news, most notably at CNN’s Los Angeles bureau, with stints at BET and Lifetime Television:contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}. In the years that followed, she expanded into commercial production as a senior editor in Boston. Caroline now specializes in polishing high-end product videos for tech startups and was recently in post-production on a Netflix pilot series:contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}. As Start Motion Media’s Director of Post Production, Caroline ensures that every frame meets the highest standards of quality and narrative clarity. She expertly weaves footage, sound, and VFX into cohesive stories, transforming raw footage into compelling narratives that engage viewers and elevate the client’s message.
William Ewart
Associate Producer & Visual Storyteller. William is an upstate New York native with a strong foundation in photography and storytelling. He earned his B.A. from Eastern Mennonite University, double-majoring in Photography and Digital Media with a minor in Journalism:contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}. After college, he worked on documentary shoots, promotional videos, and independent films in the Rochester, NY area:contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}, always striving for authenticity and creative excellence. At Start Motion Media, William brings his diverse skill set to coordinating projects from concept through completion. His calm professionalism and problem-solving mindset help maintain smooth production processes and the high quality that Start Motion Media promises its clients. William’s background behind the camera and in the editing suite enables him to support each project’s visual narrative and logistical needs with equal proficiency.
Everton Melo
Associate Producer & International Filmmaker. Everton is a dynamic Brazilian filmmaker and producer bridging creative communities from São Paulo to Brooklyn. He received his B.F.A. in Film & Media Arts from Southern Methodist University in 2021, graduating with the prestigious Nash Parsley Memorial Award for outstanding creative achievement:contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}. Everton has already created more than ten short films that have screened at film festivals in over ten countries:contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}, showcasing his talent on a global stage. In 2022, he was selected for Brooklyn’s Filmshop fellowship to workshop new narrative projects:contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}. Bilingual and internationally savvy, Everton brings a global perspective and storyteller’s intuition to Start Motion Media. His fresh energy and proven creative skill make him a key contributor on projects that require cross-cultural understanding and inventive filmmaking techniques.
Tejas Doshi
Senior Creative Producer & Multimedia Specialist. Tejas is a seasoned creative producer with nearly a decade of experience spanning the San Francisco Bay Area and Houston. He founded Tej Productions, where he has collaborated with a wide range of clients to bring compelling stories to life. Over the years, Tejas has produced videos for high-profile organizations including NASA, Axiom Space, CNBC, United Airlines, Visa, Cisco, and Sequoia Capital:contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}. At Start Motion Media, Tejas oversees projects from concept through final cut, ensuring an impactful end product. He is known for crafting thoughtful, engaging content and a streamlined production process that maximizes efficiency without compromising quality. Whether developing a high-tech explainer or a heartfelt nonprofit story, Tejas’s leadership helps deliver video content that inspires and engages viewers while meeting strategic objectives.
Brandt Miller
Senior Accounts Manager & Creative Producer. Brandt is a versatile creative producer and client strategist based in Mill Valley, California. He spent nearly five years as a Creative Producer and Art Director at Start Motion Media, where he led successful video campaigns and guided clients through the production process. Brandt also worked as a writer and producer on the Integrated Experiences broadcast team at Salesforce:contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}, crafting messaging for a global audience and honing a deep understanding of brand storytelling. In his current role at Start Motion Media, Brandt serves as the bridge between the client’s vision and the creative team’s execution. His strategic thinking, clear communication, and editorial mindset ensure that final video content is not only artistically engaging but also aligned with the client’s marketing goals and brand voice.
Fabio Ragonha
3D Generalist & Animator. Fabio is a highly skilled 3D artist from São Paulo, Brazil, celebrated for his imaginative visuals and technical excellence. With almost 20 years in the industry:contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}, he has contributed to a vast array of projects including television commercials, digital media campaigns, and immersive product visualizations. Fabio has collaborated on animation projects with cutting-edge companies like Tesla and Airbus’s Skyted venture:contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}, helping to create compelling product animations and visual effects. At Start Motion Media, Fabio elevates the studio’s capabilities in animation and motion design. His mastery of tools such as 3ds Max, ZBrush, and After Effects allows the team to offer clients state-of-the-art 3D graphics and CGI integrations. Fabio approaches each project with inventiveness and precision, perfectly aligning with Start Motion Media’s mission to deliver modern, impactful visuals.
Senior Personal Finance Editor – Sharon Bennett is an award-winning author and editor with a diverse portfolio, including five published books. She recently authored a powerful civil rights biography that was recognized by the Bullock Texas State History Museum for its depth and insight. With contributions to over fifteen lifestyle magazines and business periodicals, Sharon brings a wealth of experience to personal finance topics. She specializes in making complex financial concepts accessible, drawing on her extensive writing background and certification in content copywriting to inform and engage readers.
Start Motion Media Production Company
Personal Finance Writer – Martin Kristof leverages real-world business experience in his financial writing. He spent 15 years in retail management, developing hands-on expertise in budgeting and operations. As a community leader and president of a youth sports nonprofit in Texas, Martin understands the importance of financial planning for families and organizations. His personal background informs his approachable style, allowing him to break down personal finance advice in a relatable way. Martin’s pieces often blend practical money tips with lessons learned from his career in management and community service.
Start Motion Media Production Company
Wellness Writer – Dan Medaris is a wellness writer who brings a uniquely personal perspective to health topics. A musician, actor, and model by background, Dan openly shares his own journey overcoming stress-related health challenges. He volunteers with the Iowa League of Heroes—dressing up as a superhero to lift the spirits of children in need—demonstrating his commitment to emotional well-being and community. Dan emphasizes holistic wellness tips in his writing and champions the importance of diet and stress management in maintaining overall health.
Wellness Editor – Hannah Blutcher is an experienced storyteller and editor with a strong journalism and creative writing background. She served as Editor-in-Chief of The Sandspur, Rollins College’s newspaper, where she oversaw award-winning student journalism. Under her leadership, her team’s stories earned Gold Circle awards from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Hannah holds a degree in English and is pursuing an MFA in writing, specializing in poetry. She began working in digital marketing in 2009 after completing her journalism degree. In the wellness arena, Hannah combines her editorial rigor with a passion for people-centered stories, ensuring that health and lifestyle content is both accurate and empathetic.
How-To Business Writer – Camden Ferriss is an aspiring writer dedicated to demystifying business how-to topics for everyday entrepreneurs. Currently working in the service industry and teaching percussion on the side, Camden brings practical, on-the-ground insight to his writing. He is an avid reader and writer who is transitioning his passion into a professional career. Camden’s how-to articles often reflect his hands-on understanding of hustle and teamwork gained from the hospitality sector. He approaches business guides with creativity and enthusiasm, breaking down complex tasks into accessible, step-by-step advice.
How-To Business Editor – Greg Dasko is an entrepreneur and content creator known for his expertise in turning side hustles into successful businesses. He is the founder of the personal finance blog Studenomics and has been a full-time self-employed “side hustler” for over a decade. Greg has written extensively on topics ranging from improving credit scores to launching new ventures and buying investment properties. With approximately 14 years of experience helping young adults master their money, he provides no-nonsense guidance on launching ideas and building wealth.
Tech Writer – Jill Pathak is a technology professional and writer who bridges the gap between complex tech concepts and everyday understanding. She works as a Technical Specialist at Bloomberg LP, with expertise in triage operations, cloud infrastructure, automation, and site reliability engineering. A computer science graduate student with five years of hands-on infrastructure engineering experience, Jill is adept at tackling high-tech topics. Her articles often explain subjects like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and software development in clear, practical terms.
Start Motion Media Production Company
Tech Editor – Carman Vatu is a veteran tech journalist with a career that spans well over a decade. Starting as a technology writer in 2006, she has authored thousands of articles covering everything from breaking tech news and how-to guides to in-depth product reviews and deals. Carman has bylines in numerous major tech publications – including PCMag, MakeUseOf, Pocket-lint, Android Police, How-To Geek, and Softpedia. She has a talent for making complex technical information engaging to a general audience.
Start Motion Media Production Company
Culture Editor – Emily Halperin is a culture writer and commentator with a passion for literature, film, and the arts. A graduate of the University of Cambridge, Emily brings a rich academic perspective to her analysis of cultural trends. She has been featured on media podcasts to discuss favorite books across genres and is known for her thoughtful take on how stories and media shape society. Emily’s background includes work in communications and editorial roles that inform her nuanced view of cultural history and pop phenomena.
Start Motion Media Production Company
Culture Writer – Tatum Mitter represents a new generation of cultural voices bringing fresh energy to our team. As a Gen Z writer, Tatum is ambitious yet idealistic about the power of culture to drive change. She stays on the pulse of social media, music, and emerging art, offering insights that are both trend-savvy and thoughtful. Tatum values transparency and authenticity in storytelling, reflecting her generation’s demand for diverse perspectives and genuine voices. Her work often explores the intersection of online trends with real-world social issues.
Start Motion Media Production Company
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