MEET TARA
The lead creative //
My love for filmmaking started when I was in high school. Initially, I had no clue what I was doing. What I did know was that I was in love with the process of capturing special moments, and connecting the pieces of footage together to the beat of music. At a young age I yearned for doing things that were creatively stimulating. I was the kid with the snapshot camera, and definitely made a few cringe worthy videos, but hey we all have to start somewhere, right? During that time something clicked, and I discovered the power of capturing the special moments of our lives. I loved the process of piecing them together in a way that served as a vessel to go back in time and simply RE-LIVE. This was HUGE for me, and that spark eventually lead me to the career path I’m on. To be able to create sentimental videos that people will be able to keep forever…!? well, I think is best gift I can give.
I went on to get my Bachelor’s degree in Documentary Filmmaking, at California State University of Long Beach. I dove into my career making wedding videos, and realized early on that I wanted to expand my work into product videography, fitness content, music videos, and photography. What I love most about my job is how diverse each project is. I love working with artists, fellow creatives, couples and clients who are willing to explore the boundaries of creating something magical that inspires them and represents them in the truest way.
FAQ
How do i secure my video/photography date?
I ask for a 50% deposit and a signed contract to officially secure your shoot date. I handle these on a first-book basis, so if you’re ready to move forward, try your best not to wait!
Do you offer drone coverage?
Yes! Drone coverage in included in every project I work on.
Please note if your project is taking place in a national park, near a military base or airport, in a no-fly zone, on a day that we’re experiencing unfortunate weather, or if the wedding is far behind schedule, I will not be able to fly. It’s important to abide by laws and no fly zones to protect our lands, and make sure everybody is safe. Wish this wasn't the case, because drones are fun, but these things are super important to note:)
DO YOU TRAVEL?
Absolutely! I’m based in Nashville, Tennessee, but have traveled for projects around the U.S. and Internationally. I do keep my travel limited and only take a small handful of destination projects per year.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE TRAVEL EXPENSES AND WHAT DO THOSE LOOK LIKE?
Travel expenses apply to any project further than 100 miles from Nashville, Tennessee. (If your project is within 100 miles, then you’re good!) Because travel expenses differ so much by location, I design multiple flat rate packages that vary based on your destination (i.e. Local Destination, US or International) I find that this is the most simple and stress-free way to go about travel expenses, so that there are no surprise bills or additions to your expected price. It’s helps keep things simple!
If your shoot location is within driving distance for me, your package will include mileage and lodging for myself and my second shooter. Should we need to hop on a plane, flights, transportation, and lodging will be worked into your package structure to cover myself and my second videographer. I cover any other expenses along the way (food, tolls, parking, etc. so there won’t be any surprise bills on your end). To make the experience as stress free as possible, I book everything so that you don’t have to!
What is a second shooter?
A second shooter is a videographer hired by me to help capture extra content. Having a second shooter makes our time together more efficient, but most importantly- improves the overall quality of your final video. The second shooter is there to capture alternative angles, ensure the quality of all audio, responsible for drone footage, and help set up lights. This extra assistance helps me stay focused, making sure your story comes to life the way we want it to. Hiring a second shooter depends on the complexity of your project. On our initial conference call, we will discuss if your project will require a second shooter. Having a second shooter is mandatory for all weddings, and music videos. A second shooter is optional for photography sessions.
CAN WE PICK OUR OWN MUSIC (wedding videos)?
Unfortunately, no, but I genuinely believe it’s for the better. There are a few reasons as to why this is, both for law purposes and creative purposes. I license all of the music I use in my films, and often, most mainstream music isn’t available to license. Picking music is also a huge part of my creative process, as it’s really the driving force behind your film and where I draw a lot of emotional inspiration from. The type of music you like can be discussed in advance during your consultation, before we start shooting.
Do we need to meet you before we start shooting?
Getting to meet you in person and grab a cup of coffee to talk about our work together is ideal, but not all my clients are local! So typically I suggest we schedule a time to FaceTime or a phone call to discuss your project and get to know each other a bit before the big shoot day. I will also send you a questionnaire prior to our shoot day which you will need to fill out.
Do you help guide us before and during the shoot?
Of course! That initial consultation we brainstorm! We discuss what the main goal is for the video, we will discuss locations, pricing, and logistics of the shoot day.
DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
Yes! If your venue requires proof of vendor insurance (which some do) just let me know and I’m happy to send you my certificate of coverage.