Sunbrella - Mérida — Justin Smith Studio

Sunbrella - Mérida

Director
Cinematographer
Photographer

Following behind photographer Laurie Frankel and her fantastic crew, this was about as run-and-gun as it gets. I had one giant light on wheels, the original Sony A7, and a few Leica lenses. I tossed the setup on a Rhino slider and dollied around Mérida. A few shots out in the streets were taken handheld on an old FS7. This somehow won an Addy for best Cinematography over some incredible cinematography it was up against, but we'll take it. Also, for note, Chilli's in Mexico still rips.

Agency | Wray Ward
Original Music | David Haire

Howdy, I'm Justin Smith. I work as a Creative Director for Wray Ward, overseeing their Studio offering. However, I also collaborate with other production companies across the country as a freelancer, offering my services as a Director, DP, and Photographer. If you're a nice client, I'll also handle post.

Most thirty-something, bearded, tattooed white guys with cameras will tell you that they're experts in bringing your brand to life through their unique lens and storytelling.

Damn, that's my pitch as well.

But, with decades of experience, I've formed relationships with top production crews in the US and beyond. In collaboration with clients and teams, I've been given a few regional and national trophies for my efforts in my field, which serve as great bookends!

Outside of my own weird brain, I like to tap into agency teams that help me formulate the right message rooted in insights so that the outcome of our work together is thoughtful and powerful. Most importantly, it resonates with audiences and helps build your brand.

With comfort shooting in the Studio or out in the trenches, I've earned the trust of a few of the following folks: Budweiser, Harley Davidson, Marriott, Moen, Sonos, and many more.