Chris Costello
Independent Filmmaker · Costello Digital Cinema
Springfield, IL
In My Own Words
I am an Emmy-winning filmmaker with thousands of hours of experience working on hundreds of various video projects. I possess expert level knowledge on a multitude of camera systems including RED, Arri, Canon and Sony cameras as well as being a FAA licensed drone pilot. I am a skilled video editor with a solid understanding of narrative storytelling. Inspired by skateboarding and punk music, my passion for filmmaking has been grounded in a strong DIY ethic and I pride myself in being competent, reliable and effective. I routinely put my lens in harms way to get the shot and am interested in pretty much all things that are loud, fast, and pissed off.
Work Experience
Independent Filmmaker
Costello Digital Cinema2014 – Present
I have produced/directed/edited music videos, short films, episodic series and documentaries. I have a special penchant for motorsport and action sports films and have produced content for Subaru Motorsports USA, Hoonigan Racing Division, the American Rally Association, Sunday Bikes and NBC Sports.
Video Producer
The Storyteller Studios2017 – Present
I tell stories for clients big and small from all across the United States and beyond - everything from hurricane restoration efforts in Puerto Rico to how a young girl from rural Iowa became NASA’s most senior astronaut. My job is to elevate our client’s brand(s) and connect them to their audience through the power of story. Our efforts have routinely received industry recognition and in 2020 I was awarded a Mid-America Emmy for my directorial work on a short film titled “Face to Face.” I frequently collaborate with our Senior Producer on business strategy, the development of company workflows and how to effectively lead our team (and our clients) to success.
Executive Producer
Comcast Spotlight2015 – 2017
At Comcast Spotlight, I managed and operated the production office in the Central Illinois market. I worked in partnership with the client and internal sales reps to produce targeted video advertisements for television and OTT video-on-demand services. I was in charge of conceptualizing, writing, shooting, directing and editing all video productions that came through the Spotlight office. I was also tasked with managing the production office budget, purchasing equipment, scheduling shoots and maintaining vendor relationships. I frequently worked under tight deadlines and on shoestring budgets but still managed to maintain high levels of production value and produce effective advertisements that left clients feeling confident in their marketing approach.
Cinematographer / Video Editor
The Storyteller Studios2014 – 2015
While at The Storyteller Studios (the first time), I honed my skills as a Cinematographer and was responsible for all visual aesthetics throughout production. My duties included camera prep, lensing, lighting, gripping and camera operating. I worked on many high profile projects for clients all over the Midwest and dealt closely with producers, directors, marketing managers and business owners in order to achieve the visual goals of the project.
Video Editor / Cinematographer
Crowdson Creative Media2011 – 2015
During my time at Crowdson Creative I developed extensive experience editing video content in a variety of formats. I created hundreds of videos for broadcast TV and social media. I created corporate, commercial and promotional videos for both public and private sector organizations. I collaborated frequently with agency reps and marketing execs on edits and I quickly learned how to navigate the sometimes complex bureaucratic environment of modern corporate organizations.
Sales Associate / Marketing
2one7 Skateshop2011 – 2012
I sold skateboards and skateboard accessories. I helped create promotional materials, manage shop social media accounts and led marketing campaigns. In addition, I assisted in organizing and promoting events as well as producing photo and video content for the web. Also, ate lots of Taco Bell and played Playstation.
