Hi, I’m R Jay!
I’m a filmmaker and photographer based in Virginia.
I’ve been capturing stories since I was a kid, shooting black-and-white photos on an old film camera and recording my friends with a Hi-8 camcorder. Since college, I spent years working in I.T. while constantly honing my craft on sets and behind cameras in my free time. That background in tech is why my website is so full of detail! I leave no stone unturned because I want to give you the most transparent, stress-free experience possible. Investing in creative work for your business or personal life can feel daunting, but clear expectations make sure your investment is worth every penny.
Every single role I’ve held, from production assistant, to D.I.T., to editor, cinematographer, writer, and director, has taught me something that makes the next project better.
On the filmmaking side: I partner with indie productions that need an experienced, versatile collaborator, and brands that need video delivered with care and professionalism.
On the photography side: I help companies build visual consistency, and I help families and partners hold onto the moments that matter most.
The most important thing to know about me is that I care deeply about the work, I respect your time and investment, and I make sure everyone on set feels safe and comfortable. The best results come from people who feel good about what they’re doing, and that environment starts with me. I love doing this, and I bring that enthusiasm to every project.
When I'm not working, you can usually find me watching a hockey game (the Kraken are just in a transition period), taking long drives with a 2000s pop-punk or emo album on full blast, or hiking (and traveling out to the PNW every chance I get). I am also always down to make the case for Burger King's Chicken Sandwich. Don't knock it until you've tried it.
When I’m off the clock, I talk to my late mother along coastal waters whenever I can (she loved the beach), I get all philosophical with my dad, and I watch my elderly dog grow cuter and crankier by the day. I hang out with old friends whenever life allows, and I get to do all of it with my patient and supportive wife by my side.
Let's build something together.
How We Start…
1. The Chat (Ideally In-Person): A conversation, virtual or in-person. Preferably in-person, because who wants to sit through another dreaded "you're muted" moment?
2. The Plan & Pricing: Reviewing and locking in your investment. The packages we discuss during our consultation are transparent and all-in-one (fair to everyone), but customizations are always on the table.
3. The Shoot: Capturing the main goal and all the spontaneous, good moments in between.
4. The Edit & Refine: Reviewing the selects or rough cuts. You share your feedback, we refine the details.
5. Delivery: Delivering your final product, polished and ready to share with whoever needs to see it.
That’s it. No surprises, no runaround.
If any of this sounds like what you're looking for, the next step is easy.