My Background
I am a Hispanic American photojournalist born in Brooklyn, NY. I specialize in technical field production, so I spend my days driving a news truck around New York City. I film and edit noteworthy events, transmitting finished packages and live shots to my news station. I also shoot freelance documentary projects through Drum Circle Media, partnering with news services to deliver stories that reach deeper than the headlines.
I bring a cinematic aesthetic to the news I shoot and produce.
I enjoy being in the field, the adventure of truth-seeking, and chasing the impossible challenge of perfect technical proficiency.
My work is often informed by my love of history and our place within it, and I occasionally put that passion to use as a licensed New York City tour guide. I also use my free time to play chess and pool, where my best efforts at both have left me only slightly better than an average player :)
Documentary Philosophy
Documentary filming is simple, but not easy. You have to let the characters drive the narrative - which means you must stay out of their way. To do that - you must know your gear like your own limbs, arrive early, and maintain a calm state of mind. I believe great audio makes for great video, and I tell stories of all types in three acts.
I work hasty and smooth to overcome the observer effect. I don't want sources to lose their nerve because I'm fussing with the lights or triple-checking my microphone. Once they're ready to talk, every moment of set up can steal a moment of authenticity. I prioritize authenticity.
Education
"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education." - Mark Twain
John Jay College
Master of Arts: Criminal Justice
Counterterrorism Specialization
Columbia University
Master of Science: Documentary Production
Master of Science: Investigative Journalism
Brooklyn College
Bachelor of Science: Broadcast Journalism
Defense Information School
Honor graduate of both Basic Public Affairs Specialist Course and Broadcast MCF Course.
I was deeply honored when the 2016 class of Columbia University's documentary program voted for me to be their graduation speaker. You can hear my remarks to my fellow graduates by clicking the photo to the right (or above if you're using a mobile device).
Mentorship
I am the board chairman of Military Veterans in Journalism, where we help veterans develop careers in news media. I also teach technical video editing and field production classes at City College of New York. I've lectured at NYU, New York Film Academy and Columbia University, and I'm a Brooklyn college Alumni Mentor and an Overseas Press Club Foundation board member. I think my work in mentorship is the most important thing I do with my time, and I'm grateful to report the coming generation of journalists is full of smart, diverse, talented, and compassionate people.
Have camera -will travel
I've had the privilege of working with gifted producers, photographers and journalists throughout my professional journey. I aspire to their courage and enthusiasm in every project I take on. My work has appeared on VICE HBO, 48 Hours, CBS Evening News, PIX 11 in New York, Spike TV, CBSN Originals, Fox Nation, Task & Purpose, and the Military Veterans in Journalism blog. I have filmed in too many countries and states to list here, finding true stories by challenging people's assertions, observing the environment thoughtfully, gathering and analyzing data, and reporting what I know. I love being new places and meeting new people, and I bring an energy to the set that encourages everyone to be themselves and share their story. Get in touch with me if you want to make something beautiful.
