David ‘D.I.’ Ishida | DP
David ‘DI’ Ishida is a Twin Cites based DoP, working in the freelance world for over 8 years. DI came highly recommended from several trusted sources, and it immediately became clear why. He is deeply devoted to the craft of cinematography and brings a meticulous, detail-driven approach to every aspect of the technical process. David has an extraordinary command of camera systems, lenses, and lighting, and a genuine passion for using those tools in service of storytelling. As someone who approaches this work from the actor’s side of the lens, having a collaborator with David’s depth of knowledge and precision behind the camera is invaluable. I’m incredibly excited about what we’ll be able to create together. He started in the industry working at Cinequipt (now Redstar Pictures), then freelancing as an Assistant Camera. As a DoP, he has worked with clients such as Aveda and Version1, as well as other music videos and short films. He loves the collaborative process of filmmaking, as well as fostering and growing the MN film community.
Taylor Mills | Camera Dept
Taylor is a filmmaker based in the Twin Cities, whose journey began at the age of eight with her father's old VHS camera. That early spark ignited a lifelong love for cinematic storytelling. I first worked with Taylor on the feature film Unholy Communion in Minneapolis several years ago, and when the idea for In the Lab began to take shape, she was the very first person I reached out to. Taylor brings an extraordinary combination of technical skill, professionalism, and genuine warmth to every set she steps onto. Her collaborative spirit, positive energy, and deep care for the work leave a lasting impression on everyone around her. After earning a BA in filmmaking from the University of Winnipeg, Taylor has spent the last decade working professionally as a camera operator for companies like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Vikings, VICE, Sportsman Channel, City of Minneapolis, National Park Foundation, and Save the Boundary Waters. Alongside freelancing, she works full time at Star Studio; a live, interactive television studio inside of the Children’s Minnesota Hospital.
August Fjelstad | Camera Dept
August (aka emporer Augustus) is an accomplished camera operator and A.C. based in the twin cities area since 2022, but has been passionate about camera work and brining stories to life since 2011. I first worked with August on the feature film Unholy Communion, where he got his nickname and where he operated and A.C.’d and I immediately connected with his calm, grounded presence on set. As an actor, having people around the camera who create a supportive, easygoing environment makes all the difference, and August brings exactly that energy. He’s not only a joy to work with, but an incredibly skilled Steadicam operator whose instincts for camera movement and composition elevate every scene. We’re very lucky to have him as part of the team and will be utilizing all of his talents. He has a BFA in digital video from the Institute of Production and Recording.
Nick Wright | Sound Dept
Nick Wright is a sound mixer based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a graduate of the Institute of Production and Recording (IPR), class of 2008. Over the course of his career, he has worked across the country, with much of his work centered in Minnesota and New York. I first worked with Nick on the feature film Unholy Communion several years ago, and we immediately connected. Nick brings a calm, grounded, steady presence to set along with a deep mastery of his craft. Great sound is essential to great filmmaking, and Nick’s experience and attention to detail ensure that every performance is captured clearly and with care. Nick has primarily worked on feature films, but has also contributed to numerous documentaries, commercials, and television productions. He is currently wrapping production on Season 2 of a 12-episode documentary series, where he serves as both the on-set sound mixer and the post-dialogue editor. We’re incredibly fortunate to have him as part of the team.
April Hinrichs | Hair & Makeup
April is a makeup artist with over 25 years of experience in the film and television industry. She loves helping performers feel confident and authentic on camera, and with a background in beauty and styling, she approaches makeup as both craft and storytelling—creating looks that support the actor while standing up to the technical demands of production. I first worked with April on the feature film Unholy Communion, where she quickly became a trusted collaborator and dear friend. Beyond her exceptional talent as a hair and makeup artist, April brings a deep kindness, intuition, and sense of humor that helps create the supportive environment actors need to do their best work. Her ability to help performers feel relaxed, confident, and fully themselves on camera is truly invaluable, and I can’t imagine doing this without her.
Tyler Carlson | 1st AD
Tyler is an Assistant Director based in Minneapolis who has been working in the production industry since 2019 on a wide range of films, television projects, and commercials. He is a member of the Production Workers Guild (Union 111)'. I first worked with Tyler when he served as the 1st Assistant Director on the feature film Unholy Communion in Minneapolis, and he immediately became one of my favorite ADs I’ve ever worked with. Having worked with dozens of first ADs across productions of all sizes around the world, I know how rare it is to find someone who can keep a production moving forward while still protecting the creative energy of a set. Tyler has that gift. He leads with clarity, calm, and respect, guiding the process forward without ever stifling the sacred collaborative spirit that great performances require. He’s deeply passionate about the Minnesota film community and the artists who work here, and I couldn’t be more proud to have him helping lead the team as we bring this work to life.