CASE STUDIES - BEACON

BEHIND THE KEY ART, GALLERY and EPK

Every now and then, a project lands in your lap that challenges you to bring every tool in your creative kit to the table—fast. Beacon, a FOX Studios thriller starring Demián Bichir and Julia Goldani Telles, was one of those projects. From a compressed pre-pro timeline to a hybrid shoot covering key art, gallery, and a full EPK package, this was about recreating the visual tone of a film—before most people have even seen a frame.

Art Direction in Motion

My job was to help define how the world of Beacon would first be seen by audiences, press, and industry. That meant working closely with the studio’s creative team to build a visual language that reflected the emotional intensity and quiet suspense at the heart of the story. The key art and gallery stills weren’t just promotional material—they were an extension of the film’s narrative voice.

SEE BTS HERE

We designed multiple lighting setups that could shift the mood instantly: high-contrast and shadowed for suspense, soft and symmetrical for character connection. Everything was done in-camera, with variations built into the shot list—tight singles, dramatic wides, full-length character moments, and key ensemble groupings. Each frame had to stand alone, but also feel cohesive across formats

Working with Demián and Julia

Working with actors like Demián Bichir and Julia Goldani Telles brings a different energy to set. They both carry a deep understanding of their characters, and it was my job to meet that with visuals that matched the depth they were bringing on screen. We moved fast—capturing subtle emotional cues and stillness between takes, while also giving them space to shift between performance and portrait.

With a tight schedule and minimal downtime, I had to create trust quickly. That means being prepared, reading the room, and knowing when to lead and when to let the talent take the moment. It's a dance, and one I never take for granted.

Directing the EPK Package

In addition to the photography, I also directed the EPK (Electronic Press Kit) interviews—those short but meaningful clips where the cast shares insight into the film. What people often don’t see is how fast these interviews need to be shot and the confines of the space available, and other PR obligations. We turned the room after stills for a video setup and kept the vibe relaxed while focusing on pulling out thoughtful snippets

Final Thoughts

This shoot went off without a hitch. That’s rare with such a short lead. But curiosity and imagination can converge even when the prep is tight. Asking precise questions and offering a variety of solutions opens the lines to feedback and helps clear the vision and once the team is aligned, it can happen. I walked away from Beacon not just proud of the work, but clearer than ever on how to bridge stills and motion, direction and photography, precision and play.

Grateful to FOX Studios for the trust—and to the entire crew who made it run smoothly.