my work
SHORT DOCS
Producing documentaries for brands, communities, and individuals is my favorite form of filmmaking. The impact of factual storytelling is contagious and attracts action, from sales to activism.
The Patrol Life | Nordica
short doc | 2023
Through her journey as a female patroller, Andi aims to be a trailblazer for women in the ski patrolling world.
director: Marcus Brown
dop: Tava Kessler, Marcus Brown
edit, color, sound: Tava Kessler
photo: Jordan Drew
a love letter to my friends.
experimental doc | 2023
A glimpse into life, friendship, and the scary, but ever-exciting nature of growing up & not having everything figured out.
director/dop: Tava Kessler
producer/ac: Francesca Hanen
Mexico Mindset 2.0
short doc | 2024
13 friends travel to the land down south for an unforgettable week of multipitch climbing, camping, and luxuriating.
presented by: Rocky Talkie
director/dp/edit: Tava Kessler
Sendsgiving: The Epitome of the Climbing Community
short doc | 2022
This film follows John and the San Diego State Climbing Club as they venture to the Joshua Tree desert for their annual Sendsgiving celebration. From the history, to the logistics of the event, we discover the impact this gathering has on members in the club.
client: Guayakí Yerba Mate
director/dop/edit: Tava Kessler
ac: Francesca Hanen
Sculpting Focus
short doc | 2024
“When things get overwhelming I can always just sit down at my pottery wheel and just make.”
A vignette into the life of Adrian Castillo, documenting how pottery has changed his focus.
COMMERCIAL
I believe in commercials that tell stories and align customers with real products that are good for the world.
Guayakí — will belay for yerb
social climbing spot
on location in Joshua Tree, CA
Rocky Talkie Radios
social climbing spot
on location in El Potrero Chico, Mexico
HO Sports - 2024 Product Campaign
director: Marcus Brown
dop: Tava Kessler, Marcus Brown, Rob Hazelwood
drone op: Marcus Brown
edit, color, sound: Tava Kessler
Patagonia - built to pass on
30 sec spec ad
Nordica x evo - cultura project
a collaboration ski release between Nordica and evo, benefitting Latino organizations that help to promote inclusivity in the outdoors.
client: Nordica & evo
director/dop/edit: Tava Kessler
producer: Marcus Brown
gaffer/ac: Bridget Taylor
STILLS & COLOR
