Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Websites
References
Timeline
Generic

Abigail Lestrade

Baton Rouge,LA

Summary

Accomplished Director of Photography at Louisiana State University, adept in camera operation and lighting design. Excelled in visual storytelling and creative collaboration, leading teams to produce award-winning projects. Demonstrated exceptional project management and effective communication, enhancing production quality by 30%. Skilled in scriptwriting and editing, ensuring cohesive and compelling narratives.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

2nd Assistant Camera

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA
11.2022 - 11.2025
  • Operate the slate (clapperboard) at the beginning of each take and maintain accurate shot logs.
  • Assist with camera setup and teardown, including prepping lenses, filters, and accessories.
  • Manage digital media, including labeling, organizing, and safely transferring footage to the data manager or editor.
  • Keep detailed camera reports to track takes, lens changes, card usage, and technical notes.
  • Support the 1st AC with focus marks, lens swaps, and on-set adjustments as needed.
  • Clean and maintain camera equipment throughout the shoot to ensure optimal performance.
  • Coordinate with the script supervisor and sound department to sync takes and ensure proper labeling.

Director of Photography

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge
04.2025 - 05.2025
  • Work closely with the director to develop a visual style, color palette, and shot composition that aligns with the story.
  • Lead the camera and lighting departments during pre-production and on set.
  • Oversee camera placement, lens choices, shot framing, and camera movement for each scene.
  • Collaborate with the Gaffer (Chief Lighting Technician) to design and execute lighting setups that enhance mood and tone.
  • Communicate with the 1st and 2nd Assistant Camera on focus pulling, camera builds, and technical needs.
  • Make decisions about exposure, depth of field, and frame rate in coordination with the camera operator and assistant directors.
  • Collaborated with students to create compelling visual narratives for academic projects.
  • Assisted in lighting setup to enhance production quality for various video shoots.
  • Analyzing scripts to determine best angles for each scene or shot composition.
  • Assist in color grading direction during post-production (optional, based on workflow).

First Assistant Camera

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA
04.2025 - 04.2025
  • Pull and maintain critical focus during takes, especially in moving shots or shallow depth-of-field setups.
  • Build and prep the camera before each shoot day, including attaching lenses, matte boxes, follow focus, and other accessories.
  • Manage lens changes, filter swaps, and camera rig adjustments during production.
  • Maintain and organize all camera-related equipment, including batteries, media, monitors, and tools.
  • Support the DP and Camera Operator by troubleshooting technical issues and maintaining camera readiness.
  • Mark actors' positions (using tape/marks) and assist in blocking/rehearsals to ensure accurate focus.
  • Work with the 2nd AC to manage media cards, slating, and logging takes.
  • Ensure all equipment is properly stored, transported, and accounted for between locations.

Gaffer

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA
04.2025 - 04.2025
  • Collaborate with the DP to determine the lighting style and techniques for each scene based on story, location, and shot composition.
  • Design and execute lighting setups using grip and electric equipment, including lights, flags, gels, diffusers, and rigging tools.
  • Collaborated with production teams to design effective lighting setups.
  • Provided technical advice regarding use of various types of lights available on set.
  • Created custom gels, flags, nets and other items needed to modify light output when necessary.
  • Managed time efficiently while working under tight deadlines.
  • Manage all lighting gear, power distribution, and safety protocols on set.
  • Adjust lighting setups quickly and efficiently during production to maintain visual continuity and meet time constraints.
  • Conduct pre-lighting tests and support location scouts with technical insight on lighting feasibility.
  • Troubleshoot lighting issues and offer creative solutions in dynamic shooting conditions.
  • Work with other departments to ensure lighting setups support performance, camera movement, and production design.

Writer/Director

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA
03.2025 - 04.2025
  • Conceived and wrote the original screenplay, including dialogue, structure, and visual storytelling elements.
  • Revised the script through workshops, peer feedback, and pre-production planning.
  • Collaborated with department heads to align script requirements with production capabilities.Developed the creative vision and led the artistic interpretation of the script.
  • Directed rehearsals and on-set performances, guiding actors to deliver emotionally resonant and tonally consistent scenes.
  • Worked closely with the Director of Photography, Production Designer, and other key crew to shape the film’s visual and narrative style.
  • Oversaw blocking, pacing, and tone to maintain cohesion across scenes.Managed pre-production logistics including budgeting, scheduling, casting, and securing locations.
  • Hired and coordinated crew members, ensuring departments were staffed and supported.
  • Oversaw day-to-day production operations, resolving on-set issues and maintaining workflow efficiency.
  • Coordinated post-production efforts including editing, sound, and color grading.
  • Submitted the finished film to festivals, showcases, and university screenings.

Director of Photography

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA
03.2022 - 03.2022
  • Collaborated with students to create compelling visual narratives for academic projects.
  • Operated camera equipment to capture high-quality footage during university events.
  • Assisted in lighting setup to enhance production quality for various video shoots.
  • Reviewed footage for continuity and quality before final production stages.
  • Trained student volunteers on basic camera operation and filming techniques.
  • Setting up lighting rigs, adjusting light levels and choosing color gels as needed.
  • Participated in brainstorming sessions to develop creative concepts for video projects.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts - Film And Television

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA
12-2025

Skills

  • Camera operation
  • Lighting design
  • Scriptwriting
  • Project management
  • Creative collaboration
  • Visual storytelling
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Effective communication
  • Script supervision
  • Camera maintenance
  • Camera troubleshooting
  • Follow focus operation
  • Gimbal operation
  • Camera rigging
  • Color correction
  • Video storytelling
  • Editing skills
  • Video production
  • Cinematography Techniques

Affiliations

  • Engages in theatrical scene painting during free time, focusing on large-scale backdrops, textured surfaces, and scenic illusions. Enjoy experimenting with perspective, color theory, and storytelling through visual design. This creative outlet supports a deeper understanding of visual composition and enhances collaboration with production design teams.
  • Creates short animated projects in free time, exploring 2D character animation, visual storytelling, and timing. Use programs like Procreate, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Davinci Resolve to experiment with motion, expression, and design. This self-driven practice strengthens storytelling skills and supports a deeper understanding of visual rhythm and pacing.
  • Designs and builds props in free time, using materials like foam, cardboard, fabric, and found objects to create functional and visually engaging pieces. Enjoy crafting both realistic and stylized props to support storytelling in film, theater, and personal projects. This hands-on practice strengthens problem-solving, creativity, and attention to detail.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Director of Photography

Louisiana State University
04.2025 - 05.2025

First Assistant Camera

Louisiana State University
04.2025 - 04.2025

Gaffer

Louisiana State University
04.2025 - 04.2025

Writer/Director

Louisiana State University
03.2025 - 04.2025

2nd Assistant Camera

Louisiana State University
11.2022 - 11.2025

Director of Photography

Louisiana State University
03.2022 - 03.2022

Bachelor of Fine Arts - Film And Television

Louisiana State University

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