Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Timeline
Generic

Haden Gillespie

Colorado Springs,CO

Summary

Results-oriented communication professional with a strong background in digital filmmaking and content creation. Experienced in managing projects from concept to completion, collaborating with stakeholders, and utilizing video, photography, and editing to achieve communication goals.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience

Work History

Director

Carving Culture
06.2024 - 07.2024
  • Produced a 7-minute documentary film on porcelain carving in Xiamen, China, under the mentorship of UCCS Professor Jay Hubert, completing all aspects of production (filming, interviewing, editing) within a demanding two-week timeframe.
  • Successfully navigated language barriers and challenging environmental conditions to deliver a compelling narrative. Spent an entire week with only a Chinese translator to assist me filming and navigating China.
  • Film received honors in China and premiered to an audience of over 100 people, even gaining recognition in the local news.

Videographer

KRDO NewsChannel 13
06.2024 - Current
  • Captured and edited compelling video content for a fast-paced news environment, adeptly navigating challenging breaking news scenes (e.g., Las Vegas Cyber Truck Bomber, Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Disaster) requiring quick thinking and on-the-spot problem-solving.
  • Partnered closely with reporters and producers under demanding deadlines to translate stories into compelling visual narratives for broadcast, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
  • Conducted Interviews with everyone from city officials to NBA players and coaches.

Freelance Videographer

Various Clients
06.2023 - Current
  • Developed promotional video content for the City of Alamosa Tourism Department, capturing high-quality scenic B-roll footage showcasing the region's unique landscapes and attractions. Delivered compelling video assets intended for marketing use, resulting in a paid commission.
  • Produced and executed professional live stream recordings for diverse clients (political candidate, local comedian), creating engaging video content optimized for online platforms and audience reach.
  • Created a short-form promotional video for a non-profit youth skate park designed to enhance social media presence and boost community awareness.

Director

Mi Media Naranja Capstone Project
01.2024 - 05.2024
  • Directed a short film as a Senior Capstone project, taking ownership of all stages of production, from initial script development and casting calls to the final edit, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process.
  • Successfully managed a full film crew (Producer, ADs, Actors, Sound, Grips, Gaffer, ACs, DP, Camera Operator) within a demanding 12-hour shoot schedule, showcasing strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills honed in a simulated professional film set environment.
  • Effectively navigated on-set challenges and unexpected issues while adhering to the tight production timeline, ultimately delivering a high-quality short film that earned honors at the university's film festival.

DP/Editor

The Bluffs Season 10
08.2023 - 05.2024
  • Served as Director of Photography for an episode of "The Bluffs," a student-led television show produced by the UCCS Communication Department, overseeing the camera department and ensuring the director's vision was realized through effective lighting, camera angles, and composition.
  • Independently edited the entire first episode of "The Bluffs", a semester-long endeavor involving meticulous attention to detail in color grading, sound design, music integration, and visual effects (including the creation of a ghost VFX).
  • Collaborated with a full student cast and crew (including Producer, ADs, Actors, Sound, Grips, Gaffer, ACs) within a simulated professional television production environment.

Film Production Student Employee

UCCS Communications
03.2023 - 05.2024
  • Successfully executed live broadcasts of university sporting events, utilizing professional broadcast equipment including ENG cameras, fiber optic cables, and a television-grade switcher, demonstrating expertise in multi-camera production.
  • Contributed to the production of high-quality university commercials and advertisements, collaborating with external production houses and gaining experience in all aspects of production from grip work to camera operation and lighting.
  • Managed and maintained the COMM Department's film studio, including an overhead lighting grid, grip equipment (stands, dollies, jibs), set pieces, and props, while also assisting professors with instruction during video production classes.
  • Oversaw student equipment checkout, managing inventory, repairing gear, and cataloging a wide range of film equipment (lenses, audio gear, etc.), demonstrating organizational skills and a deep understanding of video production tools.
  • Part-Time

Education

Bachelor of Communications - Digital Filmmaking and Media Arts

University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
05.2024

Skills

  • Proficient in video and photo editing using Adobe tools
  • Successfully addresses diverse filmmaking challenges, leveraging problem-solving skills to consistently meet client demands
  • Versatile camera operator with expertise in DSLR, mirrorless, ENG, and cinema camera systems, specializing in both still photography and video production
  • Experienced with Fresnel, LED, and HMI lighting fixtures
  • Effective communicator with a focus on client engagement
  • Extensive leadership experience in key film production roles, including Director, Director of Photography, and Producer
  • Pre-production planning

Timeline

Director

Carving Culture
06.2024 - 07.2024

Videographer

KRDO NewsChannel 13
06.2024 - Current

Director

Mi Media Naranja Capstone Project
01.2024 - 05.2024

DP/Editor

The Bluffs Season 10
08.2023 - 05.2024

Freelance Videographer

Various Clients
06.2023 - Current

Film Production Student Employee

UCCS Communications
03.2023 - 05.2024

Bachelor of Communications - Digital Filmmaking and Media Arts

University of Colorado Colorado Springs