Matelli Graves
Pataskala,OH
Summary
Dynamic Art Director with over 10 years of experience, notably at Express, where I led innovative photo and video campaigns and mentored creative teams. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and skilled in visual storytelling, I excel in aligning brand strategies while fostering collaboration and delivering high-impact content that resonates with audiences.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Art Director of Video
Express
Columbus, OH
01.2022 - Current
- Partner with the Creative Director to generate innovative concepts for editorial and social video campaigns, ensuring alignment with brand strategy.
- Brainstormed with team members and special project managers to provide unique concepts and designs.
- Supervise and mentor a team of video editors, guiding creative decisions and approving all social, web, and CTV video content for quality and brand consistency.
- Directed photo shoots, managed video production crews, and oversaw post-production editing.
- Act as Director of Photography for monthly editorial productions and special projects, overseeing lighting, camera operation, and on-set visual direction.
- Reviewed and approved final designs, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines.
Freelance Art Director & Photographer
Mateli Graves
01.2012 - Current
- Bring 10+ years of freelance experience as an Art Director and Photographer, partnering with global brands such as Levi’s, Dior, Tommy Hilfiger, Hennessy, Abercrombie & Fitch, Anthropologie, ASOS, and 7 For All Mankind, to deliver high-impact creative content.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align brand vision and messaging.
- Presented design concepts to clients, articulating ideas clearly and effectively.
- Brainstormed with team members and special project managers to provide unique concepts and designs.
- Directed photo shoots, managed video production crews, and oversaw post-production editing.
Cinematographer/DP
DSW
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Collaborated with the Creative Director and VP of Creative to concept and develop video content for quarterly editorial campaigns.
- Led a team of freelance video editors, providing direction and feedback while approving social, YouTube, website, and CTV video deliverables.
- YouTube content, website video content and CTV.
- Played a key role in shaping and evolving the video department at DSW, contributing to workflow development, team structure, and creative standards.
- Captured high-quality footage for diverse projects and promotional materials.
- Operated cameras and lighting equipment during on-location shoots and studio sessions.
- Edited video content using industry-standard software to enhance final presentations.
- Managed video archives, ensuring organized access to footage and project files.
- Trained junior staff on camera techniques and best practices in cinematography.
- Coordinated with production teams to align visual elements with overall project goals.
Art Director & Photographer
Rudis
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Work closely with the Creative Director to build and scale the video department, establishing workflows, standards, and long-term production capabilities.
- Oversee the hiring of video editors, and manage the construction and setup of a new photo/video studio, including developing a comprehensive equipment list to support video production needs.tion needs.
- Manage budgets for photo and video shoots across editorial and social media content, ensuring efficient resource allocation and on-brand execution.
- Manage full-time and freelance video editors, providing creative feedback and approving final social, website, and YouTube video content.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Digital Cinematography
Fullsail
Winter Park, FL01.2018
Skills
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Concept development
- Creative strategy
- Brand alignment
- Visual storytelling
- Team collaboration
- Leadership skills
- Problem solving
- Creative direction
- Storyboard planning
- Content strategy
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication
Websites
Awards
- Best in Video Long Form, Creative Best 2021, International Black & Diversity Film Festival, 01/01/21
- Best Experimental Short, Columbus Black International Film Festival, 01/01/21
- Best Video Short Form, Columbus Black International Film Festival, 01/01/21
Personal Information
Title: Art Director / Photographer / Director of Photography
References
- James Prysock
Senior Manager, Culture and Belonging
Bath & Body Works
Email: jprysockiii@bbw.com - Nathanyal Thomas
Vice President, Account Executive
Lockton Insurance
Email: nathanyal.thomas@gmail.com
Timeline
Art Director of Video
Express
01.2022 - Current
Cinematographer/DP
DSW
01.2020 - 01.2022
Art Director & Photographer
Rudis
01.2018 - 01.2020
Freelance Art Director & Photographer
Mateli Graves
01.2012 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Digital Cinematography
Fullsail