MIKE DALTON
Director of Photography

“With each project, I strive to light and create a look that not only compliments the story/product/person/etc., but also uniquely enhances and pushes the visuals wherever possible”

Since my early years in high school, I have had a love for filmmaking. What began as a not-so-serious hobby with friends — trying to be the next viral youtube pranksters or sketch comedy producers — quickly turned into a more serious passion that I followed to Webster University's film school, and ultimately my career.

After a couple of years at Webster, I was offered a position with a small production company that launched my career. It was there I was hands-on in multiple departments on set —cinematography, camera operating, lighting, sound, and even, at times, directing. In addition, because of my experience and love for editing, I had the opportunity to edit some of the pieces I shot. Having the chance to explore and improve in multiple areas of filmmaking is something that I feel has had a great impact on my career. Ultimately, I knew cinematography is what I wanted to pursue, and I shifted focus to grow in that field.

Fast forward a few years, from learning as a 1st and 2nd AC, to Camera Operating, to working as 2nd unit DoP, all while shooting as many personal projects on the side as I could, I am now happily working solely as a freelance director of photography.

As a director of photography, I have shot commercials, documentaries, music videos, social media content, and short films. With each project, I strive to light and create a look that not only compliments the story/product/person/etc., but also uniquely enhances and pushes the visuals wherever possible. I would like to say my lighting style is influenced by and rooted in naturalism but is often tempted to be pushed slightly out of the ordinary. While I may not have as much of a love for physically pushing the keys as an editor anymore, I do still have a love for the craft, and knowing its process is something that I feel has greatly influenced my shooting style and approach with every project.

As a freelancer, I have had the chance to work with various production companies, and I appreciate any time I get the pleasure of working with SPOKE612. Sharing a set with the crews they bring together is so much fun, and I love how collaborative the whole process feels.

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Austin Hilgenberg, Director of Photography + Drone