All About ME
Justin May is a Los Angles based cinematographer
Born and raised in the Midwest, Justin grew up in a farming community on the outskirts of St. Louis, Missouri. Currently based in Los Angeles, his blend of experience from across many walks of life helps him to bring a unique perspective to the work he creates. He believes that every project is a chance to make an impact on someone's life. He strives to bring each audience new questions to answer or emotions to experience. Whether it is as straightforward as selling a product, or as deep as challenging a person's moral compass, Justin believes each project is a chance to help leave a mark on the world.
Having been brought up in the midwest, hard work and dedication were instilled in him at a young age. These values are something he endeavors to bring to every project. His passion for hard work and creativity led him to find a home in filmmaking, particularly the camera and grip departments. He spent over half a decade in the grip department which helped him not only to hone his skills in light shaping and rigging but also developed his talent for problem solving and communication. These skills, plus his passion for storytelling and collaboration eventually led him to return to the camera department as a cinematographer.
His journey as a DP has taken him to over 35 states around the US and several countries around the world. His work has seen him collaborate with numerous large companies such as UCLA Health, Monsanto, and Starbucks. He deeply enjoys working with brands to help craft a meaningful connection between their audience and their product within the constraints of the budget. In much the same way, Justin is most excited when he gets to work in the narrative sector. He cherishes teaming up with a director to evoke a feeling, deliver a message, or challenge an audience's moral compass. It is through these collaborations that Justin hopes to leave his mark on the industry and the world.
When he is not on set, he loves talking shop and experimenting with new camera and lens combinations. He also enjoys teaching the next generation of filmmakers and has guest lectured on cinematography at multiple universities around the country, including his alma mater Webster University and the University of California at Santa Barbara. Outside of the industry, he also relishes hosting and cooking for friends, being outdoors, watching movies, playing sand volleyball, and spending time with his wife and cat.
Proficiencies
Commercial
Narrative
Music Videos
Documentary
Values important to me
Work Ethic
Creativity
Collaboration