Below is a sample of my past work across film, photography, and theatre, from independent short films and viral videos to portraits and event photos to performing in stage productions, I’ve enjoyed storytelling across a wide swath of media formats. As both a creator and collaborator, I bring a combo of technical expertise and creative vision to every project I’m working on, whether working solo on a video for social media or as part of a larger production team developing a project for traditional audiences.
Filmmaking
Film & Video Production Collaborations
The following are some of my favorite projects on which I acted as Creative Producer, Production Manager, Assistant Director, Production Coordinator, or some combination of these… like many filmmakers, I often wear many hats (sometimes more than one at a time)!
Content Warning: Adult language, brief nudity, & at times, general bad taste.
Personal Projects
Below are a couple of no-budget shorts I made in collaboration with family members just for the pure love of creating something… and I want to share them with you, so here you go! Hope you enjoy!
Short Film – “Some Sh*t”
A zero-budget mockumentary shot during the 2020 COVID shutdown using an old Canon 7D and basic LED lights. I wrote, directed, ran the camera, lit the shots, acted in a lead role, and did all of the post-production work myself. Despite its limitations, this microfilm garnered multiple festival accolades:
- Official Selection, New York Flash Film Festival
- Best Mockumentary Microfilm, Austin Comedy Film Festival
- Outstanding Achievement Award, Berlin Flash Film Festival
- Semifinalist, Sunday Shorts Film Festival
Content Warning: Adult language & simulated use of a firearm.
Short Film – “The Elf on the Shelf”
A zero-budget family Christmas collaboration shot in a run-and-gun style using a Canon R5 and 360 cam. Created with my brother Andy Holton (co-writer & co-director and editor). This one stars our father Walter Holton and niece Maizie Stewart. Not your typical Christmas story!
Content Warning: May spoil beloved beliefs for children.
For complete filmography and additional credits, please visit my IMDB!
Photography
Creative Portraits, Headshots, Personal Branding, & Event Photos
I work as a freelance photographer, specializing in “people-centric photography”, including creative & family portraits, headshots & personal branding, & special events such as theatre productions, weddings, & cultural gatherings. I also do commercial photography & fashion work!
Book me for your next photoshoot!
If you would like to explore my portfolio & learn more, please visit Dave Holton Photography or reach out via daveholtonphotography.com/contact. I’m currently based in eastern North Carolina, but I love to travel & would be happy to go just about anywhere for the opportunity to work with you!
For info & portfolio, please visit Dave Holton Photography!
Performance (Live Theatre)
Outdoor Drama -“The Lost Colony” 84th Season
I was ecstatic to be called upon as both actor & technician in the 84th season of THE LOST COLONY Outdoor Drama, the same sandy stage that Andy Griffith once roamed in his early years. Not only did I play the speaking role of Captain Arthur Barlowe night after night in the opening scene (pictured above), but I also worked behind the scenes as an Assistant Technical Director building sets & lighting towers. April & May were a whirlwind of preparation & rehearsal, & we successfully opened the show on May 28th, 2021. The season ran 6 nights a week through August: 74 shows total at historic Waterside Theatre, Roanoke Island!
Stageplay – Theatre of Dare’s “The Mousetrap”
I was honored to play the pivotal lead role of Detective Sergeant Trotter (originally played by Richard Attenborough!) in Theatre of Dare’s rendition of “The Mousetrap,” the longest-running play in the world. The show was sold out all six nights and was a blast from the first rehearsal to the final curtain.
For more, check out this article!
Let’s Create Together!
Contact me if you would like to discuss collaborating on a project. As a creator with both technical and creative expertise, I bring comprehensive production knowledge to every project. Whether you need a writer, director, producer, or creative collaborator, I can help bring your vision to life at any stage of development.
