MZed is more than an educational resource - we're also a community of thousands of filmmakers from around the globe, connected through our shared love of filmmaking and learning.
Let's learn about each other, who we are, our passions and philosophies, where our creative drives come from. We want to share your story! Please get in touch if you're an MZed Pro member and would like to be featured on our blog and social media channels.
This week's feature is Thomas J. Cooksey, a fimmaker based in New York City.
Introduce yourself - who are you, where are you located, and what kind of creative work do you do?
My name is Thomas J. Cooksey and I am a Director, Cinematographer, and Editor. I was born and raised in New York City and earned a B.A. in Media Production from The State University at Buffalo. I later learned how to produce Film from watching Youtube videos.
Since then, I have worked on numerous large budget as well as low budget video productions and have honed my skills as a director, cinematographer, and editor. I act in some of my productions but do not consider myself an actor.
Whether it be a 30-second spot for social media, a 30-minute spot for television or a 1-hour long feature for the theater, a love for storytelling is always at the core of my work. I currently teach film, editing, and audio/music production to teens and young adults for The City of New York.
What do you love best about your type of work?
I love the process. I love being able to create something magical from just an idea. I started just shooting videos but later on, I wanted to tell stories and I do just that and love it.
Tell us about a project you're especially proud of.
My first feature film Swipe is my pride and joy. Swipe was selected into a couple of film festivals in 2017 and I love it because it was my film school.
How do you like to learn - to improve your craft and grow your passion for your work?
I enjoy reading books on directing, I enjoy watching great teachers on Youtube and MZed!, and I just enjoy picking up equipment and figuring it out myself.
What are your future goals for your creative work?
I would love to eventually take the Tyler Perry route and open up a studio to house my production company and help other filmmakers out.
What are the challenges - or misconceptions - about the type of creative work you do?
The budget is usually my only restriction. But I am sure this is everyone's challenge, but that is my only one.
What do you like about being an MZed Pro?
I love the classes. They are well put together and I enjoy the affordability of such great classes.
Connect with Thomas J. Cooksey
reeldealdigital.com | instagram.com/reeldealdgtl | facebook.com/reeldealdgtl | youtube.com/reeldealdigital | patreon.com/reeldealdgtl
