Interviews for CAMH’s Gifts of Lights Program
produced with AIRFOIL Media
directed by David Kalinauskas
roles & responsibilities: manage talent, create production documents, support producer and crew, provide client support
Through intimate storytelling and evocative visuals, we emphasize Gifts of Light's role in fostering dignity and hope.
Recognizing the power of aerial perspectives in enhancing the storytelling, we proposed a well-structured budget that incorporated professional drone footage. This addition provided a broader context to the CAMH environment, visually reinforcing the sense of community and care that Gifts of Light nurtures.
Working with real people rather than professional actors required an extra level of sensitivity and care on set. Despite budget constraints typical of charitable organizations, we advocated for the inclusion of a professional hair and makeup artist. This decision proved invaluable, boosting the confidence of interviewees and helping them feel their best in front of the camera, ultimately contributing to more authentic and impactful on-screen narratives.
Our thoughtful approach throughout production created a short film that emotionally connected with the audience but also reframed the conversation around mental health care, advocating for compassion-centered practices that honor the humanity of every patient.