Consulting
Documentary and TV
​
Weak planning is the most expensive line item in any documentary budget — and a story that doesn’t connect with its audience is the most expensive mistake of all. After 30 years producing and directing nonfiction films across genres and continents, I offer filmmakers and production companies the strategic and creative guidance that determines whether a project succeeds — from the first story conversation to the final cut and beyond.
Documentary Development & Strategy
From concept to pitch to production plan. I work with emerging and established filmmakers to develop compelling documentary projects — sharpening the story, defining the audience, and building a realistic path to completion and distribution. Most documentaries are won or lost at this stage, long before a camera is switched on.
​
Production & Post-Production Support
Weak planning is the single biggest cost driver on documentary shoots. I help filmmakers build tight budgets, efficient shooting plans, and clear lines of accountability — particularly on smaller productions where an overseeing producer is often missing. In post-production, I provide rough-cut reviews and post-production management to keep projects on track and on budget.
​
Research & Story Development
Strong documentaries are built on deep research. I support story development from the ground up — identifying the narrative spine, finding the right subjects and voices, and ensuring the story has the social and cultural resonance to reach beyond a niche audience. Through Archipelago Productions, I can also provide full research production services, including pick-up shots, B-roll, and selected interview production.
​
European Co-Production & Broadcaster Access
Established relationships with ZDF, ARTE, and Deutsche Welle open doors that are genuinely difficult to access without an insider. I help American producers navigate European funding structures, co-production agreements, and broadcaster expectations — turning what looks like an impenetrable system into a realistic path to international financing and distribution.
​
US Field Production for European Filmmakers
European documentary filmmakers and production companies can draw on decades of US field production experience — from small independent documentaries to broadcast news and live production. I bring excellent crew connections, deep knowledge of US production logistics, location negotiation, film permit management, and US production insurance. Whether you need a full field producer or targeted production support, I ensure efficient and smooth operations on American soil. Through my production company Archipelago Productions I can also offer full production service, including for pick-up shots, B-Roll or selected interview production.
​​I work with a small number of clients at any given time. Engagements are available on a project basis, day rate, or retainer. Remote consultations available worldwide. Available for in-person work in the New York metropolitan area and on location internationally.
Nonprofits
​
Nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations carry some of the most important stories in the world. The challenge is rarely the story itself — it’s the distance between a mission that genuinely matters and the audiences, donors, and partners who need to hear it.
After decades producing nonfiction films and working with purpose-driven organizations — ranging from international networks like the Resilient Cities Network to regional and local nonprofits like Sound Justice Initiative Inc. — making a mission visible and a story memorable is what I do. The result is content that leaves audiences moved, engaged, and ready to act on what they believe.
​
Story Development & Narrative Shaping
I work with nonprofit communications and leadership teams to identify the stories within their work that have the greatest potential to move audiences. This means finding the right protagonists, shaping a clear narrative arc, and ensuring the organization’s mission is felt rather than simply stated. A well-told story is the most powerful advocacy tool an organization can produce.
​
Video Content Strategy
Effective nonprofit video communication requires a strategy that balances immediate campaign needs with long-term brand and mission building. I advise organizations on what content to create, in what format, at what length, and for which audience — ensuring every production decision serves a clear purpose rather than simply filling a content calendar.
​
Production Oversight & Quality Advisory
When budget constraints lead organizations to produce content internally or with limited resources, the result is often content that undermines the brand rather than building it. I provide production oversight and quality advisory to ensure that even modestly budgeted productions meet a standard that reflects the seriousness of the organization’s work. Through Archipelago Productions, full production support is also available when projects require it.