Meet Chris Hall of Penumbra Pictures in West LA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Hall.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started in the traditional film and television world and then transitioned over to digital around ten years ago. Over the course of my 20 years in the business, I’ve had a chance to work with some amazing creatives, some incredibly smart technicians, and a number of path-blazing businesspeople.

With a degree in theater and a few years spent working for a top Hollywood director focusing on developing stories and projects for the major studios, I think I have an instinct to put storytelling first. But I also have a deep love of the art of photography and love trying to make images that really stand out and grab you visually. Nowadays, I am busy producing video content for businesses and individuals with an eye to stand out on social media, turn viewers into customers, and actually use the story of your brand to grow your business.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Not many roads through this business run in a straight line and mine hasn’t been any different. I did start out even as a kid thinking that I wanted to be a director, to tell stories, and to use those stories to reveal truth. Since those early days, I’ve become more focused on business and how companies can use their story in a way that is authentic, compelling, and aspirational. I find that the bumps in the road are the things that make life interesting and when I see one coming up, I like to speed up and lean into it. And if the bumps have taught me anything it is to appreciate the moments of success and be grateful for the little things. Life moves pretty fast. You don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Penumbra Pictures – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My company is in the business of producing video and photography for business people and brands who want to stand out on social media. I’ve created dozens of videos that have received over a million views and I’ve developed programming for major networks and studios, so I know how to focus on and develop a concept and tone that can make your company speak to the social media generation. I think one thing that really makes our company stand out is that we have experience working for huge brands like AT&T, Amazon, and Facebook, as well as individuals and creatives like architects and musicians who need fresh content to promote their work.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
The future of the media world is in a moment of flux and change that is unlike any other in the last hundred years. Studios and networks are trying to find ways to reach an audience that is quickly steering towards more time on their phones and less time watching television. And the marketing/advertising community is trying to stay nimble and be among the first to make the switch into this new set of rules. I am eager to keep on the cutting edge of this transition and be among the companies with the professional experience of traditional production but with the modern tone of social media content.

Pricing:

• Individual Business Portrait Session – $300

Contact Info:

• Website: www.penumbra-pictures.com
• Email: penumbra@gmail.com
• Instagram: @penumbrapics

Image Credit:
All images by Christopher J Hall

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