Forward Films

Menu
Facebook Instagram

Freelance

I make documentary media and act as a producer, consulting producer, story consultant, and cinematographer for fellow filmmakers.

I live and work in the San Francisco Bay Area and (occasionally, for the right project) will travel. If I'm not the right person for your project, I'll gladly refer you along to one of the many talented creatives in my network.

get in touch

Specialties

DOCUMENTARY CINEMATOGRAPHY

Particularly verité scenes. I own my own gear which I prefer to use. I am skilled at being a fly-on-the-wall and operating as a one-woman band (running and monitoring sound up to 4 channels) or collaborating with sound and lighting professionals.  I am a founding member of the Collective of Documentary Women Cinematographers.

producing

Everything from feature docs to single virtual or in person shoots. I particularly love helping filmmakers with research and development, proposal writing, and developing a game plan and producing strategies for their films. In about 10 hours as a consulting producer, I can help steer the ship and set up infrastructure until you or another producer can take the reins. I am a member of the Documentary Producers’ Alliance and refer to their guidelines for wages and crediting. 

soup to nuts video production

Short documentary style pieces for nonprofit and social justice organizations, and helping nonprofits to market themselves through the stories of the people whose lives are impacted by their work is a joy for me. 

Clients

Partial Client List

Reviews: Cinematography

“Jen Gilomen is a first rate DP and any documentary director's dream partner. As a director herself, she knows what you need to capture -- sometimes before you do -- and she'll do what it takes to get the shot. She was my DP for a vigorous 4-day shoot in the Grand Canyon. She filmed all the way down the canyon (often being the last to join us for breaks because she wanted to get "a quick timelapse in" or similar.) She filmed for three days at the bottom of the canyon in the freezing rain and kept up her spirits (and mine) when the power went out and we lost heat and the ability to charge our batteries. And THEN she kept filming all the way back up the canyon IN A BLIZZARD and IN THE DARK. She never lost her patience or her positive attitude and supported the crew, the cast, and me the whole way. If you get the opportunity to work with Jen, you're lucky.”
Laura Vanzee Taylor, Filmmaker
"It was such a pleasure to work with Jen for my day shoot to document a new performance work. Jen is a true professional and was a delight to work with from beginning to end. She is an excellent communicator and gave me all needed information up front regarding her rate, gear, and experience. She showed up on time, with all gear in tow, the day of the shoot and was efficient in gathering the needed materials. I didn't have to worry about overly instructing her to get x, y and z shot because she came ready to shoot the scenes based upon our previous conversations, which freed me up to focus on directing the performers in the work. The final footage turned out great; Jen captured all the needed footage and more. I can't recommend working with her enough!! Such a gem."
rYAT Yezbick, artist

producing

“Jen was instrumental in getting my film, RICOCHET, to the finish line in the homestretch of post-production. With her knowledge of the process and patient wisdom, I was able to navigate the many critical steps to getting my film ready for its premiere, just in the nick of time. She was a lifesaver and gave me the confidence not only to complete this film, but to be better prepared the next time to do this on my own."
CHIHIRO WIMBUSH, FILMMAKER
“I thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with Jen Gilomen on multiple projects. She consistently displayed a high level of professionalism, responsiveness, and creativity. There were occasions when I reached out to Jen with tight deadlines and loose objectives, and she always managed to deliver an impressive vision with great flexibility and a swift turnaround. Jen's videos have an incredible ability to foster a deep sense of connection with the subject matter. Her thoughtful approach and attention to detail allow viewers to truly engage with the content on an emotional level. Working with Jen has been an absolute pleasure, as her videos consistently evoke a profound sense of connection and resonance.”
DANIKA DELLOR, WANDA SILICON VALLEY
“I had the pleasure of working with Jen on a video recording for a virtual event. The shoot required a unique combination of technical expertise and client relationship management. Through every step of the process she was exceedingly patient and proficient. I hope to get the chance to work with Jen again soon!”
quinn Costello, Producer

Get in Touch

We’d love to hear from you

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name