“I like to squeeze actors for everything they are worth,” cracks BILLY VELTEN, of the aptly named director/DP Squeeze. “Get them really close to snapping, that’s where the most honest performances are.”

“I’m not telling the whole story,” assures Billy, being more candid. “I’m inspired by actors, really I’m inspired by all of the creative people I work with.” Velten goes on, “I’m a collaborator. I just like to squeeze the most out of every situation.”

Velten blends his decade plus experience in lighting and photography with an uncommon ability to identify the bare essence of an idea. “It has given me the freedom to tell the larger story,” he says “That’s deeply rewarding.”

Velten sees his diverse experiences as his greatest asset. “I dig into scripts and use that to weed out weak ideas and elevate good ones.”.

“I like having fun” continues Velten. “I love to work. I love to prep. It’s a continuing process of discovery. I thrive on it.”

Velten sums up his approach to success, “Uncovering the essential truths in a board sets the stage for really productive collaboration with the agency creative team. That’s the biggest priority for me. If I can accomplish that from the start, I’m going to make an effective film.”