In January 2020 with some help from friends and crew members, we were lucky enough to raise $30,000 for a production that I was able to direct. It was a 30min pilot about inner city Chicago high schoolers who use the art of slam poetry to navigate their increasingly complicated lives. The production itself was… Read More @thecomeupchi @tres_belle7: What is a successful moment in your career so far?

My biggest concern is wondering whether or not there will be more stories about People Of Color being presented on screen by POC. As a black woman I feel that it is important for the inclusion of diversity to be well presented on and behind the camera especially in a predominantly white field.

My defining moment happened recently as I became the first person in my family with a Bachelors Degree in Film this past May. This was such a defining moment for me because for four years I was working very hard for this accomplishment. I did a lot of self-reflecting and was able to not only… Read More @thecomeupchi @tres_belle7: What’s a defining moment in your life?

I possess a genuine passion for and dedication to the detailed factors involved in bringing concepts to life through the medium of film. I’m very committed with regards to visually constructing a story and guiding actors towards reaching their full potential on-screen. My ultimate goal is to eventually become an accomplished and widely respected feature… Read More @thecomeupchi @tres_belle7: Why did you decide to get into this industry?

The best place to find me is on my instagram @Jessicatolliver_DP, and my website jessicatolliverdp.com. I am currently working on my next short film, “Wonder Child” and I am beyond excited to share it with you guys. 

I inadvertently have a collection of water bottles. I have short ones, tall ones, glass, metal, matte black, colorful, 12 oz – 77oz, you name it. I’m always on the hunt for the perfect water bottle that will make me drink water consistently. I still haven’t found it yet. 

Never underestimate the power of asking. Ask for help, ask for guidance, ask for funding, ask to be a part of something great. One thing I truly do love about the women in this industry is that we can be a very nurturing community. It was a woman who gave me my first big opportunity.… Read More @Jessicatolliver_DP: What advice do you have for other women in the industry?

I recently made one year since joining the Local 600 (International Cinematographers Guild). It has been amazing! Working as a digital camera utility on the show Batwoman has easily been the coolest job thus far! I truly can’t wait until it’s safe again to get back to work on set. 

One of my biggest concerns would be my fear of not having access to opportunities because of the way I look. I am an African American woman, and it is clear that there’s a disproportionately small number of workers in the industry that look like me, particularly in the camera department. I however am excited… Read More @Jessicatolliver_DP: What is your biggest concern with the future?