My name is Julia Pitch, and I am a Director and DP. Technically, you didn't ask, but since you're here, I want to tell you about my summer job in high school. I taught kids (18 months to 5 years old) how to swim.

If you can’t picture how waking up at 6 am to go be stuck in an over-chlorinated, freezing indoor pool with 8+ screaming babies clawing at my eyes and hanging onto my ponytail for dear life, has helped me be the filmmaker I am today, then let me explain further.

I’ve had a strong work ethic since before I could legally work. My visual sensibilities are heavily influenced by my love for storytelling through painting and art, which lead to my passion for cinematography.

At the start of 2015 I joined Refinery29, where I developed work that helped to grow the video department from 10 employees to 120. I worked in the conceptualization and execution of Brand-Win Projects, including Webby Nominations for series "Daughters of Paradise" and Sound Off."

I left Producing to explore my creative options with cinematography. For two years I operated as a One-Woman- Band, and eventually worked my way up to DPing on larger productions, including "On the Record," which premiered at Sundance 2020, and my first feature film "The Country Club." Collaborating with other Directors has helped in developing my personal style.

My experiences across all departments has allowed helped me in thinking resourcefully and be a considerate leader and team member. I'm a good listener, stick up for my crew, and take time to foster growth as well. My mom teaches children with learning differences, and education and mentorship has always been something that is important to me. This is one of the many reasons I have developed a network of collaborators that trust and stand by me.

Everything I just said I have accomplished was a bit of an obstacle course, but ultimately easier and more pleasant than being in a pool with a baby who is afraid of water. But if there was one thing to take away- know that when it comes to a sink or swim moment, I'm not letting anyone on my team drown.