How we work
Graydon Films is intentionally lean. Most projects are directed and shot by Sam Graydon, with a small crew brought in only when it actually adds value. There are no large teams, no layers of handoffs, and no clients pushed to the sidelines while a production runs around them.
This approach keeps things fast, flexible, and collaborative. Decisions happen in real time. Clients stay closely involved. Shoots feel more like working sessions than traditional “production days,” which helps keep the energy focused and the message sharp.
Working this way also keeps costs under control without sacrificing quality. Instead of paying for scale you don’t need, you’re investing directly in the person shaping the story, framing the shots, and guiding the narrative from start to finish.
Sam Graydon, Founder
Sam Graydon spent over a decade working as a Director of Photography on commercial sets, after starting in the indie film world as a writer and director. That experience made the inefficiencies of traditional production models hard to ignore: large crews, slow decision-making, and high costs that didn’t always translate into better outcomes.
Graydon Films was built as a response to that reality. By combining the roles of director and cinematographer, Sam created a lean, collaborative way of working that keeps projects moving quickly and clients closely involved. The result is a more efficient, cost-effective process that produces clear, intentional video without unnecessary overhead.
“Sam Graydon is a meticulous storyteller with a keen eye for the natural world. He uses available resources to find the best way to authentically and artfully represent your story on screen.”
Ben Dobyns - Executive Producer
“Beyond my attraction to Sam’s impressive body of work, consistent professionalism, and artistic prowess, he’s just an all-around great persona to have on projects.”
Stefan Hajek - Producer
“Sam has been a close collaborator on my most artistically and commercially successful projects. He is a gifted storyteller who I can count on to ensure nothing slips between the cracks, all the gaps are filled, and other fissure-based metaphors. In short, I have never been disappointed when placing absolute trust in the quality of his work, and he is a steadfast and professional presence in any creative team.”
Gabriel Gonda - Director
“I have been fortunate enough to work with Sam on several projects. He is an amazing collaborator bringing an energy of calm focus even to spaces swirling with high stakes stress. His artistic standards are high and his work is absolutely beautiful. Hire him.”
Samara Lerman - Producer/Actress
