What to Expect When Hiring a DP in Dallas-Fort Worth
If you’ve never hired a Director of Photography before, it’s easy to assume it’s all about showing up with a camera and pressing record. But if you’re serious about telling a story—one that actually connects with your audience—it takes more than just gear.
Whether you’re building a brand video, documenting an event, or creating content for your business, here’s what you can expect when working with a DP like me here in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
1. We Start with the Why
Before we shoot anything, I want to understand what you're trying to say and who you're trying to reach.
Is this for your website or social media?
Are we showcasing a product, a person, or a process?
What feeling do you want the audience to walk away with?
This conversation helps me figure out what matters most. My job isn’t just to make things look good—it’s to make sure your message is clear and the visuals support the story you’re trying to tell.
2. Pre-Production That Actually Saves Time
Once we’re aligned on the vision, we’ll get into the details. That might include:
Shot lists or visual references
Planning the lighting setup and camera movement
Interview prep or scripting if needed
Locking down shoot dates and logistics
Depending on the scope of the project, it could just be me, or I might bring in a small crew. Either way, I make sure everything we do is efficient and intentional. No wasted time, no overcomplicating the process.
3. Shoot Day is a Collaboration
When we’re on set, I’m not just focused on camera settings—I’m focused on people. Whether I’m working with a business owner, an artist, or a team, I try to create a comfortable environment where you feel confident and relaxed on camera.
I work with natural light when it serves the story, and I bring in gear when the situation calls for it. My goal is to capture footage that feels true to the tone we set in pre-production—whether that’s clean and polished, raw and intimate, or a mix of both.
4. What Happens After the Shoot?
If we’ve agreed that I’ll handle post-production, I’ll take care of editing, color, and delivery. If the footage is being handed off to another editor, I’ll make sure everything is labeled, organized, and export-ready so there’s no guesswork on the back end.
And if we’re creating multiple versions for different platforms—YouTube, Instagram, internal comms—we’ll plan those deliverables from the start so nothing gets missed.
5. You’re Hiring More Than a Camera Operator
There are a lot of people in DFW with cameras. What sets a good DP apart is their ability to see the big picture and still sweat the small details.
When you hire me, you’re getting someone who understands how to run a smooth production, stay on schedule, and adapt when things don’t go as planned. You’re getting someone who cares about the end result as much as you do—and who knows how to bring creative solutions when time, light, or budget are tight.
If you’re looking for a Director of Photography in Dallas-Fort Worth who brings a collaborative approach and a strong storytelling foundation, I’d love to hear more about your project. You can book a consultation here or just shoot me a message with your questions.
Let’s make something meaningful.
—
Tony Gonzales
Director of Photography
Ynot Tony Media