“If you want to make adventure cinema, you have to love the world and nature. The world is a messy place, and you’re in the center of it, trying to find this beautiful setting. Focus, practice, learn from others, and embrace the less fun parts of the job to find your vision.
Joshua Gitersonke never backed down from a challenge.
His extensive cinematography skills, combined with relentless drive, highlight his dedication to his craft. And it clearly paid off.
Since graduating with a degree in film in 2007, Joshua has built a remarkable career in the film industry.
As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Los Angeles Film School and our 5th annual Spotlight Awards, we honor Joshua’s exceptional talent, unwavering determination and brilliant achievements, including 11 Emmy nominations and a win for technical direction , exceptional camera work and video control.
Where did Joshua’s journey begin?
Joshua’s path to success began in a small town in Michigan, where he lived with his grandmother.
His creative spark was ignited early when his grandmother gave him a pencil and a book of life drawings. From then on, he became passionate about art, immersing himself in drawing, painting and sculpture.
As a child, Joshua dreamed of becoming an animator, but his passion turned to directing live-action films when he realized how much fun it was to work with real people and capture real moments, and discovered a lot about his profession. “If you draw enough objects, you have to choose a frame that you draw. So you’ve already chosen your frame and style from the start,” he said.
Joshua moved around a lot with his mother, who often had to move because of her job. And eventually, they ended up in Los Angeles during his high school years.
It was there that he continued to explore art, even working as a glass artist creating sculptures.
In fact, his love of art and mix of experiences led him to film school, paving the way for his successful career in film.
GenMovi Connection
In his early 20s, Joshua and a friend began shooting small commercials for local restaurants and businesses. And with zero budget and a simple Canon Rebel S camera meant for taking photos, they made it work.
For six months they struggled with this one camera, but they knew they needed more knowledge and better equipment. That’s when they discovered the LA Film School and decided to enroll there.
At the LA Film School, Joshua thrived.
He shot as many projects as possible and helped each one gain experience with the equipment and understand the process of making a film. “Los Angeles film school was eye-opening” Joshua remembers. “I was working with other students who were as excited as I was about working on film projects. It was a lot of fun.
Graduating in 2007, just after the writers’ strike, Joshua found work on reality shows, one of the few genres still filming.
He called and eventually got a job at The incredible racea show he had always watched with his mother. Starting out as a camera operator, he has now directed 20 seasons and reached the position of director of photography.
Joshua’s career also includes work on The late show with James Corden and National Geographic Race to the center of the Earth.
His journey from small town Michigan to the heights of the film industry is a testament to his hard work, passion and true talent.
Joshua’s advice for budding creatives
“Keep moving forward. Keep your eye on your goal and you will get somewhere.
“Have a plan for whatever may happen. Always think ahead and be in the right place.
“Pay attention to your surroundings and the people you work with. Trust your instincts.
Welcoming Joshua to Spotlight Academy
Get ready for the 5th edition of the Spotlight Awards, which will take place from September 9 to 12!
This event celebrates the talent, innovation and remarkable achievements of our LA Film School graduates. We are excited to announce that Joshua will be inducted into the Spotlight Academy as part of the Class of 2024.
Keep an eye out for updates on all the exciting Spotlight events, including expert panels, virtual demos, interactive experiences and much more. You can also join the celebration on social media using the hashtag #LAFSSpotlight. We look forward to celebrating with you and our new inductee!