Mindy Cook is a white woman with brown hair holding a cinema camera on her shoulder.

I am a DP who partners with directors and creative directors to bring documentaries and doc-style branded content to life through thoughtful, cinematic work.

A life-long lover of stories in all forms, I fell hard for real-people storytelling during a 10-year tenure working in non-profit communication. The opportunities for new ways of seeing, human connection, and deep emotion get me every time.

Since going independent in 2019, I’ve worked my way up through camera department and studied the art of vérité cinematography so I can help directors translate their story concepts into elevated imagery while allowing non-actors to feel at ease.

Here’s how I work:

  1. Curiosity - Let’s talk about you, your vision, and the audience! By leading with curiosity and listening to understand, I work to build a relationship where I know what you need in each frame.

  2. Planning - What do we need to make this a win for everyone involved? Whether it’s a nimble team and minimal footprint, or a full crew with trucks, making a solid plan for production ensures we can bring your vision to life on time, on budget, and have fun doing it.

  3. Production - On the day, I’m still listening—listening for story while rolling, and for any changes needed on the fly. I’m flexible, friendly, and a partner you can rely on for definitive composition, lighting, and camera choices. I work with an underlying hustle, driven to leverage our creative constraints and deliver beautiful images that draw your audience into the moment.

I’ve filmed in the mountains of Rwanda, industrial towns in China, homes of both celebrities and everyday folks, and, yes, the honky-tonks of Nashville. When I’m not working, you can find me hiking with my dog, reading in my hammock, improving my horsemanship, or exploring the local food scene with friends.