Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/118258
Photo by Laura Houlihan work With Me Amy Johnson Creatively capturing the big day If the thought of wedding videos brings images of shaky, homemade camcorder footage to mind, you haven't seen anything like the cleverly crafted movies being cranked out by cinematographers like Amy Johnson, owner of One Fine Day Productions. A producer whose film-making prowess has even earned her a Midwest Emmy award, Johnson has a knack for turning special-occasion videos into something that feels more on par with a major motion picture. "We try to tell the true story of the day," Johnson explains. "We find it in the little moments and the big moments, so when people look back at the films, they say, 'Yes, this is us.'" A newlywed herself, Johnson knows the importance of documenting those sentimental details—from the tears in a mother's eyes to the bridesmaids' chit-chat as they help slip the bride into her gown. Using her team and multiple cameras, she condenses those memorable tidbits into a comprehensive mini-movie. While Johnson says each project can be daunting, it's an adventure full of rewards. Johnson's Emmy-Winning Moment Over the last decade, Johnson Last year, Johnson won a has become a key player in the loMidwest Emmy award for her cal luxury-wedding scene, even short documentary of life around establishing the annual Bridal Camp Randall on game day called Show at Overture Center for "The Wisconsin Football Experience." Johnson hurried to the stage and gave the Arts—all while watching her cinematography business one of the night's shortest speeches. become one of the most suc"Coming back [to my seat], I was shaking, thinking, 'This is so cessful in the state. exciting!'" Each year brings a packed wedding-season schedule, the result of a trend toward professional cinematography. Meanwhile, the commercial side of her business, Captivate Digital Cinema, is working on producing commercials for the Milwaukee Brewers. The company even creates videos for organizations and individuals in need. Yet, no matter whose life she's following through her lens, Johnson admits she can become emotionally attached to the stories she's telling. It's a trait that helps her focus on truly capturing the big picture of each occasion—one smoothly shot frame at a time. "It's your art, so you take pride in it," she says. –Cathy Martin April 2013 bravamagazine.com 33