Josh’s passion for film began in high school when he signed up for the television production course, and eventually led him to attend Full Sail University. After graduating with his degree in film production in 2006, he quickly found work on set as a boom op, camera assistant, and later as director of photography on a number of short films, commercials, and documentary projects. Along with a partner, Josh ran a small production company that brought student filmmakers onto each project, giving them the chance to gain experience on set. His goal for the DFVP program is to ensure that each student gains the knowledge they need to begin a successful career in the industry, no matter what path they choose to take.
Austin Boggs discovered his passion for film and video production at a young age, immersing himself in television production classes throughout middle and high school. He honed his skills by recruiting friends and family for his amateur productions and pursued his dream further at the University of Central Florida, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Film Production in 2011. After college, Austin worked on various feature-length films, including serving as an editor for The Happiest Place on Earth, earning a Maverick Movie Award nomination for Best Feature Editing. Transitioning into the digital space, Austin shot and edited content at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other iconic Orlando venues for the popular travel blog Undercover Tourist. For the past five years, Austin has shared his expertise as a high school Digital Video Technology teacher. Today, he brings his wealth of experience and passion for storytelling to the F.I.R.S.T. Institute.
Michael is an award winning director, producer and editor from Wasilla, Alaska. He's come to F.I.R.S.T. excited to share his passion for film, which has led him to find success creating three feature length films, a dozen short films and countless commercials and various forms of media. Michael's films have traveled the world In countless film festivals, acquired for distribution and available to the public for viewing in various streaming outlets. In-between developing his films, he's also a freelance editor and acting instructor.
"My greatest passion is to bring stories to life that hold a strong message and leave an impact on the audience"
Eric discovered the joy of being behind the camera when he was nearing graduation and started fooling around with a DSLR to shoot headshots for his fellow actor friends. He began exploring the potential of cinema as an art form by making everything from narrative shorts to artist moving image works, from music videos to Youtube videos. Those creative excursions resulted in Eric’s work screening internationally at festivals such as Alchemy Film and Moving Image Festival, Istanbul International Experimental Film Festival, and the Florida Film Festival. His work has also been written about in publications such as L’Emergere Del Possible and MUBI’s Notebook. He graduated with an MFA from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design to start his career as an educator. Eric feels privileged to join the F.I.R.S.T. community and to support such passionate students.
Domonic Crane discovered his passion for video production in high school when he took a TV production class. Captivated by the art of storytelling, he recognized the unique power of video to convey emotion and complex ideas. Domonic expanded his expertise at Valencia College, where he connected with like-minded creatives and landed his first professional role as a videographer. He produced promotional content for well-known restaurant franchises in Orlando, including Don Julio, Rock n' Brews, and The Porch. Later, Domonic gained experience as a video producer for a PR agency, crafting engaging stories for industries ranging from tech startups to biotechnology firms. His work for these companies included segments aired on Bloomberg TV. Reflecting on his career, Domonic says, “Video editing is about problem-solving and maximizing potential—I’ve learned more telling stories this way than in any classroom.” Today, Domonic thrives in an industry where his passion meets purpose.
Based in Central Florida, Jason has been an event photographer and videographer for over 10 years specializing in portraiture and documentary style films and promotional pieces. With a passion for film and motion pictures, Jason attended F.I.R.S.T. Institute Film School to learn storytelling and cinematography. In May 2021, he graduated valedictorian from the film production program. He currently shoots projects ranging from short films, commercials and documentaries.
His work covers a range of styles and genres from inspirational lifestyle pieces to compelling moody and suspenseful scenes. Jason is committed to creating and producing films and content of all genres that impact and inspire others.
Noah Seta’s filmmaking journey began in Canada, before his family moved to Florida, where his passion for visual storytelling took shape. Starting with stop-motion animation in high school, Noah honed his craft and pursued digital video production in college. While working as a media assistant at a large church, a chance opportunity led him to launch a media program at a private school. Initially hesitant, Noah soon discovered that teaching and mentoring young creators offered greater rewards than working on his own productions. He later attended UCF to study film and education, further developing his skills by producing, directing, and editing short films, promotional content, and conference videos. His career took him to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he built another successful media program and introduced live sports broadcasting. Now back in Florida, Noah brings his passion and expertise to F.I.R.S.T. Institute, inspiring the next generation of creators while pursuing his dream of writing and producing feature-length films.
Jocelyn Waite, a fresh addition to the Orlando media scene, brings expertise, creativity, and a passion for storytelling. With a bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Central Washington University and three years of experience as a digital media specialist for a private school in Seattle, she has honed her ability to create impactful, community-focused content. During her tenure, Jocelyn spearheaded a three-part video series for the UCDS Fund, a campaign that raised over $400,000 with 100% parent and guardian participation. To celebrate this achievement, she produced a heartfelt thank you video that resonated with the community, shared widely on social media. Jocelyn is also an accomplished screenwriter, with her script “November 1st” earning finalist status at the 2020 New York International Screenplay Awards. Now part of the F.I.R.S.T. Institute community, Jocelyn is eager to share her knowledge and collaborate with fellow creatives to inspire the next generation of filmmakers.
After graduating from the University of Central Florida in 1994 with a Bachelors in Technical Theater and Design, Michael “Spoon” Wotherspoon received his first internship at Nickelodeon Studios. After showing is outstanding skills and talents in the art department, he was hired on, for the art department for the following shows, Legends of the Hidden Temple, Guts, and Allegra’s Window.
He is currently enrolled back at UCF to receive his Masters and then PhD. In the Summer of 2015, he was hired by the Orlando Magic in a new role as a Head R.E.F. This opportunity offers new challenges in the area of the fan experience and sports hospitality. Most recently, he was brought on-board as a part of the faculty for FIRST Institute. He is truly excited to be in this new path in life!
Allison Stewart's passion for video production ignited in high school when she joined a Television Production program in South Florida. Captivated by the creative process, she specialized in editing and motion graphic design, contributing to impactful projects like documentaries, short films, and commercial shoots. Committed to amplifying underrepresented stories, Allison crafted narratives that spotlighted individuals and organizations often overlooked by mainstream media. A standout achievement was her documentary on a neurodivergent theater company, celebrating their inspiring performances. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and Critical Media Studies, she joined Disney Experiences, creating engaging video and motion graphic content for cast member training worldwide. Today, she continues to broaden her creative expertise, offering freelance video production services to individuals and small businesses in Orlando. Driven by her enthusiasm for post-production, Allison is dedicated to pushing creative boundaries and delivering work that leaves a lasting impression.
Juan Pantoja, a creative visionary from Bayamón, Puerto Rico, began his artistic journey as a dancer and theater performer, captivating audiences in live events and productions. Initially pursuing Biology, Juan discovered his passion for the arts and shifted to Theater Education at the University of Puerto Rico. There, he honed skills in costume design, stagecraft, directing, and prop-making, igniting his interest in makeup and special effects. This led him to earn a professional certification in 2003 from the renowned Joe Blasco Makeup Center East, marking the start of an impressive career across TV, film, and theater. Over the years, Juan has taught stage makeup, worked as a beauty artist for MAC Cosmetics, and developed a drama program at Montessori School of East Orlando. Additionally, he has made his mark in filmmaking with works like Scream Test (2020) and Lost Island (2024), showcasing his dedication to storytelling and creative excellence.
Jonathan Dietrich’s love for storytelling started young, inspired by his favorite movies. His passion was solidified when he wore out a VHS copy of Star Wars, a treasured gift from his parents. This fascination drove Jonathan to pursue a degree in Cinema and Television Production at California State University Northridge, where he learned to craft his vision as a director. After graduation, Jonathan’s career began with an internship at the Los Angeles Dodgers, launching a decade-long tenure with the team. Starting as a grip, he worked his way to producer/director, overseeing live game-day productions and post-event coverage. His expertise extended beyond baseball, directing for the Orlando Magic, Lakers, Clippers, Kings hockey, concerts, and corporate events. With over 20 years of live production experience, Jonathan is a California native who has mastered capturing unforgettable moments on screen, blending passion and skill into his extraordinary storytelling career.
