KOPĀ SAULGRIEŽOS (Together at Summer Solstice) - Short Film Project for AL59KD Latvian Australian Film Festival (2023)
Directed by Evelina Nestecka
Role: Director, Writer, Pre/Post Production
A documentary style film exploring the concept of togetherness through Latvian traditions, especially taking a look at 'Jāņi', the Latvian summer solstice. The film uses gathered home videos from multiple archives of 1970, 2002, 2009, 2013, 2023. This technique illustrates the connection of our community during this time of year, bringing together all Latvians of any age, place of residence or even decade. The Jāņi spirit welcomes anyone to join, as it has always been about the timeless unity of our community. This film shows that the traditions we take part in during Jāņi, are a reflection of strengthening connection between each other, our ancestors, nature around us, the Gods and with ourselves.
FACADE - Short Film Project for Indie Shorts Awards Cannes Submission (2021)
Director: Jack Briden
Role: Crew/ Runner
This is my first film project outside of university, where I worked as runner on set. The project took three days to complete. I assisted the director with story telling, arranging the set design, production management, lighting and sound, as well as helped out around set with other small tasks including make-up and costume design assist.
2DEGREES NETWORK - Commercial Advertising 2024
Industry: Telco / Mobile
Creative: 2Degrees Network Blind Test
Role: DOP Assistant/ Runner
I worked as a DOP Assistant and Runner on the 2024 commercial campaign for 2degrees, supporting both the camera and production teams during a remote outdoor shoot centred around the “Blind Test” concept. Filming took place around a lakeside surrounded by sand dunes, which created a range of environmental challenges. Working close to water required careful handling and protection of camera equipment, while the soft sand made transporting gear physically demanding. High heat and strong sun added further pressure to maintain pace across the day. The role required adaptability, clear communication, and close coordination with the camera department to keep production moving efficiently.
Shortland Street - New Zealand Soap Opera TV Drama Series
Role: DOP Assistant/ Runner
I worked as a DOP Assistant and Runner on Shortland Street, supporting the camera and production teams across several days of external filming. Brought in as an extra set of hands, I assisted the DOP and camera department during outdoor scenes shot in wet weather conditions. Working through rain required careful handling and protection of camera equipment, quick setup adjustments, and efficient coordination between departments to maintain continuity and schedule. My responsibilities included general runner tasks, assisting with gear movement, supporting camera setups, and ensuring the crew had what they needed on set.
CHAMPION - A Short Film Project for SCREEN 300 Documentary Class (2021)
A mock-umentary inspired short, that tells the story of the best beer pong player in Auckland, or so he says.
Directed by: Tayne Turner
Sound Design: Evelina Nestecka
DOP: Johnny Yi
Edited by: Evelina Nestecka
SAUSAGE 4 GOD (FINALIST) - 48HOURS Film Competition Submission (2022)
Role: Crew/Extra
'Sausage 4 God' is a short film made specifically for the 48h Film Festival that happens annually in New Zealand. Each crew that competes, only has 48h to brainstorm, concept write and execute the entire film ready for submission, while having to fit into a number or requirements presented at the beginning of the 48 hours.
more info about the 2022 competition:
https://www.48hours.co.nz/news/genre-and-elements-reveal/
Out of 555 submissions this year, 'Sausage 4 God' was selected as one of the finalists for 2022 competition.
