About Me
I never really thought I’d become a cinematographer. Honestly, I don’t think I even knew what the role was until my mid-twenties. I just knew I wanted to do something I loved for a living and hopefully make a positive impact while I was doing it.
In high school, my sister and I accidentally realized the power of filmmaking when we created an animated cartoon satirizing our school administration. It was just a fun way to air our grievances, but it caused quite a stir and resulted in some positive change. I was hooked. That led me to shooting live-action comedy sketches and music videos in college, where I became obsessed with the image-making process.
Now, as a Philly-based director of photography, I continue to gravitate toward projects with a soul, but even more so, ones with people I truly connect with. It’s so important to be on the same page as the director when it comes to vision and values. When we’re finishing each other’s sentences and sharing the same brain, I know we’re in a good spot. I also strive for that same shorthand with the crew to keep things as efficient as possible.
I’ve shot documentary features, narrative shorts, national commercials, and even a Netflix special. When I’m not on set, I’m often spending time with my fiancée, Emily, and our cat, Noodle, lifting at the gym, or hanging with friends at a concert.
Check out my work or get in touch.
e-mail: joe@joegrassofilms.com
cell: 610-217-8352
Instagram: @joegrasso.dp