Hey there! Nice to virtually meet you! My name is Tessie Tokash. I’m a photographer, videographer, and all-around creative with a passion for storytelling, collaboration, and bringing bold ideas to life.
I’m originally from West Virginia, where I began studying Zoo Science at West Liberty University before following my heart into the world of video production. In 2018, I was accepted into the Disney College Program, where I worked as a lifeguard at Blizzard Beach and a sales intern at World of Disney in Disney Springs. That magical experience sparked my love for creative teamwork and leadership, and after the program ended in 2019, I moved to New York City to finish my degree at Marymount Manhattan College, majoring in Digital Media and Video Production while also serving as a student ambassador.
Throughout my time in NYC, I’ve gotten to dive into some truly incredible projects. I earned my first published photo with NaomiNailsNYC during New York Fashion Week (hello, Marie Claire!), worked as G+E on a Coca-Cola Regal shoot, directed photography on a student film, and produced countless self-tapes for Broadway performers. I also created and edited digital content for Marymount’s Open House, virtual tours, and social platforms.
During quarantine, I channeled my creativity into documenting life through the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement, while also producing and editing Take A Bow podcast for the Broadway Podcast Network (available on Spotify, Apple, iHeart, etc.).
Most recently, I spent three amazing years at Paramount, where I started as a Photo Administrator and worked my way up to Photo Editor. I had the opportunity to work on Survivor, The Equalizer, S.W.A.T., The Summit, and major events like the Upfronts and four Tony Awards. From editing screen grabs and promotional images to assisting photographers with lighting, logistics, and equipment—and managing metadata and Getty uploads—I wore many hats and loved every second of it. Paramount gave me more than just experience; it gave me a creative foundation and a circle of inspiring, supportive collaborators I’ll always be grateful for.
Outside of work, I’m a big fan of all things theater, cozy video games, D&D, collecting seashells and seaglass, and editing content for Broadway’s biggest Halloween event, I Put A Spell On You. If you have questions about my work—or want to talk shop about cameras, gear, theater, or D&D—feel free to reach out. Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy my site!