Hey there! Nice to virtually meet you! My name is Tessie Tokash. I’m a photographer, videographer, photo editor, video editor, 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 photo publication in Marie Claire Magazine with Naomi Yasuda (@NaomiNailsNYC) during New York Fashion Week, worked as G+E on a Coca-Cola Regal shoot, directed photography on student films, and produced countless self-tapes for Broadway performers. I also created and edited digital content for Marymount Manhattan College’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 the Tony Awards. I wore many hats, from creating and editing screen grabs to supporting photographers with lighting, logistics, and equipment, as well as managing metadata and Getty uploads. I genuinely loved every moment of it. Paramount gave me more than just experience; it gave me a creative foundation and a circle of inspiring, supportive collaborators I will always be grateful for.
I also create and edit content for Broadway’s biggest Halloween event, I Put A Spell On You! When I’m not behind the camera or in the edit bay, you can find me geeking out over anything musical theater, board games, TCGs, video games, D&D, birds, seashells, and seaglass. If you have questions about my work or want to talk shop about cameras, gear, theater, gaming, or D&D, feel free to reach out!
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy my site! :)