HEY! I’M DEREK JOHNSON
Biography
I am a film producer, director, cinematographer, and sometimes writer.
I have a lifelong addiction to cameras, stories, and pizza. I am also known to go to unbelievable lengths to find a great cup of coffee.
I am known for creating powerful interviews that go really, really deep into storytelling and creative excellence in my cinematography. I am the founder of Kaifilms a boutique film production company.
My first achievement in film production was documenting 9/11 in NYC, which lead to 10 feature and 4 Emmy credits. Currently, I have several films in production and an episodic true crime docuseries.
Cinematography
I absolutely love every moment I have operating a camera and capturing scenes through a lens. I have spent over 20 years capturing images for film and television production. On my off days, you will find me reviewing the camera and lighting technology of Rodger Deakins and David Mullen. In cinematography, I broke ground shooting a lot of documentaries, however, my headlights are pointing towards scripted film and television production.
Film Director
Knowing the “heart of man” is one aspect that drives my intention as a director and filmmaker. I first heard this concept from one of my mentors Werner Herzog. In my process, I've learned to look through a person’s eyes, into their heart, and find the deepest meaning to their story. And Just like Werner, I do not want to be a man who lives without dreams. I always find a way to tell a great story.
Interviews
One of my personal favorite things about filmmaking is interviewing people on camera. Contact me to help you direct or produce your interviews for documentary or business storytelling.