Justin Abbate


Justin is a Camera Operator and Director of Photography with over 15 years of experience crafting visual stories across film, television, commercial work, and live productions. Known for his calm presence and collaborative spirit, he brings both creative intuition and technical mastery to every set, allowing stories to unfold naturally while maintaining a strong visual point of view.

With a foundation rooted in documentary storytelling, Justin excels at capturing authentic moments and shaping them into compelling cinematic narratives. His work reflects a deep understanding of shot composition, lighting, and movement, paired with a thoughtful sensitivity to tone, pacing, and emotion. Whether working in studio environments or dynamic field productions, he approaches each project with intention, adaptability, and respect for the story being told.

Justin is highly collaborative, working closely with directors, producers, and creative teams to translate vision into cohesive, high-impact visuals. He is also a trusted leader on set, known for mentoring crews, building strong teams, and fostering an environment of focus, clarity, and mutual respect. Comfortable in fast-paced and high-pressure situations, he solves problems in real time without compromising quality or creative integrity.

His work balances precision with artistry, always prioritizing story, human connection, and visual excellence.

Core Skills

Justin brings a broad and adaptable skill set to every production, including expert camera operation across DSLR, cinema, and broadcast systems. He is proficient with Arri Alexa, Sony, Canon, and RED cameras, and experienced in both studio and field production environments. His strengths include shot composition and framing, lighting and audio coordination, and live broadcasting and streaming.

He is highly skilled in a wide range of camera movement techniques, including crane, dolly, gimbal, and handheld operation, allowing him to fluidly adapt to the needs of each story. Strong mentorship and team-building skills are central to his leadership approach, ensuring smooth collaboration across departments and productions.

Certifications

OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Safety Certification

ICG Local 600 Camera Operator