Testimonials

What people are saying.

“I learned everything I know about Directing from Jay Black. Not only did he teach me the
foundations of filmmaking – how to direct actors, the revelatory power of the camera, and the
significance of building a believable on-screen reality – he taught me something even more
important: attention-to-detail. There’s no way I would have directed three feature films if I had
not been mentored by Jay. His constant encouragement and impassioned wisdom empowered
me to strategically pursue my dreams. Anyone who has the opportunity to learn from Jay is
truly blessed.”

-Josh Overbay, Assistant Professor, Western Carolina University, David Orr Belcher College of
Fine and Performing Arts–
“Jay Black is experienced, skilled and friendly—both as a teacher and a filmmaker. He is as
knowledgeable as he is passionate about filmmaking. I’ve had the privilege of observing and
benefiting from his teaching methods in the classroom, as well as from his professional
approach in the field, making films. An expert in both theory and practical application, Jay
makes his classes informative, enlightening and fun.”

-Dave Garcia, Assistant Professor, Baylor University Department of Film and Digital Media–
“As an instructor, Jay Black has an attention to detail and a mindful outlook on equality and fairness. His approach to mentoring students transcends the basic delivery of information, instead focusing on the students passions and natural creative abilities. His excitement for the subject matter, as well as his 20+ years of industry experience, make him a strong ally for the student who hopes to reach for the stars.

-Jon Mark Nail, Assistant Professor of Cinematography. Western Carolina University, School of Stage and Screen Film and Television Production. Jon Mark Nail has won more than thirty filmmaking awards. ” –
“I learned so much from Jay Black when he was my professor in film school. He taught more than just the basics of filmmaking. He gave us the tools we needed to create a narrative experience for the audience.”

-Molly Olive, Screenwriter

“My career in film and video production began with film school, and the first two classes I took were taught by Jay Black. I learned more in those classes than any others. Jay Black led us with a passion for filmmaking and knowledge of how to do it that sparked my creativity and drive in this profession. He is a skilled visual storyteller, with extensive practical and theoretical insight into every aspect of production including writing, producing, directing, cinematography, editing and acting. After taking film production classes with Jay Black I knew there was no other path for me. I have made a living in this field ever since, and couldn’t be happier.”

-Neil Grochmal, Senior Videographer and Producer – WHRO Public
Media, Virginia Beach, VA.