Not really an agency.
Sort of a freelancer.
Definitely a Business Partner.
Sort of a freelancer.
Definitely a Business Partner.
People
Our Team.
You’ll always work directly with Charles, and for larger projects, we’ll build a team of specialized freelancers on a case by case basis. When each contributing member is saying yes to your project, you know everyone is excited about your specific goals. Happy freelancers lead to happy clients.
About Charles.
Hello there! I'm Charles, an independent photographer and graphic designer specializing in architectural photography, adventure photography, illustration, and web/user experience design.
My creative journey began while studying Graphic Design at Champlain College in Burlington, VT. During that time, I joined the team at HG Skis and helped run the company, working on everything from ski graphics to branding to cinematography and editing of the 3 ski films we produced and premiered. Our last film, Eat The Guts, premiered around the world and was nominated for “Discovery of the year”, “Best Short Movie”, and “Standout Urban Movie” at the International Freeski Festival.
My time spent in the cold streets of Quebec filming urban skiing transitioned to even colder mornings skinning up Berthoud Pass in Winter Park, CO after I moved to work as the graphic designer at the resort. Discovering powder skiing and larger mountains reinvigorated my love for the sport despite two blown ACLs in seasons prior. The world of mountain bikes and rock climbing also opened its doors when ski season ended and summer gave way.
It was during my transition to freelancing in Bozeman, MT when an unexpected opportunity to photograph rental properties in the area led me to discover my love for architectural and interiors photography. What initially seemed like a pleasant way to spend a day quickly became an addictive blend of challenge and creativity.
Being something of a generalized specialist, I've learned each creative discipline informs the other, providing unique results in each.The ability to switch between these creative fields energizes me, and enables me to provide so much more than an ultra-specialized service for my clients. Understanding how each of these services contributes to an overall brand is crucial - when you are the one doing the research, designing the logo, composing the photo and then using it to design the ad, you come to understand quite a bit more about how to create an entire branded experience from start to finish.
My creative journey began while studying Graphic Design at Champlain College in Burlington, VT. During that time, I joined the team at HG Skis and helped run the company, working on everything from ski graphics to branding to cinematography and editing of the 3 ski films we produced and premiered. Our last film, Eat The Guts, premiered around the world and was nominated for “Discovery of the year”, “Best Short Movie”, and “Standout Urban Movie” at the International Freeski Festival.
My time spent in the cold streets of Quebec filming urban skiing transitioned to even colder mornings skinning up Berthoud Pass in Winter Park, CO after I moved to work as the graphic designer at the resort. Discovering powder skiing and larger mountains reinvigorated my love for the sport despite two blown ACLs in seasons prior. The world of mountain bikes and rock climbing also opened its doors when ski season ended and summer gave way.
It was during my transition to freelancing in Bozeman, MT when an unexpected opportunity to photograph rental properties in the area led me to discover my love for architectural and interiors photography. What initially seemed like a pleasant way to spend a day quickly became an addictive blend of challenge and creativity.
Being something of a generalized specialist, I've learned each creative discipline informs the other, providing unique results in each.The ability to switch between these creative fields energizes me, and enables me to provide so much more than an ultra-specialized service for my clients. Understanding how each of these services contributes to an overall brand is crucial - when you are the one doing the research, designing the logo, composing the photo and then using it to design the ad, you come to understand quite a bit more about how to create an entire branded experience from start to finish.
Charles has built a network of specialized freelancers and small agencies to build creative teams from. Here are a few and their specialties.
Jake Caggige
Jake Caggige is a multidisciplinary designer with experience spanning from digital to physical, crafting solutions for clients on the global scale down to local start-ups. Based in Burlington, Vermont.
Brand Design
A great brand not only connects emotionally with the customer, but acts as a clear and easy-to-follow north star for the the continued growth of the brand. Our branding services encompass everything from brand strategy and visual identity development to logo design and brand guidelines. We delve deep into your brand's essence to create a distinctive and cohesive identity that is built with purpose and reason; not just a pretty logo.
Website Design
For many businesses websites are the primary way that customers interact with the brand. Achieving a perfect brand execution while building a user friendly website is a challenge we have spent years dialing in. Our skilled team of designers and developers excel at responsive design, intuitive interfaces, and meaningful engagement that are grounded in intentional brand and business goals.
Webflow & No Code Development
By utilizing Webflow and other no-code development solutions, we provide our clients with the flexibility to make updates, add content, and manage their websites without extensive development knowledge. You'll have the freedom to maintain and evolve your website independently, without relying on technical expertise.
Zack Warren
I build websites and data driven web and mobile applications. I’m a full stack kinda guy, doing everything from frontend styling and UX to backend logic and integration. I’m incredibly passionate about all things web development!
Wordpress Development
With our expertise in WordPress, we transform your ideas into immersive digital experiences that are easy for your team to update. Our skilled team ensures seamless functionality, responsive design, and user-friendly interfaces, empowering you to establish a strong online presence.
Shopify Development
We craft engaging and optimized online stores tailored to your brand's unique identity. From customizing themes to integrating secure payment gateways, we ensure a seamless shopping experience for your customers. Our team can harness the power of Shopify to help you drive sales, enhance conversions, and grow your online business.
Web & Mobile App Development
Taking your digital presence to the next level with a comprehensive web or mobile app can be daunting! We're here to streamline that process while providing sleek and interactive user experiences that brings your ideas to live.
Holler
If we need a video as part of your brand growth project we need to look no further than Holler. With experience ranging from music videos to large commercial film sets, (& a world class drone pilot named George), Holler is just a shout away.
Video Production
We specialize in captivating video production that tells your story in a visually compelling way. Our talented team of videographers and editors work closely with you to understand your vision and create high-quality videos that engage and inspire your audience. From concept development to post-production, we handle every aspect of the video production process, ensuring a professional and polished final product that leaves a lasting impression.
FPV / Aerial Cinematography
Experience a new perspective with our breathtaking aerial cinematography services. We'll use cutting-edge drone technology and skilled pilots to capture stunning aerial shots that add a sense of grandeur and scale to your visual projects. Whether it's capturing expansive landscapes, architectural masterpieces, or dynamic action sequences, our aerial cinematography elevates your storytelling and creates truly memorable visuals that leave a lasting impact.
Studio Trev
I strive to create art that brings you to a special moment in time. A place that has a feeling of sunshine, vacation, and good vibes. I love to create images that you can relate to, bringing you to a place that you hold dear, or a feeling you would like to have someday. When you look at my work I hope it makes you feel a special connection to this life.
Illustration
We bring ideas to life through captivating illustrations that spark imagination and convey messages with visual impact. Our skilled illustrators possess a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of various artistic styles, allowing us to create unique and engaging illustrations that align with your brand identity. Whether it's for branding, marketing materials, or editorial purposes, our illustrations evoke emotion and enhance storytelling, making a lasting impression on your target audience.
Ben Dann
As an action sports cinematographer for clients such as Red Bull, Teton Gravity Research, and HBO, Ben has the adventure production experience and network to help tell your brands outdoor story, large or small.
Video Production
We specialize in captivating video production that tells your story in a visually compelling way. Our talented team of videographers and editors work closely with you to understand your vision and create high-quality videos that engage and inspire your audience. From concept development to post-production, we handle every aspect of the video production process, ensuring a professional and polished final product that leaves a lasting impression.
Koda
Studio pup and #goodboi, Koda keeps the vibes high, the kibble pile low, and the sticks retrieved. With a teammate like this, we’ll be unstoppable.
Kibble Destruction
Our furry team member brings his unrivaled talent for kibble destruction to Charles Stemen Studio. With a playful and determined spirit, he expertly demolishes any bowl of kibble in record time. No matter the size or shape, this canine dynamo takes on the challenge with gusto, leaving no kibbles behind. His impressive kibble destruction skills are sure to impress both humans and fellow four-legged friends alike.
Stick & Toy Retrieval
They say on the 4th day, God made stick, and Kodas' passion lies in the retrieval of such. With lightning-fast reflexes and a sometimes worrisome unyielding determination, he excels at fetching sticks, balls, and toys of all shapes and sizes. His ability to retrieve with precision and enthusiasm adds a touch of playful charm to our team, and hopefully soon, to yours.
