Crafting Cinematic Magic

Meet the VisionariesBehind the Lens

The Storytellers Behind OurWork

At Impact Stories, we specialize in authentic storytelling through documentary-style films, testimonials, and mission-driven videos that inspire trust and connection. Our passion lies in capturing real stories that reflect purpose, humanity, and integrity – helping professionals and organizations communicate who they are and why they matter.

We partner with mission-driven brands and organizations of every scale to tell stories that strengthen reputation and build lasting relationships through film.

Our expertise includes:

Strategic Storytelling
Helping mission-driven professionals and organizations communicate with clarity and sincerity, creating stories that build credibility and emotional connection.

Collaborative Leadership
Guiding creative teams with empathy and purpose, ensuring every project feels personal, intentional, and aligned with your mission.

Cinematography with Purpose
Blending visual artistry with thoughtful communication to create films that move people, not just visually, but emotionally and ethically.

Insight-Driven Story Development
Drawing from observation, collaboration, and audience understanding to ensure every story feels true, relevant, and meaningful.

Human-Centered Approach
Every film is crafted with care, aligning with your values, voice, and vision, because authentic storytelling begins with genuine understanding.

 

Two individuals observe a photoshoot, one holding a camera while the other is behind, with bright lighting and a dark backdrop
Two men in black shirts collaborate to adjust equipment on a stand in a bright, minimalist studio setting

What We Stand For:

  • At Impact Stories, we believe filmmaking is about more than production, itโ€™s about partnership, purpose, and trust. We take pride in building lasting relationships through storytelling that feels human, thoughtful, and true to the people behind every mission.

    Our Values:

    • Authenticity: We tell stories with honesty and care, ensuring every project reflects real people, real purpose, and real impact.
      Trust & Collaboration:ย We value genuine connection over competition, working closely with our partners to bring shared visions to life.
      Craftsmanship: We give every project the same level of attention, no matter its size, because integrity lives in the details.
      Meaningful Growth:ย We commit to growing as filmmakers and as people, always learning, listening, and evolving through the stories we tell.

Our Mindset:

We approach every collaboration with empathy, patience, and professionalism. We stay grounded under pressure, focused on solutions, and guided by purpose. We listen before we create, because understanding comes first, and great storytelling begins with trust.

We love working with mission-driven professionals, communicators, and organizations who believe storytelling can strengthen relationships and inspire real connection.

If that sounds like you, weโ€™d love to start a conversation.

Behind the Scenes

Impact Stories

Lead Cinematographer

Iโ€™m Jesse Ovalles, a cinematographer and storyteller based in Westchester, NY. With a background in both filmmaking and marketing, I help mission-driven professionals and organizations share their stories through authentic, purpose-led filmmaking.

My journey began at Syracuse University, where I earned a BFA in Video Production, followed by an MBA in Marketing from Mercy College. That creative-meets-strategy foundation continues to shape how I approach every project, blending artistry with intention to craft stories that connect, represent, and endure.

Over the years, Iโ€™ve collaborated with NYC agencies like McCann Erickson on national campaigns for brands such as Mastercard, and served as a cinematographer and editor for clients including Showtime. In 2019, I founded Jesse O. Visuals, which later evolved into Impact Stories, a filmmaking studio dedicated to helping professionals, nonprofits, and organizations communicate their mission with honesty, empathy, and trust.

A person wearing a black t-shirt holds a professional camera rig, with a plant in the background against a gray backdrop
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