Life & Work with Patrick Johnston

Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick Johnston.

Hi Patrick, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi everyone! My name is Patrick Johnston and I’ve always loved movies and any behind-the-scenes pictures or stories about my favorite films. To pursue my passion for filmmaking, I went to The Art Institute of Ohio in Cincinnati and while I was there I networked all over. I went to just about every local film meet-up and jumped on as many productions as I could as a PA, Grip, or Storyboard Artist.

I graduated in 2014 and shortly thereafter I started working in Creative Services at WHIO-TV here in Dayton doing commercial video production, script writing, producing, videography, editing and motion graphics. I was in this role for over 6 years and transitioned to a full service video marketing agency called ‘Boom Crate Studios’ also located here Dayton and have just celebrated being here for a year.

In addition to my day to day, I work on some local and major films and commercials as an Actor and have been doing that for over 6 years as well. And when the acting side started to take a life of its own then I made the jump and signed on with Heyman Talent Agency and have been with them for 2 years currently.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely wasn’t a smooth road. This business is extremely competitive both in front of and behind the camera. There are so many talented individuals here in Ohio and I’ve been very lucky to get the opportunities I’ve had and to work with some of the best to learn and continue to grow in this profession.

It was not easy but consistently being a part of the film community by going to networking events, helping others when needed and just being excited about what we do and bringing a positive attitude to every set speaks volumes. If it wasn’t for those values then I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I get to dabble both behind and in front of the camera. In my full-time role, I’m a videographer and editor for Boom Crate Studios. Outside of Boom Crate, I’m an actor with Heyman Talent Agency and have been a part of numerous productions ranging from Independent Films to major Motion Pictures.

I can be seen in the dark comedy feature film, ‘All Your Friends Are Dead’ the soon-to-be-released action feature, ‘Treasure of the Ninja 2’, and will be starring in the upcoming feature film “The Cruel”. When I’m not on set I make it a point to volunteer any spare time to visit children’s hospitals and make appearances at charity events with the cosplay group ‘Hero Strong’ as the #GemCitySpiderman.

I’ve been lucky to work with several organizations such as A Kid Again, A Special Wish Foundation, Children’s Tumor Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Dayton Children’s Hospital, and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Going to local film meetups has been one of my biggest successes and I think that’s a great start for anyone looking to find their way as well as joining various film groups on Facebook.

And when you start meeting professionals here in the area and get the chance to work on set, I can’t say enough about having a positive attitude and mindset. Bringing that kind of energy is infectious and makes work much more fun. We’re doing something creative and making some amazing work to showcase and entertain. And the work we do matters and makes an impact. It doesn’t get any better than that.

Contact Info:

• Website: boomcrate.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/official_pjohnston

Image Credits
Tifani Winkfield and Ernie Mueller