about | cedar springs pictures

our approach

specializing in documentary-style storytelling for brands, artists, and ancestors.

Each year, the tree gathers itself into a new ring, a quiet testament to the seasons it has weathered. These rings, laid down in patient rhythm, hold the memory of sunlit days and shadowed nights, a steady accumulation of time’s passage. They form a living record, rooted in the soil of the past, yet stretching toward the promise of what lies ahead.

At Cedar Springs Pictures, we take our cue from this wisdom of the trees. Each story we tell is a layer added to the rings of memory, a way of honoring the lives and moments that shape us. We believe that stories are not solitary things; they are part of a larger cycle, connecting us to one another and to the enduring truths that guide us. Whether we are tracing the roots of your family legacy, giving voice to your mission of a brand, or celebrating you artistry, our work seeks to hold these moments with care.

With deep commitment to equity, inclusivity, and accessibility, we bring an intersectional perspective to every film we craft. Grounded in the belief that every story matters, our films are woven with intention—centered on people, driven by narrative, and shaped by the enduring work of connection and transformation.

our process

1. Storyfinding

The Storyfinding phase ensures we deeply explore the "story space" before a single frame is shot. We invest time in conversations, research, and discovery to unearth the unique elements that make your story not just good but unforgettable. By identifying the strongest characters, themes, and emotions, we create a roadmap for your video that goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about making a connection—whether it’s with fans, customers, or loved ones.

2. Pre-Production

This phase includes concept development, scripting (if needed), storyboarding, and shot planning.

We also handle all the logistics—like scouting the perfect locations, organizing the schedule, and ensuring we have the right team, equipment, and props ready to go. By planning every detail in advance, we make the production process efficient, stress-free, and focused on capturing the moments that matter most.

Think of pre-production as the blueprint for your video—it’s where creative ideas become actionable plans so we can deliver a final product that exceeds your expectations.

3. Production

During production, the science of storytelling remains at the forefront.

Every shot, angle, and lighting choice is intentional, supporting the narrative uncovered in the Storyfinding phase.

Inspired by documentary principles, we ensure that the story drives the visuals—not the other way around.

This focus on authenticity creates videos that feel organic and deeply personal, ensuring they stand out in a world saturated with generic, surface-level content.

4. Post Production

In post-production, we refine your story with the same care and precision, bringing together the visuals, pacing, sound design, and color grading to amplify the emotional core of your message.

The result? A video that not only looks beautiful but feels real, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

meet your guide

Rebecca Branson Jones (she/they) grew up in North Carolina’s rural Piedmont on Cedar Springs Road. Raised by public school teachers and influenced by a lineage of hardworking grandparents—a dairy farmer and an auto mechanic.

Her filmmaking journey began at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC where she dedicated six years to producing documentaries that highlighted the folk culture and music of Western North Carolina.

Jones’s path led to a pivotal role as an apprentice editor for Ken Burns on the PBS documentary “Country Music”. After the project was completed in 2019, Rebecca embarked on a 1600-mile thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail.

In 2020, she joined the Ewers Brothers to work on “Hiding In Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness,” a four-hour PBS documentary.

Today, Rebecca resides on the ancestral lands of the Catawba Peoples in North Carolina, creating short films for businesses, artists, and families alongside playing local gigs as a banjo player and pedal steel guitarist.

Rebecca Branson Jones

Director of Photography | Editor | Creative Development