Meet
Eero Johnson
I’m a filmmaker living in Bellingham, Washington.
For over 20 years I’ve produced commercials, corporate films, product videos, documentaries, music videos, social media videos, and just about every other kind of video or short film you can think of.
I have a great group of clients and I love what I do.
Interested in working together or just want to chat? Give me a call at 360-510-8420.
(Eero is a Finnish name. Think “bow and arrow” and your on the right track.)
A Brief History
How it all started
I began making movies on my Dad’s Super-8 camera when I was in grade school. As a kid, it was a thrill to make plastic spiders attack, and film exploding spaceships (achieved by pouring lighter fluid on a model spacecraft and throwing a match as the camera rolled).
Little did I know these antics would shape who I am today.
I continue to make creative, personal projects as time allows. It’s a great way to challenge myself, take risks, learn new skills, and have a really fun time.
Still from “The Visitor”, winner of scariest picture at Bleedingham Film Festival
Eero Johnson sharing footage during filming of “Door to the Sky”.
Mongolia
In 2004 I was hired to shoot a documentary film in Mongolia titled “Door to the Sky”.
This is where I really cut my teeth as a camera operator. Days were spent filming the lives of the horse people of Mongolia, and capturing the beauty of the countryside. At night we’d sleep on the ground or in a Ger (basically a Mongolian Yurt). Since we had no electricity, camera batteries had to be charged using portable solar panels. Fighting the elements was a constant battle. It was awesome.
I drank a lot of warm Yak milk.
Coast Salish Culture
In 2007 I began working with the Tulalip Tribes Media Department producing short films about the history, culture and events of the Coast Salish Tribes and Nations of the Pacific Northwest.
Much of my style today is influenced by my time directing documentary films; working efficiently with limited time and resources and finding the beauty in authentic moments. These skills allow me to work more affordably, without compromising on production value.
Today, nearly 20 years later, I continue to work regularly with the Tulip Tribes and continue to tell stories of Coast Salish Culture.
Still from filming Tribal Canoe Journey 2024, landing in Tulalip Bay.
Still from Comfort Handle promo for Amazon
Commercials
Along with documentary work, I began filming and producing commercial spots for television. As technology changed, this evolved to include YouTube ads, Amazon videos, web videos and social media content.
By blending modern marketing strategy with creative storytelling and cinematography I help companies grow and thrive. I have many repeat clients, including some that I have been working with for over a decade.
If you are looking for more clients, more sales, more results, we should chat.
Drone Video
My first aerial footage involved a rented helicopter with the passenger door removed, and me hanging out the side with a camera. As exciting as that was, times have changed.
With the arrival of drones, aerial footage has become accessible to all of my clients. And there is something I find so compelling about seeing the birds eye view of the world.
I am an FAA licensed drone pilot and offer aerial video to all clients and am available as a freelance drone pilot.
View of Microsoft Campus. Drone video for Microsoft, Redmond, WA.
Interviewing actor Wes Studi for NWIN
People
One of my favorite aspects of film production is the people I meet and the amazing clients I work with.
One question people ask me is if I ever work with anyone famous. While fame is not part of my day-to-day routine, rarely does a project go by where I’m not inspired by the perseverance, caring, courage, or humor that lives in the people I work with. Some are well known, and some are simply neighbors who have a vision for a better future.
And some are Wes Studi, who will always be Magua to me. Or Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn.
Telling Stories
Telling stories is at the heart of what I do.
A good story gets us excited – stories inspire us, teach us something new, or make us think.
I’m passionate about helping my clients tell their stories in a way that inspires action. From brand awareness and recruitment films to educational videos, product demos, fundraising and more.
Everyone has a story to tell. I can help you tell yours.
Still from brand video for “Museum of Glass” Tacoma, WA.
Setting up for an interview at Cordata Gallery, Bellingham, WA
Behind the Scenes
EJ Visuals has evolved into a full-service video and film production company.
My process is simple but effective. I generally run a small crew to be as light and nimble as possible. I employ high-end cinema cameras and top quality audio and lighting gear, the same as you might find on a Hollywood film set.
I not only offer cinematic production, I also offer creative development ranging from script writing to video marketing strategy.
From concept to delivery, I am with you every step of the way.
Sharing Knowledge
I also enjoy teaching film and video to others.
I’ve taught film, video and creativity in numerous classrooms. I have been several times a guest lecturer at Western Washington University and I’ve served as a guest speaker at events and graduations. I spent several years leading the Public Access Television Program for the City of Bellingham, creating curriculum and teaching television production. I am currently on the media advisory committee for Skagit Valley College.
I love being able to share my knowledge and passion with others.
Eero Johnson teaching a film production class for the City of Bellingham
Eero receives Lifetime Achievement Award at Tulalip Hibulb Museum
Lifetime Achievement Award
In 2022 I was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award by the Tulalip Tribes for my work in Coast Salish cultural sharing and storytelling.
The ceremony took place in the Hibulb Longhouse. Being wrapped in the ceremonial blanket was a moment I will always remember.
Truly an honor.
To be continued
A lot has happened since those early days. And the truth is … I’m just getting started.
I’d love your project to be my next.
Lets chat:
email: eero@ejvisuals.com
cell: 360-510-8420
Eero filming on Bellingham Bay
Let’s Get Started
Contact Director Eero Johnson