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About

Real stories, shot like they matter.

I'm Josh Nagel, a director and cinematographer based in Toledo, Ohio, creating cinematic commercial and documentary work for brands, agencies, and people with a story worth telling.

Josh Nagel operating a Sony cinema camera and monitor at a racetrack at golden hour, backlit by the sun.

Background

Through Josh Nagel Productions, I lead projects from the first conversation through final delivery — building the right crew, finding the human angle, and making work that feels intentional on every frame. My approach is rooted in strong visuals, natural performances, and stories that give people a reason to care.

How I work

I direct and shoot commercial and branded documentary work from development through delivery — treatments, casting and location scouting, production, and post — for teams who need one dependable partner across the whole process, not just a camera on the day.

Whether it's a national campaign, a documentary film, or a lean production that needs to move fast, I bring the same thing to the work: a clear point of view, a calm set, and a film built to hold attention.

“Josh is one of the most passionate, empathetic, and meticulous people I’ve ever met. He has an impeccable vision for storytelling and capturing raw, beautiful moments.”

— Emily U., Client

Selected credits

My work has included productions for Netflix's Full Swing (Producer), Sony Music Entertainment, Applebee's, the USGA, The Wall Street Journal / Campbell's (Director of Photography), Blanton's, Sandals Resorts, LAUV, Pentatonix, Dewesoft (Director of Photography), and more — plus Director of Photography on a production for NBC Sports. It has also been featured on ESPN, TNT Sports, and DAZN, and my long-form work includes the feature-length documentaries ONE and H.O.O.V.E.S.: Healing Our Veterans.

Production partners include JPA Creative, Jake's Group, and BVK.

See the full record →

Community

Josh serves on FilmToledo's Advisory Council, supporting the growth of film production and creative opportunity across Northwest Ohio.

Press & Recognition

In the news