Behind the Scenes: Vernard James | Camera + Editor
For Vernard James, filmmaking has always been more than just a profession—it’s been a lens through which he’s viewed the world. From a young age, he found himself captivated by the way films could move people, shift perspectives and spark imagination. That lifelong passion eventually led him to ASR Media, where he now brings a thoughtful, cinematic touch to every project he works on as a camera operator and editor.
That passion for film came into sharp focus in 2012, when Vernard saw The Avengers in theaters. What might have been just another blockbuster for most became a defining moment for him.
“It was a transcendent experience,” Vernard said. “That was when I realized just how much I adore filmmaking.”
While the path forward wasn’t immediately obvious, that moment planted the seed for a future shaped by creativity, emotion and a love for the art of visual storytelling.
Born and raised in Allentown, Vernard went on to study television and film at DeSales University, graduating in 2019. There, he poured his creativity into short films that earned recognition, including winning the DUFFY Award for Best Overall Film at the DeSales University Film Festival two years in a row. His time at DeSales allowed him to explore both the artistic and technical sides of production, building a foundation that continues to serve him well at ASR Media. Additionally, Vernard’s films have won multiple awards at national film festivals.
In high school, Vernard had already shown a knack for impactful storytelling, directing a first-place-winning video for a Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) contest. In college, he continued to hone his skills, freelancing and creating meaningful projects, including a short film inspired by his own upbringing, which he made in collaboration with a childhood friend.
That growth continued when Vernard joined ASR Media in 2023, stepping into his first official role as a camera operator and editor—a position he still proudly holds. Over time, he has become increasingly involved in the technical aspects of production, refining lighting, composition, and overall visual quality. His creative instincts and steady hand behind the camera help shape the tone and polish of every project he touches.
One project that stands out to Vernard is a piece for St. Luke’s University Health Network focused on mental health.
“The subject had a really moving story,” he said. “The team trusted me to do some creative things with it, and I think those choices enhanced the story even more.”
With a love for storytelling and a constant drive to grow, Vernard remains deeply inspired by the work of other filmmakers and sees each project as a new opportunity to refine his craft.
“I know my craft still has ways to grow,” he said. “That definitely motivates me.”
Outside of ASR, Vernard wears many creative hats. He’s a small-scale independent filmmaker, writing and directing passion projects whenever he can. He’s also an avid basketball player and a dedicated teen ministry leader, spending time each week supporting youth in his community.
With heart, humility and a camera in hand, Vernard is helping to tell the stories that move people—and doing it with the same wonder that first drew him to video production when he saw The Avengers in theaters over a decade ago.