While we typically reserve the PS Legend title for all of the amazing people we work with, it is not every day that one of our own leaves Production Squad - allowing us the rare opportunity to reflect & write-up this true Legend for Life. And while Brenna may be officially be leaving the Squad for other professional endeavors, she will forever have a place in everyone’s hearts!

The light, energy, and contagious laughter that radiates from Brenna is hard to describe. She is quick-witted with lightning fast remarks and smart humor that is delivered with a smirk and always filled with love. She is clever, intelligent, and highly informed - one of those people who knows about all current events, viral vids and memes, and pop culture happenings looong before the rest of the internet.

She’s a meticulous researcher, and impressively educated on the histories of many nations - keenly aware of the state of the world and our place in it. She loves animals more than anyone we know, and while she doesn’t personally own a pet - every pet that meets her, loves her as though she were their owner.

She is also one of the most uniquely creative and computer savvy people - designing insanely skillful artwork and graphics; helping friends everywhere achieve artificially flawless photos via her impeccable photoshop skills; as well as writing her own murder mysteries and sci-fi books in her free time. She has a deep appreciation of music, and we will forever miss pass van karaoke, belting the words to show tunes and singing to Jordin Sparks jams after fan-girling her on set.

The level of admiration we have for Brenna is indescribable - we look up to her every day. She is the BEST friend EVER and an honest voice of reason. She has a laudable sense of herself and what is right and wrong in the world that does not waiver. She exudes confidence and comfort that is so palpable, you want to be around her all the time. You would never know she is actually an introvert!

Thank you Brenna, for the countless hours you’ve devoted to this company - the laughs, the kindness, the support… you are truly irreplaceable and SO LOVED by SO many people. You went above and beyond in this role and we know that you will make an indelible mark anywhere you go. We love you SO much and will forever be grateful of our time in production together!!!!!!!!!!

And yes - she’s available for hire!!! Unless…..Brenna, do you want your job back???

It’s May, and you know that that means - springtime, and more importantly - a new PS Legend!!

This month we celebrate Tricia Turner - a multi-dimensional veteran of the industry and one of our favorite humans. SF-based but works locally up and down the west coast, Tricia is an insanely talent hair & makeup artist, beautifully executing projects from lifestyle shoots to costume makeup. But her skills don’t end there - she is also an amazing photographer with an increasing number of campaigns under her belt, capturing incredible beauty, fashion, and portraiture shots for a number of popular brands.

On set, Tricia manages to create a strong collaborative environment across the entire glam team - making the process a team effort & all the more fun and efficient. She’s extremely balanced and no nonsense - she gets the job done with a smile and zero complaints. She’s also a movie buff with an unparalleled memory bank of of quotes, and hilariously loves any 90s fashion supermodel music. Thank you Tricia for everything you do - we’re grateful to get to work with you!

YURI!

Where to even begin to describe such an amazingly incredible, talented, kindhearted & modest human. Legend is an understatement.

If you have not had the honor & pleasure of meeting or working with Yuri Hasegawa, you have yet to meet your favorite person ever. Yuri’s kindness & thoughtfulness is unmatched - endlessly genuine, Yuri engages with everyone she comes across. She appreciates every single person on set & takes the time throughout the day to thank them for their contribution. Her gratefulness and modesty is inspiring, her hugs are unparalleled, and her energy is truly contagious.

Yuri’s incredibly bright spirit comes out in her powerful images, creating an environment and aura through her positivity that you can’t help but smile and laugh throughout the day. She is also a sneaky amazing (previously professional) dancer, caring animal-lover, and one of the sweetest & true friends to talk to about life. Thank you for your hard work and inspiring us every day to be better versions of ourselves!! We love you Yuri!!!

This month, we’re excited to recognize one of our most cherished & talented friends and coworkers - Lisa Moir. Lisa is truly one of a kind - from her killer style to her unmatched kindness and calming presence, we appreciate any day on set with her. She somehow balances being a mom of two amazing cuties, her work as a wardrobe stylist, as well as her NEW sustainable fashion line, Valdesmonts - an incredible company that uses carbon farmed / climate beneficial fibers from CA & OR and promotes real environmental healing (a percentage of every order also is donated to indigenous organizations). Onset, Lisa never disappoints nor complains, approaching even the most challenging of shoots with palpable calmness and putting everyone around her at ease — something so valuable on the most hectic days. She is a soulful adventurer who’s light, sunny energy you just always want to be around. We love you Lisa and your dedication to making the world a better place!

It’s a new year, but legends are forever! This month we’re excited to honor and celebrate one of the best in the business & one of our favorite people. A veteran of the industry, Matt’s been scouting & managing locations in NorCal for 21 years with Birdman Inc.

When he’s not finding the perfect location in the Bay Area, Matt is busy being the world’s greatest husband and dad to his two boys, constantly hiking, biking, and camping all over the West Coast. He’s also an amazing fine art photographer, and you can tell through his work how much he loves his job and the outdoors, capturing beautiful landscapes & scenes through his adventures as a scout (check out www.mattreoch.com). As a location manager, Matt’s commitment on shoots is unrivaled, always down to hop into whatever needs to be done and taking incredible care of all homes & spaces as if they were his own. Not to mention it is pure enjoyment to be onset with Matt - his attitude, amazing energy, and perspective make him one of the easiest and funnest people to connect with and be around. We love and appreciate you Matt, and look forward to every shoot with you!

PS Legend of the Month is BACK with someone beyond deserving and extra special - the one, the only, Christine Bullen.  While Christine’s ability to run any set with poise, logic, and ease may make you think production is her first love, it is in fact just only one of her MANY talents.  Christine is a wildly successful writer, actor, and comedian, and we couldn’t be happier to be the test subjects of all of her jokes and skits - which keep us laughing through even the hardest of days.  Christine is also an artist director at UCB LA and highly involved in the LA comedy community, leading us to wonder how she balances successfully running shoots during the day & setting up amazing shows at night.  Not to mention she is a mother to the the CUTEST baby girl, Sadie, who - along with her husband - have become the subject of some of the most gleefully hilarious videos that make parenting actually look fun & entertaining.  And lucky for all of us - Christine actually has a new show coming out at the Dynasty Typewriter on Oct 17th that shouldn’t be missed! See her instagram for more details!! We so appreciate you Christine & your ability to take on any challenge on set & in life with such grace and a hilarious perspective that makes everything more enjoyable.  Thank you for being you!! 

One of the greatest in the game - if you’re lucky enough to have Ernie Torres on set, you know it’s going to be a smooth shoot. He’s highly sought after, and for good reason: Ernie takes initiative and is always one step ahead with his get-things-done attitude.  He keeps a watchful eye on the entire production - before you can  even say the word “easy up” he’s got the whole crew covered and comfortable.  Ultra present & a true leader, Ernie is a friend to all & has resources all over LA, always providing value and helpful ideas wherever he can.  Plus he’s been to almost every location that you’ll shoot (whether to work, or skate it), providing insider knowledge everywhere he goes.  Usually in his standard Nike skate shoes, white tank, and shorts (has anyone ever seen Ernie wear pants???), his production uniform allows any opportunity to fit a quick skate sesh in - one of his more impressive Thrasher-recognized talents. He’s also a pretty sweet dog dad to Prince and maintains some inspirational meditation practices to keep up his sanity in this business.  It is always such a good time working together - we love you Ern, and SO appreciate everything you do!!!!

It is about time for this coast-cruising, pickup-truck-driving, loom-weaving earth angel to show up on the legends list. Meredith is one of the most special and most beautiful people you will ever come across - and we are so grateful for her in our production family. Always down to explore new places and meet new people, Meredith has a natural aura and shine surrounding her that draws so many to her. Onset (and off), her easy-going nature is bolstered by her amazing work ethic & willingness to help anybody with anything — she approaches any problem with a calmness and grace that we all could use more of. A rare goddess of a spirit that is as comfortable off-roading trucks & getting in the dirt as she is modeling in front of the camera, Meredith is truly down for everything - no ego & no questions asked. Her connection and love for this earth is clear, constantly making the time to hike, bike, surf, garden - anything to get her in nature. And stemming from this, her creative endeavors are yet another trait that makes her so special - she is skilled in textile dying with natural materials, as well as weaving the most beautiful art pieces on her loom by hand. Not to mention she is an insanely talented bass player & was in a ripping all-girls band in a past life… There is truly nothing that this girl cannot do, and we are inspired daily by her & her incredible attitude about life. We love you Meredith - thank you for everything that you do!!

Long overdue on this list of legends is MATTMAC, one of the greatest in the game. Matt kick-pushed all the way from his hometown of Tampa FL to Long Beach CA - and then into collective West Coast hearts. He goes above and beyond on every shoot, always anticipating the next move & taking on all tasks with charge. He’s traversed all of California as honorary guardian of the PS truck fleet, overseeing our 4-wheeled babies from job-to-job — but not without stopping at a few skate parks along the way. Matt’s friendly, warm demeanor and ability to approach all tasks with a comforting ease makes him easy to rely on. Even on the most stressful days on set, Matt keeps his cool. He’s got a hilarious sense of humor, the most precious pup (shout out to Lady), and oh did we mention he’s also going to school for welding??! Matt is THE full legend package & we are grateful every time we get to work with him!!!

This and any month’s legend is none other than Brother Ben Brinker, everyone’s favorite midwestern with a heart of gold. An Indiana native & former tennis star, Ben is one of those indescribable characters you would imagine only exist in the halls of 30 Rock assisting Liz Lemon. You may catch him wheeling his beloved cat Bubbles in a baby stroller around Silver Lake, or onset making everyone laugh as he recounts one of his many animated & entertaining anecdotes - again, each one fit for an episode on a TV comedy.

Not just a great story-teller, Ben is also an amazing listener and cares deeply to engage with the world in a thoughtful way. He can make friends with anyone & everyone - just ask local Yucca Valley Von’s parking lot musician Dave, who was as quick a fan of Ben’s as Ben was of his. But his unique sense of humor, genuine honesty, & soul-warming compliments make Ben hard not to love – and one of the BEST people to have on a job. He is the definition of “say yes with a smile,” and no matter the task, approaches everything with patience & positivity, while always keeping a watchful & considerate eye on the needs of the rest of the production. Thank you for all of the support & always making us laugh Brotha!! We love you!!

We’re so grateful for you to be part of the fam!! 

ALLIE OWEN - who DOESN’T love this girl? 

One of the best & brightest energies you will ever meet, Allie always brings light and laughter to everyone around her. Not only a fashionista and straight up blonde bombshell, she’s also a low-key comedic genius with a quick wit and hilariously refreshing perspective.  She’s super sweet, but feisty and spirited - challenging even the wittiest of Jesse Lerman’s and Kevin Vu’s with her entertaining banter.  But Allie does well balancing her aptitude for fun with her always professional, get-the-job-done attitude onset.  She’s fully down to jump into whatever is needed for the production, whether its her first love - wardrobe styling - or photo assisting, set design, or in her newly-certified covid compliance officer role.  Yes, she does tend to pick around any & all vegetables from catering and would prefer to have In N Out and cupcakes every day, but we’re working on that…. 

She’s one of the most supportive and loving friends, always making time to listen, care, & discuss.  Not to mention all of the amazingly inspiring work she does with her church & community - AND on top of that, she has insane dance moves.  This girl really is the full package!!!  We love you so much Allie & are honored and grateful for you to be part of the fam!! 

It was only a matter of time before this gem of a guy showed up on the PS Legends list, as he is one of the most deserving people of the title every month! One of the most diligent & honest people we know, Tyson approaches every project with passion and commitment, treating it as more than just a job & going above and beyond to strive for quality and efficiency.  But aside from his hardworking nature, what makes Tyson truly impressive is his positive attitude, kind demeanor, and levelheaded ability to deal with any problem thrown his way with a smile and “no problem!” Tyson is a natural leader, but also a team player, constantly open to collaboration and figuring out new efficiencies.  On and off set, he treats everyone he encounters not just with decency, but with genuine respect, time, & care.  We appreciate you and all that you do, Tyson!! Thanks for all of your hard work and commitment, it doesn’t go unnoticed!

We’re kicking off PS Legend of the Month with none other than the man, the myth, and the total ledge himself - ROCKY. You want Rocky on your team when it comes to onset security, and general life. Balboa has nothing on our guy in terms of greatness and ability to make any location into a makeshift gym. Rocky’s tough and poignant presence lets anyone know not to try anything funny - a necessary energy to have around a downtown basecamp parking lot. But beyond this bulldog’s rough exterior is one of the kindest, gentlest spirits you will ever meet. His value on family & loyalty is endearingly unwavering – and when he’s not protecting our crews, you can find Rocky at a car show or bbq with friends, hanging with his French bulldogs, or straight up just being the best & cutest grandpa ever. We love you Rock!!! Thank you for always making us feel safe & part of the family!

“Aaaaaalllll right guys” - Mikey McCann - pretty sure this guy’s middle name is “legend.” Already almost a 20-year veteran of the industry, Mikey started hustling at a young age to build a solid empire for himself that is still on the rise. His entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic, plus his genuine nature and team mentality, make Mikey one of the most versatile and reliable crew members onset - from locations and production to 2nd ADing and expendables. He sets the tone on every shoot with his positivity and can-do, shining attitude (remember, “if you aren’t 15 minutes early, you’re late,” and if you’re late he’ll jiu-jitsu your ass). Mikey is one of those impressive leaders who demands excellence from all those around him just by his presence, while always approaching everyone with love and respect - even (& especially) when shit hits the high-fashion fan. As one of the most hilarious friends and storytellers, its hard not to always be laughing and smiling around Mikey - a nod to the aptly named production supplies company (@smileequipmentrentals). Mikey, you inspire us daily with your motivation, generosity, and continual check-ins on set. You’ve managed to build so much and give so many opportunities to others - you are truly a legend and the production world wouldn’t be the same without you! We know you’re going to be the BEST dad ever!!

This week’s legends are a team of real-life superheroes who rival the likes of the Avengers and Justice League. No kids shoot is complete (or legal ) without the unstoppable crew that is My LA Teachers. This group of women has been in the business for years and they’re a no-brainer call when it comes to studio teacher needs in LA. We’ve been lucky enough to consistently work with Cyndi, Erin, and Elisa - but similar to the Avengers stacked roster, you know anyone LA Teachers deploys will be top quality! Kids burst out of the pass van with excitement to see these ladies, and adults alike appreciate all of the smiles, hugs, and stickers. They are all insanely knowledgeable and keep a loving & watchful eye on both the kids the production — and their input is KEY to keeping schedules flowing smoothly. Some of the most kind-hearted & considerate women we know, they somehow always manage to maintain a tranquil & positive energy onset - a feat that that has become even more impressive after 2 months of attempted quarantine homeschooling. Thank you My LA Teachers for taking care all of us over years - we appreciate and love you girls!

Who IS that spectacled, sexy Zorro arriving to set 30 minutes early with a swish of his cape, armed with a brush in one hand and hairspray in another? On cue, you hear Robyn music bumping softly in the background and realize — its none other than legendary hair stylist & fashion connoisseur Rick Gradone! Every day on set with Rick is a hilarious improv skit & runway, filled with the wittiest and most creative banter worthy of SNL. And speaking of acting - you also may recognize Rick from his unforgettable role as Fashion Show Attendee 3 in Sweet Home Alabama. On a styling level - everything this man touches turns to gold, whether it is a frosty Halloween Ice Queen, three high-fashion models with multiple looks, or prepping six toddlers in thirty minutes. He truly is a unicorn of the hair world. When he’s not entertaining the entire crew on set, he’s tapping into his constantly-overflowing creative bucket through writing, performing, and recently his insanely beautiful fashion line, An Ocean Voyage (@anoceanvoyage). At his core, Rick has the kindest and most beautiful heart & always takes a moment to thoughtfully connect with everyone around him. We feel so lucky to know you, Rick - we love you!!!

What do you get when you combine cardboard, Crocs™, hula hoops, green slime, and 1000 gumballs?? We have no idea. But Todd Davis would have created a feature-length stop-motion film with just those ingredients before any of us could even say “yellow Fjällräven jetpack.” A prop master and pure magician, Todd Davis is a creative genius and true legend. Capable of anything from solid backdrops to 60 ft balloon animals, we have felt lucky over the years bear witness to a number of different professional and personal projects that constantly entertain and inspire - the latest being his quarantine series “This is a Hug,” which has brightened our feeds and brought much-needed laughter every day. But it’s not just ribbons & rainbows with this guy - he also loves dark & obscure movies and has a quick-witted intellect that makes him the best conversationalist & energy to have around on set. One of the greatest problem solvers & tinkerers we know, he always brings together a killer team - all of which are Todd-trained wizards in the making. We love you Todd, thank you for all the hard work, support, love, and laughs over the years!!

Kristina Van Dyk - where do we even begin?? This dinosaur-loving, unicorn of a girl is pure light, joy, and inspiration in human form.  As a wardrobe stylist, her fearless ability to take on any project, no matter the amount of talent, looks, or lack of space is constantly impressive.  Usually sporting the most stylish jumpsuit-hat combo or another adorable onset look, Kristina’s smile, kindness, and instant connection radiates all day to everyone in the crew.  Her ability to see the beauty and fun in life is contagious - she treats everyone as an equal and will lend an ear or hand to anyone who needs it. 

Kristina is also an insanely talented artist, creating captivating and multi-dimensional pieces we know we’ll soon see in NYC galleries.   She seems to have found the perfect balance between styling, painting, wisdom, and bravery.  We are continually inspired by Kristina and feel beyond lucky to have her in the photo family.  It’s clear that this is only the beginning of Kristina’s creative journey & we can’t wait to see what she shares with the world next.  We love you KVD! 

There’s really no one quite like Kevin Vu.  Fueled mostly by Casamigos blanco, pho, and fried chicken, this legend has been in the business long enough to earn his post-lunch naps. One of the most adventure-spirited people we know, when Kev’s not on set he’s in the mountains cooking gourmet camp food over a fire, or riding his midlife-crisis hog off into a well-photographed sunset. You’ll otherwise find Kevin working hard on a tropical beach, shirtless, taking photos of bikini-clad Sports Illustrated models & making the rest of us wonder what we’re doing wrong with our lives.  With his insanely contagious giggle that will make you laugh even if you missed the joke, the dynamic that Kevin adds to any photo team makes them one of the funnest groups ever to work with – constant laughter, pranks and jokes, drinking, dancing… oh and sometimes they help take photos and stuff. We miss you and your energy and positivity so much, Kev - can’t wait to be back on set with you!

It’s not just the kids and babies who are smiling ear-to-ear when Jen Stapinski is on set! It’s this Legend’s job to keep the little ones in front of the camera happy, but it’s also what she does behind the scenes that gives her this week’s title. A walking, talking beam of light, Jen’s patience and love for her job is constantly inspiring. And she is insanely good at it - Jen has a way, not just with children but with all humans, to make them feel special and heard and loved, and she can make just about anyone laugh. Sometimes it’s hard to tell who she’s entertaining more — the kid in front of the camera, or the entire crew behind it. She is one of the strongest women we know, and an amazing friend - and for so many more reasons she deserves this title. We love you Jen - thank you for being you!!!