Meet the Team

Meet Jim D.

Co Founder

Jim DanDee is a storyteller first and foremost, and can serve as a director, producer & cinematographer for a myriad of projects, from feature films to commercials, as well as non-fiction (interviews, documentaries & internal projects) and music videos. He has a penchant for in-camera effects, as well as set building and design, because he loves creating real and unbelievable moments in his work. He’s made miniature cities–complete with alien spaceships descending through the clouds–entire apartments, and seamless one takes that will leave you asking “how did they pull that off?” 

Jim received his formal training at Boston University, earning his MFA in Film Production with an emphasis in Directing. After graduating, he began Auspicious Phoenix Productions with some of his fellow students from the program. He went on to shoot several feature films, direct music videos, and taught as a professor for Boston University, Emerson College & Wheaton College for over 5 years in cinematography, 16mm film, video productions and directing.

With over 10 years of experience in video production, Jim is able to take a project from concept to completion for clients and projects of all sizes and types. His focus is to bring out the objectives of the work, and the desires of the client using all the tools available to him as a storyteller and motion picture enthusiast. 

Meet Oleg B.

Co Founder

Oleg Bolotov is an award winning filmmaker and photographer. Born in Kazakhstan, Oleg grew up in Los Angeles and has traveled all over the world to shoot both photo and video projects, digital and on film.

Oleg received his formal training at Boston University and earned a Masters degree in Film Production with a concentration in Cinematography. His thesis film, Dreamers, made it to the finals of Student Academy Awards in 2014. Since graduating, Oleg has continued to shoot/direct short films, commercials, music videos and corporate videos. He developed a love for photography and has become well versed in professional and creative photography. He has shot billboard campaigns for luxury spas in New Mexico (you can see them if you drive on I-25 between Santa Fe and Albuquerque), fashion campaigns for international brands such as Flexi Lexi and Zanni while working with countless individuals to get them portraits, professional headshots, etc.

Currently, Oleg continues to do commercial video work as well as growing his photography business. He owns and manages a photography studio, Auspicious Phoenix Studio, and his production company, Auspicious Phoenix Productions,  and helps run the social media for his  film lab & shop, Lumentation. Oleg continues to challenge himself with creative portraits, short films shot on old school film and creates artwork in his spare time. 

Meet Stefano P.

Partner

Stefano Petrafesa is a highly dedicated filmmaker and an esteemed partner at Auspicious Phoenix Productions. After completing his graduation from Emerson College in 2019, Stefano started his career as an intern with us, and since then, he has progressed to become a partner in 2022. Stefano has been working as a freelance DP, gaffer, director, and cam op, gaining valuable experience and skills in various production facets while working within a multitude of fields including short films, commercials, and corporate branded content.

Stefano's contributions to Auspicious Phoenix Productions as a producer and onset crew member are highly commendable. He ensures that all aspects of production are executed with precision and excellence, maintaining the company's reputation for delivering high-quality projects. His unwavering commitment to excellence has made him a valuable asset to the team.

Stefano's passion for filmmaking and exceptional skills have allowed him to continue to elevate the standards of our company with his dedication and expertise.