In this installment of “Meet Our Production Pros,” we’re featuring the contributions of Jonathan Allen. Jon is one of our hardworking in-house motion graphics editors who ensures we can provide 24/7 service to our political clients during the heat of election season. Jon was recently promoted to Manager.
At FP1, Jon works closely with Senior Director Chris Cordova in managing our shoot footage, b-roll drive and the archives of all our political ads. He pulls best takes from our candidates’ reads to facilitate the post-production process. He builds demo reels for new business pitches, creates b-roll movies for outside groups and super PACs, edits, stringouts for testimonial interviews and helps manage our state-of-the-art production studio at our Clarendon headquarters. Jon is also our point of contact with stock photo, footage and music companies, ensuring that our ad elements are properly licensed and compliant with copyright laws.
“I turn to Jon Allen almost every day with something important to do,” said FP1 Partner Trent Wisecup. “He always responds with a positive attitude and gets the task done quickly. During his time at FP1, Jon has sharpened his editing skills and is now a very valuable part of our creative process and our new business operations. I am happy that Jon received a promotion this summer. It’s well deserved.
“I love working with Jon Allen,” said FP1 Managing Director Nick Gay. “He’s a great well-rounded team player with editing skills that have strengthened our overall production capabilities. It’s great to see Jon getting some recognition for his hard work. He is another shining example of the upward mobility that exists at FP1 for people who are willing to put in the work.”
Read this lightning round of Q&A with Jon Allen.
What’s your alma mater?
I graduated from the Art Institute.
What do you like best about working at FP1?
I enjoy all the various aspects of production from concept to completion. And, of course, our great team and their great work.
Do you have a favorite FP1 spot?
The “Dirty Job” spot for Zach Nunn is by far my favorite. We filmed the ad early on in my tenure here. I was able to take part in helping pull it together through postproduction. Very memorable experience!
What’s your favorite podcast?
I would have to go with Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum. It’s very relaxed and has great discussions with entertainment personalities. The conversations cover a wide range of topics. It’s never dull.
What’s the last book you read?
Wild Bill Donovan: The Spymaster that created the OSS and Modern American Espionage. It’s a fascinating look at the tumultuous life of the founder of the organization that would eventually become the CIA.
What’s your favorite movie?
It’s a tough question, but I’m going to go with Raiders of the Lost Ark. It’s a classic and influential in so many ways, from characterization to shot blocking and just about every other aspect of storytelling.
What’s your favorite thing to do on a Saturday?
My wife and I like to start off at a Farmer’s Market and then explore one of the many great parks or green spaces in and around our nation’s capital.
What’s your go-to restaurant in the DC area?
Apero in Georgetown is kind of a hidden gem and is great for a nicer evening out. For a more casual meal, I’m also a huge fan of Stracci in Del Ray.
If you could have dinner with one historical figure, who’d it be and why?
Going back to my earlier answer, I’d have to choose Steven Spielberg. His Hollywood stories alone could easily fuel the conversation for a great dinner. I’d be fascinated to hear him talk about bringing classics like Jaws and Jurassic Park to the big screen.
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