Kelton Jones is a multifaceted artist who has made a profound and lasting impact on the film industry, showcasing his impressive range as an accomplished actor, director, producer, screenwriter, and cinematographer. His academic foundation is deeply rooted in the comprehensive study of film and theatre, which he thoroughly pursued at Stephen F. Austin State University, ultimately earning a prestigious Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Art.
Kelton's professional journey commenced with a stint in the lighting and camera departments on numerous feature films and television shows in Dallas and Houston, which laid the foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry.
In the 1990s, Kelton took a courageous leap of faith, making the bold decision to relocate to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where he steadily worked his way up the ranks to become a skilled and accomplished cinematographer and producer.
His big break as a cinematographer arrived with the visually breathtaking and emotionally charged The Passion Of The Christ, a powerful and thought-provoking biblical epic masterfully directed by the renowned Mel Gibson.
This significant milestone was swiftly followed by his debut as both a producer and cinematographer, as he brought his unique vision to life with the action-packed and humor-infused Hot Guys With Guns, a film that garnered widespread critical acclaim and was honored with the prestigious distinction of being selected as the closing film for the esteemed Outfest.
Kelton's professional journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence, as he has consistently sought to refine his artistic skills and expertise through the direction of numerous short films.
His feature film directorial debut, Dry Blood, was released by Epic Pictures in 2019, marking a significant milestone in his career. The film received widespread critical acclaim and accolades on the festival circuit, with notable awards including Best Feature and Best Director, a testament to Kelton's exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.
Kelton's impressive career extends far beyond his work in feature films, as he has also ventured into the realm of documentary filmmaking, garnering recognition for his outstanding projects in collaboration with esteemed directors Robert Zemeckis and Ice-T, who have both earned prestigious accolades within the industry.
In his pursuit of artistic growth and mastery, Kelton has actively sought out opportunities to hone his skills, engaging in comprehensive studies of directing and acting techniques under the guidance of industry giants Mark Travis, Sean S. Cunningham, and the renowned Miesner Technique instructors Joanne Baron and DW Brown.
Kelton's profound enthusiasm for education transcends his own creative endeavors, as he has concurrently dedicated himself to nurturing the artistic talents of others. In this capacity, he has functioned as a film instructor and acting coach, providing guidance and mentorship to a diverse range of individuals.
Throughout his teaching career, Kelton has had the privilege of instructing at esteemed educational institutions, including Colorado University in Denver, a renowned hub of academic excellence. Additionally, he has also had the opportunity to share his expertise with young aspiring artists at the Young Actors Theatre Camp in Santa Cruz, a summer program designed to foster the creative potential of students.
In his role as a film teacher, Kelton has imparted his extensive knowledge of the craft to students, equipping them with the skills and confidence necessary to excel in the competitive world of filmmaking. Similarly, as an acting coach, he has worked closely with actors, helping them to refine their craft and unlock their full potential.
By sharing his passion for education with others, Kelton is not only contributing to the development of the next generation of filmmakers and actors but also perpetuating a culture of artistic expression and creative innovation.
