Raymond G. Mongelli III, a visionary artist, has honed his craft to become a skilled cinematographer, adept at crafting compelling narratives, shaping captivating stories, and evoking distinct atmospheres through his mastery of the camera's lens. This creative force has an insatiable passion for the world of entertainment and illusion, which was first ignited by the legendary magicians of the past, including the iconic Harry Houdini, the renowned Harry Blackstone, the mesmerizing David Copperfield, and the ingenious duo of Penn & Teller.
Ray's formative years were characterized by a truly remarkable and distinctive educational experience at the illustrious Pittsburgh School for the Creative and Performing Arts, a revered institution that granted him the exceptional opportunity to complete the Media Arts Program. This comprehensive curriculum, replete with a diverse range of artistic disciplines, enabled Ray to acquire a broad and multifaceted skill set, encompassing the mastery of production techniques utilizing both analog and early digital equipment for film, video, audio, and photography, as well as traditional fine arts studies.
Ray's journey into the world of storytelling was deeply influenced by his early years and educational background, which ultimately led him to uncover a profound passion for the captivating art of filmmaking.
Ray, a remarkably accomplished and highly respected individual in the field of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) piloting, has dedicated a significant portion of his career to the meticulous and artistic process of creating, designing, and capturing awe-inspiring and captivating visual content through his innovative and intricate automated motion control and remote-controlled aerial devices.
The ingenious machines, a testament to the unparalleled ingenuity and meticulous engineering prowess of Ray, have not only defied the constraints of gravity by soaring majestically into the skies, but have also made a significant impact on the world of independent film, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
Ray's machines, a masterclass in innovative design and precision craftsmanship, have had the privilege of gracing the sets of numerous independent film productions, bringing a unique and captivating visual aesthetic to the silver screen.
Ray's remarkable career has traversed numerous spheres, encompassing a broad spectrum of experiences that have seen him operate both behind the scenes and center stage at a diverse array of distinguished venues. Notable among these has been the renowned Star Lake Amphitheater, the prestigious The Benedum Center, and the vibrant City of Pittsburgh, where he has undoubtedly left an indelible mark. Moreover, Ray has had the privilege of being involved in the Salute to Liberty Celebration, a prestigious event that pays tribute to the rich history and heritage of the region. Additionally, he has collaborated with the esteemed Don Brockett Productions, a company celebrated for its innovative and groundbreaking work in the entertainment industry, thereby further solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished individual.
Ray's most recent professional pursuits have been distinguished by an extraordinary level of industriousness and productivity, with a marked increase in the quality and quantity of his work. In recognition of his remarkable achievements, he was bestowed the esteemed honor of a nomination for Best Director at the prestigious HorrorHound 2015, a testament to his exceptional filmmaking skills.
This notable achievement is a direct result of his collaborative effort with the talented Chris Niespodzianski on the feature film "The Other Side", a project that showcases his ability to work effectively with others to produce outstanding results. This recognition serves as a powerful testament to his growing reputation as a skilled and accomplished filmmaker, solidifying his position within the industry.
