The Story Behind the Stories
Founded in 2005 by Jared Kay — filmmaker, FAA-certified drone pilot, and lifelong advocate for Western North Carolina.
Jared Kay started Amplified Media with just his camera and a commitment to authentic storytelling, growing the studio organically over two decades through deep community investment and consistently national-level production work.
With a Broadcast Production Technology degree from Isothermal College and FAA commercial drone certification, Jared blends technical precision with creative vision. His personal passions — cycling, trail running, and exploring the WNC mountains with his wife Sonia and son River — directly inform the stories he brings to life.
The Amplified Media studio is located in Asheville's River Arts District — a 3,000 sq ft LEED-certified space at 372 Depot Street, in the Glen Rock Building.
The Team
Small Team. Big Vision.
Jared Kay
DP / Director of Photography & CEO
Jared Kay is an Asheville-based Director of Photography and commercial filmmaker specializing in narrative storytelling, branded content, and corporate video production. As the founder of Amplified Media, he has built a reputation for blending technical precision with creative vision, delivering cinematic visuals for clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to local nonprofits and tourism organizations across Western North Carolina and beyond. With over two decades of experience and FAA Part 107 certification for commercial drone operations, Jared approaches each project with a focus on human-centered storytelling and measurable impact.
Dani Pierce
Production Manager
Dani is a versatile producer and production manager at Amplified Media, known for wearing many hats both on set and behind the scenes. She brings a unique blend of organizational expertise, creative insight, and calm problem-solving to every project — ensuring productions run smoothly from first concept to final delivery. Her detail-oriented approach and collaborative spirit allow Amplified Media projects to thrive under her guidance.
Emily Freck
Video Editor
Emily discovered her passion for visual storytelling while studying Mass Communication – Photography at university. At Amplified Media, she applies her keen eye for detail and storytelling as an in-house video editor, ensuring each project flows seamlessly and resonates with audiences. She thrives on the unique journey every edit takes — balancing technical skill with creative intuition to transform raw footage into compelling, cinematic narratives.
Zach Wilson
Production Assistant / Runner
Zach brings a can-do attitude and positive energy to every production. He is highly reliable, detail-oriented, and always eager to jump in wherever support is needed. Known for his upbeat presence on-set and strong work ethic, Zach consistently shows up prepared, engaged, and committed to helping the team deliver its best work.
Our Mission
We exist to elevate the brands and businesses of Asheville and Western North Carolina through inspirational videography, photography, and storytelling.
We believe this region's entrepreneurial culture, creative energy, and community spirit deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated at the highest level. Every project is rooted in collaboration — taking the time to truly know our clients and their vision so the final product is not only strategic and impactful, but also an authentic representation of their brand.
Awards & Recognition
Asheville's 40 Under 40 (2013) — recognized for business success and community leadership
ACI Airport Marketing & Communications Award — 2nd Place, Television Advertising (Asheville Regional Airport)
American Graphic Design Awards — featured alongside Coca-Cola, Nike, HBO, and NASA
EDC Silver Excellence Award — "Asheville Creates" video (IEDC)
MarCom Award — Brand Journalism category (Explore Asheville "Science Behind Fall Color")
Photography featured in the GD Design Annual (2012)
Work exhibited at the Asheville Center for Craft
Beyond the Lens
Rooted in These Mountains
When not behind the camera, Jared is exploring the same WNC landscapes he films — cycling mountain roads, running trails, and discovering new places with his wife Sonia and son River.
This personal connection to the region isn't incidental — it's the foundation of every story Amplified Media tells.
Let's Tell Your Story
Ready to create something remarkable? Let's start with a conversation.