I am a creative illustrator and filmmaker based in Lutz, Florida, recently graduating with a BFA in Creative Writing and a film minor. I enjoy visual storytelling across picture books and short films, and I’m comfortable working in fast-paced environments both on a team and independently. I love shaping characters, color, and composition to bring stories to life. Beyond my own projects, I collaborate with authors and production teams to realize visions, from publishing picture books like Arlo Helps A Friend to directing short films with an 11-person crew. I’m proficient in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, and I’m always excited to learn new techniques to elevate storytelling.…

Emily Mains Grace

PRO

I am a creative illustrator and filmmaker based in Lutz, Florida, recently graduating with a BFA in Creative Writing and a film minor. I enjoy visual storytelling across picture books and short films, and I’m comfortable working in fast-paced environments both on a team and independently. I love shaping characters, color, and composition to bring stories to life. Beyond my own projects, I collaborate with authors and production teams to realize visions, from publishing picture books like Arlo Helps A Friend to directing short films with an 11-person crew. I’m proficient in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, and I’m always excited to learn new techniques to elevate storytelling.…

Available to hire

I am a creative illustrator and filmmaker based in Lutz, Florida, recently graduating with a BFA in Creative Writing and a film minor. I enjoy visual storytelling across picture books and short films, and I’m comfortable working in fast-paced environments both on a team and independently. I love shaping characters, color, and composition to bring stories to life.

Beyond my own projects, I collaborate with authors and production teams to realize visions, from publishing picture books like Arlo Helps A Friend to directing short films with an 11-person crew. I’m proficient in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, and I’m always excited to learn new techniques to elevate storytelling.

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Work Experience

Children's Book Illustrator at Self-Employed
January 1, 2023 - Present
Wrote, illustrated, and published my own picture book, Arlo Helps A Friend, for foster children. Collaborated with an author to illustrate her picture book, maintaining clear communication and ensuring the author’s vision was accurately conveyed. Designed engaging characters using shape language and color theory to appeal to children.
Short Film Director at Self-Employed
September 1, 2023 - Present
Wrote and directed a short film with a crew of 11 filmmakers to produce a quality project. Coordinated schedules across departments for efficient workflows, and fostered a positive on-set environment through open communication. Readied scenes through actor rehearsals to refine performances prior to filming.
Social Media Graphics Designer at Southeastern University, Lakeland, FL
August 1, 2024 - April 1, 2025
Designed posts for the SEU film program’s social media account, created event flyers, and volunteered on additional projects requiring design support. Collaborated with film leadership to ensure high-quality final graphics, and delivered finalized assets quickly while balancing other responsibilities.
Testing Center Worker at Southeastern University, Lakeland, FL
August 1, 2024 - April 1, 2025
Monitored students taking exams to ensure honest testing practices and promptly submitted completed exams to professors. Organized the testing center for easy test retrieval and scheduled exams with students and professors to accommodate needed accommodations.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Creative Writing, Minor in Film at Southeastern University
January 11, 2030 - April 1, 2025

Qualifications

Photoshop Certified
January 11, 2030 - December 8, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services
    paper Script Supervisor

    I have been on many film sets as a script supervisor, ensuring all the shots needed are filmed, there are no continuity issues between different takes, and properly filling out the needed paperwork to assist the film editors.

    paper Graphic Designer

    I created designs for posts and pamphlets for Southeastern University’s film program, working in a team to ensure everything was made well.

    paper Picture Book Writer

    I wrote, illustrated, and published my own picture book, “Arlo Helps A Friend”, which was made for the foster community. This book helps explain foster care to children in a hopeful manner.

    paper Character Designer

    I have a few years worth of character designing for short films, picture books, and more. I use shape language and color theory to create well-designed characters.

    paper Short Film Director

    I wrote and directed my own thriller short film with a small crew of film students.

    paper Illustrator for "Harriet the Hedgehog Goes to Church"

    I worked with an author to design the characters and setting for her picture book, then illustrated the book. I ensured great layout and coloring, and I ensured that the author had everything she needed to publish her book.