Nate Townsend is a Los Angeles–based director, photographer, writer, and editor known for crafting emotive, human-centered stories with cinematic scope.

He began his career agency-side at DDB after graduating from LMU’s School of Film and Television. At DDB he developed a sharp commercial instinct and a deep understanding of agency dynamics — a foundation that continues to shape his collaborative, story-first approach.

Nate’s work bridges the worlds of narrative and advertising, often spotlighting personal stories and social impact. His work has earned recognition from Cannes Lions, D&AD, The One Show, Clios, Shots, and the AICP Awards. Direction honors include a 2023 D&AD Pencil for his work for March for our Lives.

Beyond directing, Nate is both an accomplished photographer — named a “Face of Leica LA” in 2023 — and screenwriter. He lives in Sherman Oaks with his wife Alana and their basset hound, Henry.

He also answers his emails: natelighttownsend@gmail.com.