Welcome to Media Elves
We transform complex stories into compelling visual content that connects with your audience.
A little bit about us…
Your story matters. We're here to make it shine.
Media Elves is a specialized media production company based in Wellington, New Zealand. We're a tight-knit team of creative thinkers with diverse skill sets, offering creative services from concept development to final delivery.
What makes us different: We excel in science communication and research storytelling, transforming complex ideas into engaging visual narratives that inspire and educate.
Our reach: Based in Wellington, we work all around the world… on land and at sea!
Our services
Creative services that bring your story to life
Logistics & Support
Full project management and logistical support for remote shoots, local & international projects, and challenging environments.
Video Production
Complete video solutions from concept to final cut, specializing in research institutions and organizations with complex stories to tell.
Photography
Professional photography that captures the essence of your work, from scientific fieldwork to corporate portraits and events.
Animations
2D and 3D animations that make complex concepts accessible and engaging.
Storytelling
Strategic narrative development that identifies the heart of your message and crafts it into compelling stories that resonate with your audience. We make the complicated compelling!
On-site Training
Empower your team with hands-on training in content creation, storytelling techniques, and media production skills.
How we work
Our process: from concept to compelling content
Discovery & Strategy - We start with a free 30-minute consultation to understand your goals and audience
Concept Development - Our team crafts a tailored approach that aligns with your message and budget
Production Excellence - Using professional equipment and decades of experience, we bring your story to life
Delivery & Support - We provide final deliverables in your preferred formats with ongoing support
Organizations we’ve worked with
Government agencies - Research institutions - Broadcasters - Educational organizations
Meet our elves
Meet the creative minds behind Media Elves
Pascale Otis
Founder & content producer
Science Communication Specialist
With a master's degree in biology and 25+ years of experience, Pascale transforms complex scientific concepts into engaging stories. Named one of Canada's greatest explorers by Canadian Geographic magazine (2020), she brings unmatched expertise in science communication.
Specializes in: Science communication, documentary production, expedition filming.
Dave Allen
Content producer & photographer
Visual Storytelling Expert
With over three decades of experience, Dave creates compelling content that showcases the significance of your work. His extensive portfolio includes collaborations with renowned broadcasters and research institutions.
Specializes in: Story development, video production, still photography.
Dr Rhian Salmon
Communications expert
Engagement & Strategy Specialist
PhD in Atmospheric Chemistry and co-founder of the School of Science in Society at Victoria University of Wellington. Rhian designs engagement initiatives and facilitates workshops that connect science with society.
Specializes in: Engagement strategy, workshop facilitation, research communication.
Learn more about Rhian’s role as retreat facilitator at Waihōanga River Lodge and Retreat
Samuel Maxwell
Animator & visual effects artist
Motion Graphics Specialist
Degrees in Animation, Visual Effects, and Media Design from Victoria University of Wellington. Samuel creates captivating 3D and 2D animations that bring complex concepts to life.
Specializes in: 3D animation, visual effects, graphic design.
Why choose Media Elves?
Expertise you can trust
25+ years of specialized experience in science communication and visual storytelling across some of the world's most challenging environments.
Award-winning team including recognized explorers, PhD researchers, and industry veterans who understand how to make complex stories accessible.
Global reach, local roots - We've filmed in many locations around the world, but we're based right here in Wellington.
End-to-end expertise - From initial concept through final delivery, we handle every aspect of your project with professional equipment and decades of experience.
Proven track record - Trusted by government agencies, research institutions, broadcasters, and educational organizations worldwide.
““They transformed our complex research findings into a compelling story that reached audiences we never thought possible.”
”The team’s ability to work in challenging field conditions while maintaining professional quality is exceptional. They truly understand the unique demands of storytelling.”
”From concept to final delivery exceeded our expectations. Their collaborative approach and attention to detail made the entire process seamless.””