Thinking Tree Films is an award-winning production company dedicated to creating captivating natural history films. We are passionate about telling stories that celebrate the wild places of our planet and the animals and people who call them home. Using the latest cutting-edge camera technology, we bring the beauty, complexity, and wonder of the natural world to life. Our mission is to inspire a deep love for our incredible planet and a commitment to protect it for generations to come.
Dayton Stone
Producer / Director / Cinematographer
Meet Dayton Stone, a seasoned and highly regarded Producer/Director and Cinematographer with a talent for uncovering peoples true personalities and experiences while directing. As Co-Owner of Thinking Tree, he has directed hundreds of commercial projects but also boasts over a decade of experience capturing animal behaviors and emotionally resonant stories from their handlers of the natural world. Dayton was the Director of Photography for 6 years and 110 episodes of ABC’s 2 time winner and 4 time Emmy Nominated children's wildlife series; The Wildlife Docs. The show provides educational insight into the veterinarian experience working with all types and sizes of wildlife with the Vets at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. As a cinematographer for Nat Geo's Big Cat Games his camera team produced stunning visual demonstrations of Big Cats and their instinctual abilities as well. Expanding his craft beyond nature, Dayton served as the cinematographer in 2024 for the groundbreaking 5 hour long documentary series just released called Biohack Yourself, which explores the science of human potential and longevity thru the stories of 113 alternative medicine providers . Also in 2024 Dayton captured the story of the body building industry from the 80's to present as told thru the vast network of athletes all touched by industry coach and champion George Farah in The Guru. In automotive TV in 2024 Dayton directed Helping Hands Garage a feel good family automotive show on SpeedVisionTV as well, Hemmings Repair2Rev and he Produced Motortrend's annual long form broadcast of the Performance Racing Industry Show. Whether filming Bear and Eagle releases, Hyenas undergoing surgery, or Caiman captures deep in the everglades at night Dayton is experienced in nature cinema. His masterful eye for detail, team management, and his deep understanding of narrative ensure every project is told with unforgettable visual impact and emotional depth.
Sarah Stone
Producer / Editor
Meet Sarah Stone, an accomplished editor and mother, known for her ability to add style and impact to every project she touches. A recipient of the prestigious Panda Award and other accolades, Sarah’s work has earned recognition for its excellence in both storytelling and visual artistry. She has contributed to acclaimed nature programs such as National Geographic: Expedition Grizzly, a cutting edge documentary series featuring wildlife expert, Casey Anderson, and his best friend an 800lb Grizzly Bear; for National Geographic: Expedition Wild, an exciting 11 part documentary series that gets up close and personal with nature's ferocious predators and gentle creatures. for Discovery Channel: Adventure Camp, a 13-part hit series following eight kids through a summer wildlife adventure camp, for Arm & Hammer: OxiClean & Orange Glo, numerous direct-response advertisements; for PBS: Expedition Florida: The Big Bend Coast, a one-hour exploration that takes viewers on a 100-mile sea kayak adventure along the Florida Saltwater Paddling Trail.With a deep understanding of the natural world and an innate sense of style, Sarah brings raw beauty and poignant narratives to life with her editing abilities. Her unique ability to blend breathtaking visuals with meaningful stories continues to inspire, educate, and captivate, solidifying her reputation as a leader in documentary and commercial production. Since 2022, Sarah handles all Post Production needs for Adtalem Global Education Inc. (NYSE: ATGE), a leading healthcare educator and the parent organization of American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, Chamberlain University, Ross University School of Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and Walden University.
Jordan Hicks
Cinematographer / Aerial Cinema
Jordan Hicks is a passionate storyteller and dedicated environmental advocate whose cinematography also spans the skys and seas as a premiere Drone Pilot and underwater videographer. Raised in Tampa, Florida, he developed an early love for fishing and exploring the diverse ecosystems of the Gulf Coast. Since beginning his career in cinematography in 2013, Jordan has worked on a wide range of projects, including reality television, documentaries, docuseries like this Artist Series Project and even feature films. More recently, he has created content for Regent Cruise Lines, traveling the world to craft stories that highlight both the beauty of natural landscapes and the importance of preserving them, such as Visit Alaska as well as to Italy for Broadway on the Seas. One of Jordan’s most memorable and impactful projects took him to the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. Living aboard a boat for two weeks, he documented a fly fishing operation on the Amazon River, capturing footage of rare species and witnessing firsthand the delicate balance of the region’s ecosystems. This experience reinforced his commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices; further illustrated by his program for Sustainable Chesapeake. He is determined to contribute to the protection and sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.
Jordan Hicks Additional Portfolio Items
Will DeHaan
Sound Mixer
Will DeHaan is a Production Sound Mixer from Tampa, Florida, with a passion for documentary filmmaking and a deep foundation in music. His musical background shapes his approach to capturing authentic, immersive sound that brings documentary stories to life, ensuring each scene resonates with emotional depth and realism. As a lifelong surfer and Florida native, Will draws inspiration from outdoor recreation and conservation, values that define his work. Recent projects include Tom Brady’s "Man in the Arena" for ESPN, a 10-day travel documentary through the Dominican Republic with Expedia, and “Misfits", a dog-sledding adventure documentary making its way through outdoor-focused film festivals.
Will Dehaans Kit List