Yard Dog has signed director Kelsey Larkin for exclusive representation in the U.S. The agreement is the first with a U.S. production company for Larkin, who, although born in Chicago, resides in Toronto and has previously worked exclusively in Canada. She has recently directed projects for GoodLife Fitness, Inov8, Vega and Bikes on Wheels, among others.
Larkin studied filmmaking at Humber College, Toronto, and spent the early years of her career rising through the production ranks. She got her start as a director helming music videos, before transitioning to commercials. She continues to be represented in Canada by Nimble Content.
Larkin has developed a unique style of storytelling. Her recent spot, “Live for It” for GoodLife Fitness and Toronto agency Doug & Partners, captures the emotional drive of dedicated athletes through close-ups and intense action. The visuals are artfully designed, yet feel real and immediate. “I tend to be more about the images and close-ups shot with short depth of field,” she explained. “I like atmosphere. I like shadows. I like to use natural lighting. I see every frame as a photograph, one that is visually pleasing and can stand on its own. That’s what I aspire to in all my work.”
Larkin said that she is excited to test her storytelling skills in the U.S. and feels that Yard Dog is the ideal platform for her launch, noting that she was drawn to the company’s roster and executive producers Joe Piccirillo and Beth Pearson. Both EPs feel that Larkin’s strong visual style will translate well in the American ad market.
