Company Profile

At New Media Systems (NMS), we live by our tagline: “Focused on the Solution.” With every project, every client, and every challenge, we bring a results-driven approach that sets us apart. While our award-winning photography speaks for itself, our true strength lies in solving complex problems with innovative solutions. Time and again, we have delivered where others saw obstacles, thanks to our decades of expertise, industry-leading technology, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Based in Richmond, Virginia, NMS is a premier provider of corporate photography and video production, known for capturing striking visuals from unique perspectives. With over 28 years of experience in Aerial Photography, Aerial Video, Corporate Photography, and UAS Drone Imaging, we lead the industry by setting new standards and utilizing cutting-edge equipment, drones, computers, and aircraft.

Our services extend throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond, with projects spanning Florida, Texas, New York, California, and beyond. We take pride in offering both traditional aerial photography—using our own aircraft—and advanced drone imaging to deliver high-quality results for our clients.

At NMS, we are dedicated to being accessible, responsive, and loyal to those we serve. Our reputation is built on trust, reliability, and an uncompromising standard of excellence.

New Media Systems, Inc. is a certified Department of Minority Business Enterprise / SWAM Vendor (Certification Number: S-5606).

2020 Emmy Winner
Chesapeake Beacons
Aerial Photography

2017 Emmy Winner
The Boy And The Bucket: A Fable
Cinematographer & Aerial Cinematography

RICHARD MACDONALD – Director of Photography / Cineflex Operator

A two-time Emmy Award winner, Richard is a seasoned Director of Photography, Pilot, and President of New Media Systems. With over 28 years of experience specializing in aerial photography and video for commercial real estate and construction, his deep industry knowledge and technical expertise give him a distinct advantage over competitors.

An accomplished pilot with over 3,500 flight hours, Richard is equally at home behind the camera, having earned numerous accolades for his exceptional photography and cinematography.

Richard’s passion for aviation began in childhood, fueled by a fascination with helicopters and airplanes. While in college, he discovered an interest in still photography, which led him to a job at a studio specializing in aerial photography. Starting in customer service, he quickly advanced to Senior Photographer within four years—mastering aerial and site location techniques, as well as the WESCAM video system. His former supervisor once remarked, “It took me 18 years to learn aerial photography, but only four years to teach it to you.”

In 1999, Richard left the studio to expand his expertise, studying website design, computer networking, and database management at Professional Resource Management. As he neared graduation, he was recruited by Whit Baldwin of HeloAir to serve as the company’s exclusive photographer and WESCAM operator. Seizing the opportunity, Richard launched his own aerial photography and creative design firm, with Baldwin mentoring him in business and aviation.

By 2011, Richard had partnered with Aerial FilmWorks in Charlotte, NC, becoming one of the region’s few Cineflex Operators and Technicians. Under the mentorship of renowned cinematographer Ron Chapple, whose work includes projects for Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and major sporting events, Richard refined his aerial videography and Cineflex operation skills.

Through collaborations with HeloAir and other industry leaders, Richard has worked on high-profile aerial photography and video projects worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier aerial cinematographer and pilot.

JENN MALLORY – Creative Multimedia Specialist

Jenn Arrasmith graduated from Virginia Tech with a B.A, Communications and focused her studies on visual communications and marketing. Guided by her passion for visual arts and technology, Jenn began her professional career as a graphic designer. She has experience in developing creative marketing and advertising sales for radio, print and digital media platforms.

Enjoying both the artistic and technical aspects of digital photography Jenn began cultivating her photographic skills in 2007 . She has photographed a variety of portraits, head shots and events; including lifestyle, concerts and sports. Over the years she has had the opportunity to learn and experiment with many types of photography on her journey to becoming an experienced photographer.

Jenn was very excited to join the team at New Media Systems in October 2011 knowing she would be able to put her multimedia skills to good use while continuing to grow as a professional photographer and designer.

NICK DALE – Videographer / Photographer / Video Editor

Nick Dale graduated from James Madison University with a B.S. in Media Arts & Design with a minor in Film Studies.  Since the day that he picked up a camera with a friend simply to make short films for YouTube, Nick has been hooked on cinematography and editing.  Once he found out that he could get a job creating/editing video, he geared his studies toward such endeavors. He has filmed a range of projects such as weddings, music videos, short films, all the way to commercial real estate.

Nick had the unique opportunity to shadow Richard on a shoot in 2010, and began to see what a job in the media field is like.  Over the years he continued to work on his skills, taking every opportunity to learn that he could. While in college, Nick was granted the opportunity to be an intern at New Media Systems.  During this time he absorbed skills that aren’t learned in a classroom, making his decision to work for the company an easy one. Nick finds something new to learn each and every day working at New Media Systems.