Rydell Tomas Jr. (b. 1996) is an Atlanta-based cinematographer who works in narrative and documentary film. With more than eight years of experience, he has developed a visual style rooted in authenticity, discipline, and strong storytelling. His journey began with documentary photography, where he trained under photographer Greg Miller (Unto Dust, County Fair, We the People). That early training shaped his approach to light, composition, and capturing real human moments.
Through his production company, Monde De Mishka Studios, Rydell has shot documentaries, narrative shorts, and commercial campaigns. His work is known for combining striking visuals with honest emotion, shaped by both local and international experiences.
In 2024, Rydell was selected by the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) to study with Academy Award winning cinematographer Robert Elswit, ASC (There Will Be Blood, Nightcrawler, Mission Impossible – Rogue Nation) in Los Angeles. That same year, he was awarded Civilian Videographer of the Year by the South Atlantic Division for his work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
In 2025, Rydell trained at the Georgia Film Academy, where he studied under television director J. Miller Tobin (Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl, Vampire Diaries). This training helped him better understand how cinematographers and directors work together to bring a vision to life.
Rydell believes cinematography is more than making beautiful images. For him, it is about serving the story, supporting the director’s vision, and creating visuals that move audiences.