Stept Adds Michael Parenteau and Leigh Powis to Commercial Roster

Stept, a creatively integrated production company with offices in Los Angeles and Jackson Hole, is pleased to announce the addition of Michael Parenteau and Leigh Powis to its director roster for exclusive commercial representation in the US.

Michael Parenteau is a director, producer, director of photography and editor of films, commercials, and music videos. His films include Free Diving With Perrin James, Ride Of the Dead, and The Search For Freedom. The Search for Freedom won numerous awards including Newport Beach Film Festival’s Outstanding Achievement Award, Maui Film Festival’s Audience Award, and the London Surf Film Festival’s Best Cinematography award. Parenteau’s creative innovations span far beyond the screen and include immersive storytelling, aerial, and underwater filming. Clients include NBA, Ford, Mercedes, The North Face, and Audi.

Raised in the UK and now living in Whistler BC, Leigh Powis has become a fixture in the Vancouver film community. With experience as a director, editor, colourist and sound designer, Powis becomes fully immersed in the post-production process of his projects. His early works followed professional athletes through the mountains of British Columbia, but he quickly found his true calling as he transitioned into artful narrative films and abstract commercials. Powis’ passion for disruptive storytelling and his experience directing scripted films has elevated his commercial work and branded content. Recent projects include “Free Bird” for The North Face as well as Oakley 'Optical' featuring Daniel Norris. 

“It’s been exciting to continue building a roster of young progressive directors. We have seen such a big shift in the marketplace over the past five years, and we are embracing the next generation of filmmakers who are telling stories in new ways,” says Stept co-founder Nick Martini. 

Originally producers of alpine films, Stept quickly found success in the branded documentary space, directing and finishing short films for top outdoor and athletic clients including The North Face, Under Armour, and Oakley. Stept’s work for these clients also solidified the studio’s reputation in the commercial world, where their work for brands and agencies alike includes broadcast commercials, short films, and digital and branded content. Their work has garnered awards at Tribeca and BANFF as well as recent honors including Vimeo Staff Picks for WC Jameson, The Litas, and Adventure Not War.