From Lava Tubes to Global Campaigns: Mysto Productions Wraps Two Major National Geographic Projects in Hawaiʻi
- Mysto Productions
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
It’s been a little while since we last published a blog post here at Mysto Productions — not because we haven’t been busy, but because we’ve been deep in production. Recently, we wrapped two incredible projects with National Geographic, and it felt like the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and share just how proud we are of the work, the people, and the stories we were able to bring to life.
National Geographic has long been one of our favorite clients to collaborate with. Their commitment to authenticity, education, and cinematic storytelling aligns deeply with who we are as a Hawaii video production company, and we truly hope these projects are just the beginning of many more to come.
HOʻOMAU: Joey’s Journey — A Deeply Human Story Told in Hawaiʻi
The first project, HOʻOMAU: Joey’s Journey, was a National Geographic Health piece filmed on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. Mysto Productions served as the local production company, with our co-owner Bailey Durham leading the project as local producer.
This was a story rooted in vulnerability, growth, and connection to place. Joey had no prior on-camera experience, yet from day one, he was open, genuine, and an absolute pleasure to work with. Watching him grow more comfortable as the shoot progressed was one of the most rewarding parts of the project.
Watch the full video here:
Our team provided full Hawaii video production support, including:
Local crew and production management
Production gear and logistics
Location sourcing across the Big Island
Underwater cinematography with Corey, our underwater operator
Production management led by Bradina Anae
On-site production and support from co-owner Mike Mullenhoff
Visually, this project took us everywhere — nighttime manta ray dives, sea turtles, volcanoes, lava tubes, Kona coffee farms, and some of the most breathtaking locations Hawaiʻi has to offer. This was true Hawaii cinematic video storytelling at its core, and a proud moment for our entire team.
Featured on KHON2 Living808
In addition to producing the documentary, our very own producer Bailey Durham was invited to appear on KHON2 News’ “Living808” segment, where she discussed the making of HOʻOMAU: Joey’s Journey and her work on the project.
Being featured on a respected local platform like Living808 was a special moment — not just for Bailey, but for Mysto Productions. It was an opportunity to highlight the importance of locally rooted storytelling and showcase how Hawaii media production can operate at a national and global level while staying grounded in authenticity.
We’re incredibly proud of Bailey for representing Mysto Productions and sharing insight into the work that goes into producing meaningful documentary stories here in Hawaiʻi.
SEA BEYOND — A Global Campaign with Prada & National Geographic
The second project couldn’t have been more different in scope — yet equally meaningful.
In partnership with Anima Films, a UK-based production company, Mysto Productions was brought on as the local Hawaii video production company for National Geographic x Prada’s “Sea Beyond” campaign.
Once again, Bailey Durham served as local producer, orchestrating a massive production footprint, while Mike Mullenhoff stepped in as Director of Photography for the social media content.
This shoot was hosted by Letitia Wright, internationally known for her role in Marvel’s Black Panther. Despite her global recognition, Letitia was grounded, collaborative, and fantastic to work with — a reminder that professionalism comes in many forms.
For this project, Mysto Productions provided:
Approximately 15 local crew members
Locations and permits
Full production gear and camera packages
Vehicles, boats, and marine logistics
Scuba and water-based production support
Talent trailers, HMU teams, and hair stylists
Sound recording, camera assistants, grip gear
On-the-ground production support from our PA's
End-to-end production coordination
It was one of the largest productions we’ve taken on this year, and a powerful example of how a locally rooted Hawaii production company can execute work at a truly global level.
Two Projects, Two Worlds — One Exceptional Crew
What made these two projects so special was the contrast.
On one hand, Joey — someone completely new to being on camera — brought honesty and heart. On the other hand, Letitia Wright — an internationally recognized actor — brought experience and presence shaped by years of working on major film productions.
Different backgrounds. Different energy. Yet both experiences were equally inspiring.
Beyond the work itself, both projects led to something just as meaningful — lasting friendships. Spending long days in the field, traveling together, solving problems, and sharing the highs and challenges of production creates a bond that goes well beyond the shoot. We’re grateful for the relationships built with clients, talent, and crew alike, and those connections are a big part of why we love what we do.
These projects perfectly illustrate what we believe at Mysto Productions: great stories don’t come from status — they come from trust, collaboration, and care.
Going Above & Beyond — Every Time
A huge part of the success of both projects comes down to Bailey Durham’s producing expertise. Her ability to anticipate challenges, manage logistics, support talent, and keep productions moving smoothly across multiple islands and scales is a massive asset to Mysto Productions. These projects are a direct reflection of her leadership and dedication.
We’re also incredibly proud of our local crew — proof that Hawaiʻi is home to world-class professionals capable of tackling productions of any size or complexity. From intimate documentary storytelling to global brand campaigns, these projects show that we consistently go above and beyond.
Looking Ahead
These two National Geographic projects are a reminder of why we do what we do — and why we’re proud to be a Hawaii video production company rooted in local knowledge, cinematic excellence, and genuine collaboration.
We’re grateful. We’re proud. And we’re excited for what’s next.
If these projects show anything, it’s that Mysto Productions is ready for whatever scale, story, or challenge comes next.
Comments