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Documenting Truth.

Inspiring Change.

Common Lens Films is a Portland-based nonprofit documentary production company, rooted in social justice and fiscally sponsored by the Charitable Partnership Fund. Our documentaries are made by filmmakers with lived experience, screened in community spaces, and followed by conversations that matter.

OUR FILMS

Award-winning documentaries & client productions that move people to action. 

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Helpers

Helpers traces one man's journey from heroin addiction to sobriety alongside Portland's own struggle to care for its most vulnerable, told through the founding of the 13 Salmon Shower Project at First Unitarian Church.

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50th -Our Next Film 

Oregon ranks dead last in the nation for treatment bed access despite having one of the worst substance abuse problems. Kelly explores how we got here, and what's being done about it.

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Ground Score Association

Promotional video produced in December 2025 highlighting the tireless work of two Portland nonprofits providing hygiene services and economic opportunity to unhoused community members.

A Quick Update!

We are excited to share that the first Common Lens Films newsletter, Behind the Lens is now available! Sign up to receive updates and stay in the loop with the team!

SERVICES

Your Story, Told Well.

We produce award-winning documentary content for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations across Oregon. From fundraising videos to community impact films, we bring the same storytelling craft to every project.

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Donor Appeal

We know what moves people to give. Our fundraising videos combine compelling storytelling with a clear call to action, giving your organization the emotional hook it needs to turn viewers into donors.

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Versatile Media

From short social content to full-length documentary films, we adapt our approach to fit your audience, your budget, and your mission. One production partner for every format you need.

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Full Pre-to-Post Production

Our team professionally handles everything from concept development and filming to editing and final delivery. You stay focused on your mission while we take care of the rest. 

Lets's work together.

We understand the nonprofit landscape and work efficiently within your budget and timeline. Tell us what you need — we'll figure out the rest.

OUR TEAM

The Crew Behind the Lens

Our core team graduated together from the Master's program in multimedia journalism at the University of Oregon -- bringing investigative rigor, documentary craft, and lived experience to every production. We're proud to have Eliel, a recent Lewis & Clark graduate, on board as our intern.

SUPPORT OUR WORK

Help Us Keep Filming 

Common Lens Films runs on community support. Every dollar goes directly into our work -- equipment, travel, post-production, festival submissions, and the community screenings that bring it all home. 

Make a Donation

Your tax-deductible contribution supports production of 50th and our ongoing community screening program.

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A Sit-Down Interview with Portland's Acclaimed Street Roots
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An inside into the filming of "Helpers" with Kelly Clendenon. The Oregon Alumn opens about his past and how that was translated into the shooting of the film. 

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

Behind the Lens

Behind the Lens is a free monthly newsletter from Common Lens Films.

UPDATE

Announcing the Common Lens Films Substack!
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We are pleased to announce that we recently launched our first newsletter through Substack! Use the button to visit our page and subscribe. 

Stay in the Loop!

Get production updates on 50th, screening announcements, and stories from the field, directly to your inbox! Our first edition newsletter will be published July 1st!

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