Kyle Xay

Graduated to uncz status 🥲 #fourthfloor 🎉

At Toneset, everything is built around giving people the freedom to create without overthinking the environment. But that only works when what’s in the space is designed with intention and quality. That’s exactly what we look for in the brands and pieces we bring into the studio. Working with @cozmosofa on this was a an easy fit because their pieces naturally set the tone. Studio: @tonesetstudios Directed: @cs_visuals Creative Direction: @cs_visuals & @dre_ninetyone Brand Strategy Lead: @dre_ninetyone DOP & Lighting: @kylexay Edit: @cs_visuals Music: @znakuxx BTS Photography: @treysm1 BTS Film: @aj.vlf

Behind the scenes - Cozmo Work for @tonesetstudios

Since getting the studio I’ve always had the idea that Toneset shouldn’t just be a space people rent. I’ve wanted it to also be a place where we create campaigns, films, photos and editorials directly for brands. One category I’ve been especially interested in working with is furniture brands. As a set design studio, strong furniture pieces naturally become part of the environment creatives build their scenes around. Last summer I went on a bit of a run reaching out to brands. From June through to the end of summer we were sending out around one to three emails a day. I’d find the brands and my intern at the time, @zaynspringer , would put together tailored decks for each one. Last weekend we finally got the opportunity to shoot. The funny thing is the week leading up to it felt like pure friction. I came down with a cold, my head was banging, and at the same time the studio had multiple full day bookings I could’ve taken instead. But without the support of my guys @kylexay and @dre_ninetyone I would have folded. They held me accountable and made the project what it is. Shout out to @treysm1 on the BTS photography and @aj.vlf on the BTS video, which will be out soon. Can’t wait to share the full project with you all.

I’ve always been taught to care about the community I’m from.” Filmmaking is about more than just visuals to @kylexay . Filmmaking is a chance for Kyle to tell stories that shape Black Life in Birmingham.  And that’s what this exhibition is about. “The Ends Through the Lens” have now sold out. But Authors of The Estate and The Peoples Archive tickets are still available.  Don’t lack. Link to tickets in Bio PS: If you do have a ticket for the ‘Ends Through The Lens’ event but you know you can’t make it, return your ticket, and give somebody else the chance to watch the night unfold.

My first time visiting @lane7_ 🎳 A really fun spot to catch up with the fellas, for my bro @mrc_superfoods birthday. 🎉🙌🏾 #birmingham #bowling🎳 #birminghamfilmmakers #lumixs5 #cinematography #videography

Couple test frames for an upcoming project. Shout-out @hoodfutures.studio for a great session. And @tonesetstudios for the space. 🎥📸 #filmmaking #lighting #cinematography #lumixs5 #lumixs5ii

Sinners is still my favourite film of 2025, and it's always fun practicing my cinematography.  #filmmaking #cinematography #lumixs5ii #pentax #sinnersmovie #sinners #ryancoogler

Was a nice day to fly! Shoutout @lcjbee A pleasure working with you bro! 🙌🏾🎥#birminghamfilmmakers #videography #dronephotography #lumixs5ⅱ

Nowaday's I love a good plan of action, but sometimes cool shit just happens by acting on an idea. Shoutout @cs_visuals 🤝🏾🎥 #birminghamfilmmakers #contentcreation #birminghamstudio #lumixs5ⅱ

It's crazy looking back at old projects. Seeing some of the mistakes, but also recognizing the bravery and commitment to creativity. I love the filmmaker I'm becoming, but also trying to revive some of the fearlessness of the younger me. 🔥🎥 #filmmaker #videoproduction #birminghamvideographer #lumixs5ⅱ #canon550d

Really enjoyed this @dailiesfilm workshop. Was a great opportunity seeing the process of people working at such a high level. I Still have a lot to learn, but workshops like this definitely help with building confidence, and inspiring more creativity. #cinematography #dop #gafferlighting #filmmaking #learning