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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

A 22-minute documentary about a volunteer shower program at First Unitarian Church in Portland — and the extraordinary neighbors who show up every week to serve unhoused community members with dignity.

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50th - Feature Documentary

Oregon ranks dead last in the nation for treatment bed access. Common Lens Films is documenting why — and who is fighting to change 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.

STORIES

From the Field

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.

IN PRE-PRODUCTION: 50th 

"Oregon is dead last in the nation for addiction treatment access. We aim to find out why".

Our founder sets the stage for 50th, an investigation into Oregon's treatment bed crisis and how it's impacting our Oregon communities. 

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Kelly Clendenon | May 2026

NEWS

A Sit-Down Interview with Portland's Acclaimed Street Roots
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An inside into...

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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Stay in the Loop!

Get production updates on 50th, screening announcements, and stories from the field, directly to your inbox!

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