First Light Studios

First Light Studios is a boutique film and television production company based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Founded in 2014 and formerly known as Mission7 Media, it creates non-fiction programming that connects exploration, education and environmental storytelling. The studio operates as the production arm of First Light Group, developing documentary features, broadcast series and educational video projects.

Its work spans archaeology, history, science, natural history and wildlife conservation. Host-led expeditions and location-based filmmaking are central to its approach, alongside short-form and long-form storytelling designed for different audiences. The company serves broadcast networks, streaming platforms, educational institutions, philanthropic foundations, museums and conservation organizations.

Documentary and educational production

The studio’s capabilities cover television development, research, scriptwriting, expedition cinematography, field production coordination and post-production editing. Its educational work also includes video design and distribution for K–12 STEM learning, bringing documentary production into classroom settings through standards-aligned programming.

Projects include Explorer At Large, a multimedia documentary and educational initiative exploring relationships between people and the natural world, indigenous stewardship and scientific innovation. Its space-related educational productions include Project Ianos and Students To Launch, which combine video storytelling with classroom learning activities.

The wildlife conservation feature Inkura follows the international relocation of five critically endangered eastern black rhinoceroses across 4,000 miles. The 90-minute documentary reflects the studio’s broader interest in environmental advocacy and stories that connect field exploration with conservation.

Company development

The business began under the Mission7 Media name, with early production operations anchored in New York. It subsequently rebranded as First Light Studios and moved its headquarters to Santa Fe. This development placed its filmmaking within a broader group model combining commercial media production with educational and philanthropic activity.

The studio collaborates with affiliated education, expedition and charitable organizations on projects that extend beyond conventional television production. Across its documentary and classroom work, it emphasizes purposeful storytelling grounded in cultural heritage, exploration and environmental awareness.