Meet Our Team

Rick Yarmy

Partner / Founder

With more than 40 years in video production, Rick Yarmy is the creative force and founder behind Dark Spark Media. Over the decades, he’s built a reputation for delivering high-quality content across broadcast, digital, and live event formats. His wide-ranging portfolio includes work for brands like Kia, Ford, GM, Stellantis, Amazon, and the University of Michigan. Whether writing, directing, or producing, Rick blends insight with experience—turning ambitious ideas into powerful visual stories that connect and inspire.

Lisa Smiatacz

Partner / President / Producer

Lisa Smiatacz brings energy, efficiency, and empathy to every project she manages. With over 25 years in production and post, including two decades as a producer and sales executive, she thrives in fast-paced environments where collaboration is key. A Detroit native and working mom of three, Lisa has a knack for balancing high-stakes deadlines with heart. Whether she’s traveling for a shoot or leading a team from the ground up, she makes sure the process feels as good as the finished product—because, for her, people always come first.

Michael Yarmy

Partner / Senior Executive Producer

With more than 45 years experience in the production business, Mike has produced videos for marketing, commercials, documentaries, events, exhibits, and training programs. His work had taken him to locations in almost every state as well as many countries around the world.

Mike has also built a strong portfolio of still photography work.

Kevin Derda

Partner / Director of Photography

Kevin Derda sees stories in every frame. With almost two decades of experience as a Director of Photography, he combines technical precision with a strong artistic vision to craft visuals that resonate. Whether on a tight schedule or a big creative canvas, Kevin thrives on pushing boundaries and bringing bold ideas to life. His commitment to visual excellence and collaborative energy make him a go-to creative partner for clients and team members alike.

Collin Porteus

Partner / Director / Executive Producer

Collin Porteus brings stories to life through a camera lens—and he’s been doing it since childhood. After earning a degree in Film Production and Theory from Michigan State University, he launched into the world of production with hands-on roles across short films, live events, and commercial shoots. Today, with almost two decades of experience, Collin leads creative and logistical efforts at Dark Spark Media. As both Director and Executive Producer, he seamlessly blends vision and execution, guiding projects from concept to completion—on time, on budget, and with heart.

Philip Breisch

Partner / Editor

Philip Breisch is a seasoned editor known for his sharp eye, technical skill, and cool-under-pressure approach. With over two decades of experience, he’s worked on everything from quick-turnaround videos and live event content to complex multi-screen installations and wide-format LED displays. A master of Adobe Creative Cloud and DaVinci Resolve, Philip stays on the cutting edge of post-production. He lives in Royal Oak, Michigan, with his wife and daughter, where he balances editing with gardening, music, and raising a flock of backyard chickens.

Gordy Baker

Partner / Editor

For over 35 years, Gordy Baker has been a trusted creative partner at Dark Spark Media. His editing expertise spans everything from national ad campaigns and automotive events to social content and heartfelt human-interest stories. Known for his thoughtful storytelling and rock-solid reliability, Gordy consistently delivers work that meets client goals—and often exceeds them. His experience, dedication, and collaborative spirit make him a cornerstone of the team and a quiet force behind some of our most impactful projects.