We had the good fortune of connecting with Kim Crossman Tom Walsh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kim Crossman, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Kim:

I usually don’t hesitate to take risks in my career. I’m not afraid of failure or taking big swings, and I feel that the more I’ve done it, the easier it becomes. I think I’m more likely to fear mediocrity or stagnation. In many ways, I feel a slight addiction to the chaos and hard work of a lofty goal or project. The challenge, change, and risk excite me.

Tom:

From the moment I first fell out of a tree when I was about six years old in New Zealand, I didn’t focus on how painful hitting every branch on the way down was but on how amazing the view was and the achievement of getting to the top! It was my Mt. Everest. That’s when I discovered that sometimes things might not go as planned in life, but it’s worth it if you achieve what you set out to do. Like in my career as a cameraman—when you go the extra mile and put yourself in risky situations, you often get the shot that others don’t.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Kimberley Crossman and Tom Walsh are a power couple in the world of film and television, blending talents and passions to bring stories to life on both sides of the Pacific. Kimberley, an actress, author, comedian, and marine biologist, first made waves as Sophie McKay on Shortland Street at just 16. Since then, she’s been jet-setting between New Zealand and Los Angeles, working alongside legends like Kevin Connolly, Stephen Fry, and even William Shatner. Recently, she launched Pretty Depressed, a podcast where she gets candid about mental health, with an impressive lineup of guests, from top actors to mental health experts.

Tom Walsh, a cinematographer with a 24-year career, has a knack for capturing stunning visuals that breathe life into award-winning projects. Known for his work on series like The Casketeers, Snack Masters, and Race to Survive, Tom has won two gold awards from the New Zealand Cinematographers Society. Fun fact: his industry journey began with an unforgettable role as the “togs undies guy” in a beloved 2005 commercial.

Together, Kimberley and Tom founded Pretty Tall Productions, a bi-coastal company focused on authentic storytelling. They’re currently filming their first feature-length documentary and developing a show in LA, combining Kimberley’s curiosity and charm with Tom’s cinematic vision to create meaningful, memorable content for audiences worldwide.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Kimberley & Tom’s Santa Monica & Venice Food + Fun Hit List 🌴🍽️
Must-Try Bites in Santa Monica/Venice:

Gjelina – Spectacular vibes and food! Dinner here is a treat, and don’t miss out on the pizza 🍕
Sushi Enya – Fresh sushi for the perfect sushi fix 🍣
Gjusta – Casual but unforgettable; try the sourdough bread from @gjustabakery 🥖
Crudo e’ Nudo – For seafood lovers, this place is a dream @crudo_e_nudo 🐟
Ospi – Delicious Italian fare @ospivenice (also check out Vito for a cozy Italian experience) 🍝
Little Lunch – The coffee spot you won’t want to miss @littlelunchcoffee ☕️
Dudley Market – Fun late-night spot with amazing vibes @dudleymarketvenice 🌙
Other Local Favorites:

HiHo Cheeseburger – For the best burgers, hands down 🍔
Forma on Montana – Homemade pasta heaven 🍝
Good Boy Bob – Laid-back café perfect for any coffee break ☕️
La La Land – Another cute café option to brighten your day ✨
Primo Passo – Great for dinner with a cozy atmosphere 🌆
Puglia – A fun, memorable dinner spot (don’t forget to touch the lamps!) 💡
El Coyote – Go-to for tacos 🌮
Street Tacos on Lincoln – The taco stand outside Whole Foods is seriously good 🌮

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Tom and I are freshly married and would love to shout out each other for the trust we both have in building something together. We’ve previously worked for others, so stepping out on our own and deciding to create something together is both exciting and a bit scary. But we’re up for the challenge and really looking forward to collaborating with some of the amazingly talented people here in LA. There’s an incredible creative energy here, and we love it!

Website: https://app.fanfix.io/@kimcrossman24

Instagram: @kimcrossman @the__tomwalsh @prettytallproductions

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimcrossman24

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimCrossman24/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY-pgNUDJ2TzwA-E7s8PrFQ

Image Credits
Kath Gould @kathgould_makeup
Jonny Scott @jonnyscottphoto
Raul Guerrero @gdphotography_2022

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.