Thirfty Beaches - Something Worth Keeping
Short Documentary | San Luis Obispo, USA | 2025
A story of instinct, grit, and making something out of nothing. Something Worth Keeping follows Adam Kemp, founder of Thrifty Beaches, as he transforms a $2,000 credit limit, a secondhand truck, and a Goodwill outlet hustle into one of the most beloved vintage stores on California’s Central Coast.
Told through vérité interviews and immersive documentary storytelling, the film captures the scrappy heart of a business built without a blueprint. From flipping furniture to facing public doubt, this is a portrait of someone who bet on their vision, before anyone else could see it.
Project Details
Role:
Director, Editor
Featuring:
Adam Kemp (Founder, Thrifty Beaches)
Maria Trott (Co-Founder + Business Partner)
Deliverables:
Short documentary film, social cutdowns
Tools:
Sony FX6, Sony FX30, DaVinci Resolve
Production Notes:
Filmed over multiple shoot days in San Luis Obispo, the project blends vérité-style interviews with stylized environmental footage to capture the raw energy of Thrifty Beaches.
Shot with a balance of handheld realism and cinematic pacing to preserve authenticity while elevating everyday moments.
