Spencer Bakalar is a documentary editor and current Karen Schmeer Film Editing Fellow.

Most recently, she edited Naomi Osaka: The Second Set (2025, Tubi). Other recent work includes On the Rise: Juju Watkins (2024, Peacock), DREAM BIG: The Michelle Wie Story (2024, Peacock), The World According to Allee Willis (2024, Magnolia Pictures) and TOP CLASS: The Life and Times of the Sierra Canyon Trailblazers (2024, Amazon).

Her love for storytelling began in North Carolina in the ‘90s, reading with her twin sister on the floor between their beds. That enthusiasm only grew as she directed, filmed and edited short docs as a staff journalist at the Los Angeles Times and TIME Magazine. Her work has been recognized by SXSW, Tribeca Film Festival, IDA, the News and Documentary Emmys, and the Webby Awards.

Spencer graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she studied photojournalism and history. She is based in Los Angeles and is an avid hiker, a twin and a violinist!

 

Recognition: 

2024

  • Karen Schmeer Film Editing Fellow (2024-2025)

  • SXSW Film Festival - The World According to Allee Willis

2022

  • Tribeca Film Festival - The Rule of Sedona Prince (ESPN 50/Fifty)

2021

  • IDA Screening Series (TIME Studios Shorts) - Notice of Eviction

  • Medal Finalist, Video of the Year, SPD - Unknown

2019

2018