Edward McGinty developed an early interest in photography and film from his father, a pioneer in cable TV. He later took his camera on the road during his tenure with the Lollapalooza Music Festival, and became a trigger-man for music legends such as The Beastie Boys, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Distillers. Taking a break from the tour, he attended the American Conservatory Theatre to train as an actor and director, and was later accepted to Columbia University where he received an M.F.A. in Film. His thesis, "Morning Fall," was a finalist for the Student Academy Awards and winner of the Jury Prize for Best Short Film at the Malibu International Film Festival. His thesis, "Morning Fall," was a finalist in the Delta Fly-In Films Competition as well for the Student Academy Awards and winner of the Jury Prize for Best Short Film at the Malibu International Film Festival.