How Do You Stay Inspired?
Curious about how top filmmakers keep their creativity alive? In this insightful Q&A, Founder & Creative Directors along with CEOs share their secrets to staying inspired. The first expert emphasizes the importance of embracing new technologies and techniques, while the final insight encourages stepping out of comfort zones. Discover all six invaluable tips from industry leaders in our latest article on keeping your work fresh and innovative.
- Embrace New Technologies and Techniques
- Explore Broader Trends and Movements
- Regroup and Learn Something New
- Blend Photography and Filmmaking
- Derive Ideas from Daily Routine
- Step Out of Comfort Zones
Embrace New Technologies and Techniques
I love to embrace new technologies and techniques to keep my work fresh. Whether it's experimenting with new camera gear, pushing the boundaries of animation software, or diving into the latest AI trends, I'm always looking for ways to evolve my craft. Sometimes, it's just about doing something entirely new. For instance, I've always been purely a live-video filmmaker, but recently I had the chance to write and direct a 3D animation. I've never done it before, but I took on the challenge nonetheless; the result exceeded my expectations and has opened a whole new way of working for me.
You can see the trailer here: https://vimeo.com/917458533
Explore Broader Trends and Movements
Individual films are always a source of inspiration, and I often explore platforms like Vimeo, EyeCandy, and Shots with curiosity. But what really excites me is uncovering broader trends and movements—recurring themes, techniques, or new storytelling approaches from a fresh generation of filmmakers. A perfect example is attending a film academy graduation screening. It's at events like these that you get a real sense of where our craft is headed and how the future of filmmaking is shaping up. The bold ideas and innovative techniques from emerging talent offer a clear glimpse into the future of the industry.
Regroup and Learn Something New
There will be always ups and downs. If you feel you have reached a plateau and nothing exciting is happening in your projects, it's time to regroup and learn something new. This could be in the form of attending specialty film/camera workshops, new tech like VR, or in the area of your interest. This will help you get excited again and ignite the passion that brought you into this industry in the first place. The key isn't about reaching a final destination; we have to keep moving and exploring new things every day.
Blend Photography and Filmmaking
Filmmaking, much like photography, demands an ever-evolving creative spirit. With each frame, we strive to inspire emotions and tell compelling stories. My enduring love for photography continuously invigorates my filmmaking endeavors. Navigating the synergy between these two art forms allows me to view every new project as a fresh canvas.
Reflecting on an inspiring moment, I recall a photo shoot where I captured the subtle interplay of light and shadow, which later informed a scene in a documentary I was working on. This cross-pollination between disciplines enriches my photographic and cinematic work, offering new perspectives and techniques.
As a CEO deeply invested in storytelling, I emphasize the importance of these interconnected experiences. They not only foster innovation but also drive our team to push creative boundaries. So, stay curious, and allow your passions to infuse each project with the vitality and freshness they naturally offer. Every creative journey is an opportunity to weave a narrative that captures the heart and soul of your audience. For every film, let your unique vision shine through and touch the lives of those who experience it. So keep creating, and remember to always remain true to yourself.
Derive Ideas from Daily Routine
Fresh and new ideas don't come if you force them deliberately. Retreats and spending time observing things are what I think help me be inspired and keep my work fresh and unique. Whether it's nature, dining out with my team, or exploring some literary piece, I tend to derive ideas from my daily routine and the things that I am exposed to. For example, in one of the series I directed, I took my team on a nature retreat, and we spent a few days away from the hustle and bustle. Not only this, but meanwhile, on the retreat, each member had something to pitch in regarding the ongoing series or the upcoming project. Those ideas, including mine, made perfect sense to all of us because they weren't forged; rather, they occurred naturally while at the retreat.
Step Out of Comfort Zones
Inspiration often comes from stepping out of our comfort zones and working in new environments. Seeking out novel projects that are new and unique will often produce a healthy burst of inspiration in most artists. Our minds and souls respond strongly when we step into new environments and lean into challenges.
