How to be a “corporate” filmmaker in 4 steps
The glamour of Hollywood filmmaking takes center stage for a reason. We all might aspire to “make it” in the film industry, but not all of us will fit on the Hollywood hills. Not only is it saturated, Hollywood isn't for everyone. Luckily, you can make an enormous impact with your filmmaking and storytelling elsewhere.
A route that can be just as lucrative is working for companies that need our help to get their message across. Filmmakers for brands, companies, and organizations don’t need to aspire to fit the mold of a traditional artist and often thrive in collaborative environments, becoming inspired by their peers’ and colleagues’ expertise and personal stories alike. The path is less traveled but equally rewarding for those intrigued by its nuances.
The allure of movie filmmaking is enticing, but ‘corporate’ or ‘institutional’ creativity offers its own set of unique opportunities. After all, you have to make a living. I would urge anyone who thinks differently to understand that:
It’s not about conforming to a rigid set of artistic standards.
Corporate filmmaking is about finding creative solutions to real-world problems.
You are within your rights to choose clients or an employer to suit your values.
My most fulfilling projects have been those that made a tangible impact on businesses and the community.
As a professional in this intoxicating industry, here are 4 guidelines for approaching the route to corporate filmmaking:
Embrace the intersection of art and commerce
To be a hired filmmaker, you’ll need to find the sweet spot where creativity meets business objectives — and feel good about it. While Hollywood claims to prioritize artistic expression above all else, other industries require other approaches. Thriving in a brand or corporate environment — in any department — is about understanding your internal client's needs. In filmmaking specifically, you’ll be telling their story in a way that achieves measurable results. Many of us find this more satisfying than creating purely for artistic fulfillment.
Become a master in adaptability
In the corporate sphere, projects often come with tight deadlines and specific requirements. Moreover, if you don’t hit your deadline, someone else’s dominos topple too. Us filmmakers have to learn to adapt our creative vision to real-world constraints while still delivering quality content. Flexibility and resourcefulness are the greatest assets you can cultivate.
Stay ahead of trends and technological advances
The landscape of filmmaking is constantly evolving, and this is one area in which the corporate sector differs very little. Digital marketing strategies reign supreme and social media — one of your primary distribution channels — evolve literally every day. So, stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. In 2024, think immersive video experiences, interactive content, and surprising storytelling techniques. Being ahead of the curve will set you apart as a valuable asset.
Prioritize storytelling with purpose
In the corporate filmmaking realm, every video should serve a purpose beyond mere entertainment. You’re likely to be tasked with driving brand awareness, educating customers, or inspiring action, so your storytelling should always be purpose-driven. Before diving into production, take the time to understand the project’s underlying outcomes, they may not be easily unearthed and a creative brief is crucial for you to gain clarity.
Young creatives have more options than before
“Business art is the step that comes after art. I started as a commercial artist, and I want to finish as a business artist. Being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art.” —Andy Warhol
Becoming a "corporate" filmmaker is not about settling for less; it's about embracing a different kind of creativity that thrives at the intersection of art and commerce.
Here’s my advice to anyone new to filmmaking: Keep going, while working on yourself. By that I mean be relentless in the pursuit of what you enjoy creating and smart about how and from whom you learn. Also, work on yourself because insecurity and a lack of confidence will block your creative process. These natural, human characteristics can only be overcome by discipline, no matter how confident you were to begin with.
Now, you’re ready to redefine what it means to be a corporate creative in the ever-evolving landscape of filmmaking.
Time to elevate your storytelling to the skies? Partner with a seasoned filmmaker who understands the intricacies of the corporate, impact, and technology worlds. You bring your vision. I’ll bring my expertise in crafting compelling visual narratives tailored to corporate audiences. Together we’ll see how high we can fly.
