4 Hard Truths Every Aspiring Filmmaker Needs to Hear

I don’t want to sound full of myself, but throughout my life, I’ve been told I’m talented. Filmmaking has always come naturally to me, and it’s something I deeply enjoy. Over time, I tied my identity to the idea that I’m a “talented artist who creates amazing work.” My mantra became: “Look at me. Look at my art.”

But that mindset, steeped in ignorance and ego, left me stagnant. I stopped growing.

This is a cautionary tale for young filmmakers out there. Talent is not enough. If you’re not careful, you can fall into the same traps I did. Here’s what I’ve learned—and what I wish someone had told me sooner:

1. Never Half-Ass Your Work

"Every project deserves your full attention, no matter how small or unpromising it seems."

In the past, I’ve half-assed projects. I convinced myself that if the client wasn’t paying me much—or at all—they didn’t deserve my best effort. I’d resort to shortcuts, the equivalent of shooting everything on my phone with no thought to blocking or transitions.

But by doing that, I robbed myself of growth. The headaches and challenges? That’s where the skill points are earned. Every project, no matter how trivial it feels, is a chance to refine your craft.

Yes, some gigs are thankless. But even then, you can practice transitions, experiment with editing techniques, or improve your blocking. Strive for excellence—not for others, but for yourself.

2. Don’t Alienate Yourself from Collaboration

"You can be good alone, but you can be great with others."

Ego has been one of my greatest enemies. It’s prevented me from truly collaborating and listening to other perspectives. But filmmaking is inherently collaborative—it thrives when multiple voices contribute to a shared vision.

Let others in. Be open to ideas. Greatness doesn’t come from one person dictating—it comes from building something bigger than yourself.

3. Do the Work Yourself

"You have to participate in your own rescue."

Insecurity held me back from showing my work. I’d sit on unfinished projects, waiting for someone else to step in and take over. But the truth is, nobody is as passionate about your work as you are.

You can’t wait for others to care or take action. Be the catalyst. Be the example you want others to follow. Passion and determination are infectious—attract like-minded individuals who push you forward, but never expect them to do the heavy lifting for you.

Write your scripts. Edit your footage. Own your process. Nobody’s going to hand you the finished product.

4. Finish What You Start

"Be impeccable with your word. No matter what, get it done."

My biggest downfall has always been not finishing. I overthink, crumble under the pressure of my own expectations, and end up falling short.

But I’ve learned that perfection is the enemy of progress. The key is to take it step by step. Don’t get lost in the enormity of the task—just focus on the next thing, and the next, until it’s done.

Completing projects is how you grow, how you learn, and how you prove to yourself that you’re capable.

This is what I tell myself, day in and day out. Maybe one day, my words will carry weight, but for that to happen, I have to commit.

I’m tired of disappointing myself. The only way forward is to keep creating, keep learning, and keep finishing.