Man when you finally called yourself a director, I could hear in your voice how much that choice you made means to you. That’s awesome.

It is funny because for the last 6 months I've been asking myself this question. Thank you for making this video Danny, really appreciate the love you put into your channel!

Tough call for sure! Been struggling for a few years between trying to focus more on cinematography and camera operating or still trying to direct / shoot complete projects. Now I am also adding being a dad and a KZfaqr haha !! Great video mate :)

I mean I feel like the beautiful thing is that we live in a world where Indy Film makers are able to put stuff out that can get millions of views without going the traditional production route. To me you are one of the greatest examples of this. Anyways, love your work man.

thank you for this ... also to everyone out there if you want to be a director and know a cinematographer or vise versa the more yall work together the more you create that chemistry and yall help each other out more and grow at a faster pace good luck

Just love listening to you speaking from the heart. I also started out as a cinematographer but lately switched into being a colorist. I realized that what I loved most about all the images I shot was not the shooting process or the editing but rather grading the footage and make stories come to life though colors. I basically shot and edited just to get to the grading process. Glad I made that realization :) being honest to yourself is something I always took away from your videos. Love your channel, so stoked for your movie!

I really loved the insight you've given detailing your upbringing and your transition into directing. I definitely wanted to start off, wanting to direct through college, but honestly, the work ethic for directing is extremely difficult a lot of times, especially if you're starting off. My last project I did, as a director, was a music video for my friend back in 2019. I haven't directed since, but I've done a lot of shooting as a DP, and doing a lot of work as a 2nd or 1st AC, occasionally G&E crew, and being able to hop onto those sets has REALLY helped me understand the overall needs of a production, as an observer. It's helped me with my shooting, and, coming this summer, when I end up directing my next short film. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've gained working on these sets and getting these connections, and I'm really excited to be getting this short with my friends wanting to make it for over three years now (pandemic delays), finally happen.

I've literally been asking myself this exact question almost every day for the last two months, impeccable timing. Always love to hear your perspective Danny!

It's been such a genuine joy to watch the journey. Appreciate you making time to give us a window to that part of your life. Big help for the rest of us trying to figure it out too. Excited to see the next big projects coming dude.

Thanks man. I was struggling with this question and your video really made me feel reassured. Subbed.

Thanks for the insight and inspiration Danny. This is something I grapple with every day. You’re gonna crush the feature!

You're such a calm soul, always a better day after your videos!

Man this is so cool. Been following for a while. Much love!

Having just graduated from college I really resonate with a lot of the early beginnings you mentioned here, just trying to find ways to get my name out there, working on small projects and stuff like that. This makes me feel a bit better, I've got time to figure out if I want to pursue editing or cinematography more or something else entirely maybe.

I’m 46 and trust me - nothing’s different. I started out later, only 10 years ago, as I had a corporate job before but I’m asking these same questions. I think this sort of questioning and discussion is great food for thought and helping weigh strategic opportunities / creative directions of travel. Good content man

Thanks for this insight Danny. As someone who sort of fell into making videos, one of my long term goals is making documentaries and I’ve started in the wedding space. I really resonated with the storytelling piece you described because there are a lot of tiktoks/reels that are trending because they look cool… but the whole goal for me in this work is to accurately tell people’s stories in a captivating way. Hoping to continue to hone my skills in storytelling just as you’re doing!

Great video! Been struggeling with that decision as well and I'm kinda comming to the same outcome. I think the last argument you brought is propably the best. As a Director, knowing a lot about cinematography or basically any other department will help massively in communicating your vision to your team and create a better film overall.

Definitely needed this! Thanks Danny! Still trying to pave my path in the filmmaking world aswell! Keep up the great work! You're a huge inspiration for me!

I relate to you on nearly every point you made. Thanks so much for making this video, Danny. Brought a good bit of clarity and foresight.

Here in Brazil we r seeing a lot of directors whos also the cinematographer, but back in the day not touching the camera was something we thought so "superior"... And we were all wrong, because it's such an amazing feeling to hold a camera and craft every shot that sooner or later you'll hold one! Really nice video Dan, well done!

This is a really great video. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and insights. So happy to have found you and your channel.

Always a fan of your directing style, Danny! Keep up the good work 🎥💪🏽

Awesome! I can feel you :) so happy that someone is talking so honest about that topic

Great talk Danny. Was really good to watch this. And good luck with your movie**

Your journey with cinematography is so similar to mine with editing. Working on bigger and bigger projects at a young age. Making money. And basically falling out of love with editing. Starting the transition to directing now, but it's like you said: you start doing everything on small projects. Loving the change of pace and the challenge :)

Thanks for sharing Danny, another tip I think for anyone starting out, it definitely makes more sense to become a cinematographer first then later a director, comparing to first director and then cinematography. So if you are someone who has2 interest in the technical side of filmmaking, definitely start as a cinematographer. This way would also give you much more confidence leading the production as a director later down the line.

always watching your honest content! keep at it, it's making a difference

much love bro. thank you

These are by far my absolute favorite pieces of media on KZfaq.

Hmm, definitely a very insightful anecdote. As many of us enter the machine that is filmmaking, it's great that you shed light on how to navigate which of the moving parts will be the most fulfilling to us as an individual. Appreciate you sharing as always ! Looking forward to your feature film

What a perfect timing man, I've been stuck with the same question too. Thank you so much for this video, all the best. (watching your videos from Burma)

Danny thank you for even acknowledging the job title Director…in my experience 0.01% of KZfaqrs who have channels on Filmmaking talk about Directing at all. As you know, there’s no job title on a call sheet labelled “filmmaker”. We all start out wearing multiple hats but once you enter the industry, you don’t find a lot of generalists, everyone seems to be a specialist. A producer doesn’t want a gaffer who wants to DP, and also cam ops, and ACs…he/she wants the best gaffer who’s available…and the best ones are often booked. But it’s a catch 22 since in order to make it above the line one usually has to do everything themselves in order to make a film.

That first part of deciding which direction to go is something I definitely relate to. I like your method of starting off with camera work, then cinematography and the directing. That was your personal journey though. It's good to know what others have done. Ita not cut and dry and the directiong personal, so thanks for sharing!

I love you Danny, this is awesome

I've been doing both simply because my projects range from low to mid/high range prices. So most of the time I wear multiple hats. Even when I have a crew, I still become the Director, DP, Editor for the project. I love directing and storytelling, but I am also in love with light and lenses. So its always a struggle to choose my main title. Dope video man!

You’re the best. Great vid and insight brother!

This was very insightful!

Such a great video on the different roles dude!

Great, Danny! All decisions are not easy to do, many dreams is a Mather of decision. All the best and thank for for all I learn to you. You will be always welcome to The AZORES.

Been following your journey for a while now and I am truly happy about how things turned out for you! Wishing you all the best for your film! cheers, .c

Having both skills is a plus. All the best.

I was just thinking about this a lot and this video helped a lot! Thanks so much Danny ✨

Great video thank you for this

This was really uplifting

Thank you for this Video 🔥

Love this video. There's a lot of aspiring filmmakers in my community that can't afford it. I watch your videos all the time.

This is absolutely fantastic 👏

Such a great video Danny. Can't wait to see your film and would love to come to the premiere!

Danny… you’re my favourite channel out there. I’m a filmmaker and actor. The content you put out is fantastic. I’d love to act in a future film of yours one day!

As always thanks mate, I’m in the exact same position. Just directed my first short film after 6 years of doing all the solo stuff. Being a cinematographer was all I wanted until I realized I can just hire every single role out and get my project done with a lot more skill and passion. Only problem is paying people to be apart of something that ultimately goes on KZfaq or IG. Thanks as always love you too!

I’ve always thought I took the right path learning the camera and cinematography first… I remember Robert Rodriquez doing it all and that’s what I wanted… It was more significant learning on Film Cameras 20 years ago… Later you realize a camera is a “cameras” and as you said they are “Technical” and if you can learn the technicals of cinematography you will also learn lighting and you will also learn directing as you work with other directors… ♥️

Thanks for the break down Danny! That is a struggle I have to figure out what lane is best for me especially when all aspects of the creative process I enjoy like a jack of all trades, but doing everything does lead to burnout and that's a killer to the process haha. It's a fun journey that's for sure 😎

Man... every time I feel down your videos lift me up and give the muses to continue shooting!

Great perspective. I particularly enjjoy the lead up to WHEN you made the delineation between dp and director. Thanks for this one, mate.

KZfaq setup looking cleannn my dude.

very helpful Danny ❤

If you want to influence storytelling, culture, and what winds up on the screen (ads, tv, docs, film) become an exec. You’ll have more power, more security, and a most likely healthier lifestyle. If you’re a creative and want to put your input in feel, texture, and emotion - becoming a director understanding that your client (the executive) will have say over you and as you will have to fulfill the job handed to you using your creativity and you’ll only really cut lose on your projects and projects you secure funding for (where executives will also have say over the work). And if you want to elevate the vision of a director and a production become a dp. Knowing full well that you will have to adhere to a collaborative process. Having a healthy understanding of all departments and roles on both the business and creative sides will make you better at your job. Moreover, focus on your audience and why you are doing what you do. Stop obsesssing with gear. Everyone can shoot pretty images and pay for views (or earn them over time) but very few will make an impression on an audience that will truly contribute to their life journey. Lastly, don’t rule out producing. You will learn heaps more than all of the above and figure your path with way more understanding. And while I know most of you reading are KZfaq focused creators, this would mean helping on someone’s channel rather than doing your own. I know we all want to be rulers and leaders but storytelling is a team sport and while it can be played individually you’ll go a lot further and grow more in collaboration. Godspeed creatives. You are the gatekeepers and caretakers of our greatest man made resource - stories.

This is exactly where I'm at now. I tried to shoot weddings, commercials and other sort of videos. First you feel excited, but once it's done the only questions remains: "Okay, and what's next?" For me the beauty of cinematography it's a great way to express what you already have within yourself, though it's a lot tougher rather than just to make a beautiful shoot as you mentioned. Thank you for sharing this. It's important to know that I'm not alone on this path. :)

Anyone else in their mid 30's just starting on filmmaking? It's daunting, but boy am I hungry for it. I feel so fulfilled when I'm shooting, editing, or doing anything film related. I can only hope I'll be able to leave my office job sometime this year.

Yeah dude, I noticed the Jordy Searcy backing track ... for want of a less karaoke-esque word. Glad to hear you give him a shoutout, amazing artist.

this video came out in perfect timing for me. i want to direct, but have been more active with cinematography lately.

I recognized some of the ExpressWay Cine Rental logos on your gear! woot woot...

You are an amazing person and believe that you will accomplish.

Good talk, Danny. It resonated a lot. You wouldn't be what you are if you didn't go through all you've been. You had to be one-man band and l learned everything you did in order to feel like a director. Thanks for this video

Totally with you man.. You just said everything what I wanted to say.. 🥰 Love You Tooo ❤️

I’m at this exact point in my business right now, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

Good talk brother, appreciate it 👌

For me both the paths are okay , but I would like to have a certain skills , if I am looking forward to working in film industry. Skills will eventually help us build a better portfolio. ✌️✌️

Still loving these vids man - keep them coming !

I agree with everything you said. However I have a special situation where my mom is the director and writer and I’m the DP and editor. So she gives me alot of creative control on things because well she raised me and we have similar taste. She loves writing the story and working with the actors to get the performances. I love giving it the look and editing it into a story. We also will compromise on things like if she really wants this specific shot I will shoot it but in editing she’ll just let me do my thing, watch it and if she likes it she’ll let that cut ride. If not she will give notes and we will talk about it. But yeah what we really want is to feel some ownership over something rather than feeling like a hired gun.

I feel this. I've been working full time in-house cinematography and a lot of one-man-band for an advertising agency and the in-house editing process burned me out so much (15+ revisions? omg lol). I've been expanding the cinematography capabilities of the agency, but I am looking to control more of the process and own projects as a director. I think it's going to take me starting more of my own projects, but this in-house work is madness lol and the burn out is real.

Loved this bro, really puts in perspective for thinking about your future. As attractive as bigger sets, brands and companies look, looks like it’s not always as great as it seems. Less creative control as a whole but less work..ish?😅 appreciate the video man🔥

Love you too. ❤️

Im 46 and just gettin started. Thanks

I enjoy both sides tbh I love being a DP working the camera feeling the shot, but also love directing the set knowing that hopefully the finishing project is your vision from the moment the light passes the lens to that sensor and you capture something you created can’t beat it. I’ve been in this game 30 years now been fortunate enough to travel the world many times doing what I love some good some bad, just part of the day lol but It’s a hard decision no doubt that’s why I try and do both lol, good luck man and no matter what way you decide your gonna make magic it’s natural for you. Good luck on your film

I recently made the call to ‘call’ myself a cinematographer as I truly love the technology and shaping with light. I do however love to tell stories if I get the chance. Tough one!

I am glad I watched this

It was very helpful. I was thinking a director was the thing I wanted to do for the rest of my life but it wasn't but I always love making KZfaq videos but this video made it clear for me now and I chose in web, graphic design and KZfaqr or I call it "KZfaq Director" for everything I want to share and many more.

Please more "boring talking videos". I really enjoy those. And so happy to see Sansa at the end of the video. Much love from the Netherlands.

Thank you sir, big love ❤️

such a cool topic, something that everybody seems to struggle with. This stuff helps honestly

This feeling when you are awesome in everything and cannot decide what to choose, gold or diamonds :D

I choose both mate!

I went down the same path. Salute to you man and best of luck and success on your film. 😎✊🏿

Thank you for this vid. A masterful explanation of the DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DP and Director. Most ppl confuse the two. As a director I've worked with many egotistical directors-at-heart masquerading as DPs. It's ok to disagree with the decision of the director. But ithe only job of the DP is to help carry out the VISION OF THE DIRECTOR! Many DPs dont understand this. Cinematography is a completely separate and different artform that folds beautifully into but UNDER the auspice of the art and skill of being a director. I respect your decision and journey into directing. Thanks for beautifully making the distinction between the two. I will use this vid when hiring my next DP. Hopefully when I find a master at the craft who's professional enough....I won't need it. Peace.

I am in my second year of film school and personally, I was struggling a lot with not getting any work but this video has given me the insight and the calmness that I needed, I am just 18 gonna turn 19 this year just gotta focus on my skills and go with the flow...

Man thanx for this video i too gat the sam ques haha

Thanks man you are doing great ❤

Thanks for the clarification 🫶🏽

Awesome!!!

I kinda like being both

I love you Danny your so awsome and talented guy.

Hey Danny, How you exposed the FX3 ? Thank you

I think I should go for cinematography, learn work , get perspective and then try to direct some personal projects.

where did you find those referrence image that you use on milanote danny? so curious tho! pleaseeee...

You gotta do what makes you happy, Bro. I love you too.

i probably will never be able to thank you enough for how you help me get throug a door i was praying to get pass. Thank you brother . God Bless. Mark my words some day i will have the honor to be your cinematographer

Te quiero Danny

What monitor do you use for editing sir?

Its like your speaking to my soul