We were lucky to catch up with Nathaniel Turner recently and have shared our conversation below.
Nathaniel, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
It’s hard to describe where it comes from. I think it’s somewhere deep within us all. We all have a story to tell. And we have a something in common. Uncertainty. It’s always tested but nothing will make it outshine more than when the pandemic it.
In March 2020, the world turned upside down. COVID-19 brought life to a sudden stop. The directive was clear: stay indoors, work remotely, and in two weeks, things would improve.
It was during this unprecedented pandemic that I seriously embraced narrative writing. I initially started writing feature screenplays, but during NaNoWriMo, I took on the challenge of writing a novel in 30 days. What started as a 50,000-word goal blossomed into an 86,000-word manuscript, marking the beginning of my writing journey.
Four years later, I’ve drafted five manuscripts and ten screenplays. Although not published yet, I’m steadily constructing my portfolio and getting closer to full-filling that dream.
My writer’s journey is far from over. With each passing day, each new project, I hone my craft. The best is yet to come, and I’m excited to see how much further I can push my creative boundaries. Ultimately, I think resilience is by doing, not overanalyzing but just get up in the day, make a little time for one’s self and see where it says to us. For me, it’s time to write a story.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a passionate storyteller with a diverse background in film and writing. My journey began at Ringling College of Art + Design, where I graduated with honors, earning a BFA in Film. During my time there, I honed my craft and created several student films that went on to win numerous awards at film festivals. This early success fueled my ambition and strive to keep going. Immediately after graduation, I moved to Los Angeles determined to find an opportunity to hone my skills in the entertainment world. I started with an internship, but quickly advanced to executive assistant at a management and entertainment company. Over time, and in different organizations I continued to refine my skills and expertise. Currently, I hold a position as a Senior Video Editor where I work long-form and short-form content, bringing stories to life through the art of editing.
What sets me apart is my versatility and dedication. While my day job focuses on video editing, my passion for narrative extends beyond the screen. In my free time, I write screenplays and manuscripts. This gives me a unique perspective and a well-rounded approach to narrative creation on visual and written storytelling.
Storytelling is the driving force behind everything I do. Whether I’m editing films or writing, my ultimate aim is to craft compelling stories that deeply connect with viewers. With every project I undertake, I bring a one-of-a-kind combination of technical skill, creative vision, and industry experience.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I’ve emphasized passion, knowledge, and resilience. These qualities have helped me overcome challenges and build my craft as a storyteller.
Since I can remember, I’ve always been a storyteller. I would often tell a story at a young age, and usually act it out with toys. As I got older, I realized that this passion for storytelling could become a profession, and I would continue to learn the craft by making my own films, writing scripts in Final Draft, and editing the videos in Final Cut. This trend continued onward when I went to Ringling College of Art + Design. Through academia and hands-on experience, I learned the art of storytelling, plot structure, character development, linear and nonlinear editing, cinematography and producing long form and short form content. Since I graduated, I live in Los Angeles and work in advertising while also pursuing my own projects. Without passion, I wouldn’t be where I am today. If you’re not passionate about what you’re doing, it’s a waste of your time. Prioritize a field that aligns with your interests and goals. Always continue to learn the field you want to be in. There will be obstacles, dilemmas and push backs, but stay the course, trust your gut, change if you need to, but never give up.
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
There are merits to building your strengths and improving your weaknesses. Focusing on your strengths helps you become an expert in a specific area. For a couple of years, I focused solely on developing and crafting short form, fast cutting videos in advertising. By dedicating time to honing my skills, I can reach true mastery in video editing.
On the other hand, I’ve learned that being overly fixated on strengths can also present drawbacks. Neglecting to address weaknesses can limit growth potential. For example, I used to get very nervous if I had to do VFX shots. But I was assigned to do them, and dived in. It was a daunting challenge that pushed me outside my comfort zone. Through persistence, training, and a willingness to learn, I developed my VFX skills. Expanding your skill set can make you a more adaptable and valuable creative professional.
The best strategy depends on your goals, circumstances, and creative field. Position yourself for success by celebrating strengths and areas for improvement.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Ryan Robert Minford, Nathaniel Turner, C.J. Julian
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