We were lucky to catch up with Louis Douyon recently and have shared our conversation below.
Louis, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
My creativity is deeply rooted in real-world experiences. To keep it alive, I actively seek out new adventures and perspectives. I find inspiration in conversations—listening to people share their interests, untold stories, and unique life experiences. These moments ignite my curiosity and push me to explore unfamiliar territory. As a filmmaker, this translates into experimenting with new methods of storytelling. Whether it’s trying out cutting-edge gear, discovering fresh angles, or collaborating with diverse individuals, each experience shapes my creative approach and keeps my passion for filmmaking thriving.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
During my prime young adult years, I spent countless hours watching creators on YouTube and other platforms, inspired by their content to embark on a similar path. My filmmaking journey began as an editor, piecing together clips shot on my phone or cameras I borrowed from university. This process ignited my passion for storytelling. Sharing these videos with family and friends gave me a profound sense of connection and validation, reinforcing my love for filmmaking.
In university, I fully embraced this interest. I offered assistance with video projects for other students, served as the lead videographer for a student-run college radio station, and tackled challenging academic projects centered on video production. As my skills developed, I began offering paid services to help cover tuition. My transition into music video directing began when family members, recognizing my growing passion, supported me in purchasing my first personal camera.
After graduation, I took a job I deeply disliked, but every moment outside of work was dedicated to creating music videos for local artists and producing comedic sketches. These projects taught me the basics of independent filmmaking and allowed me to hone my craft. As the dissatisfaction with my job grew and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic set in, an unexpected opportunity arose: a position at a local full-service video production company specializing in documentary filmmaking.
During my time there, I absorbed as much as I could, working as an editor, camera operator, and assistant. After nearly two years, I felt ready to chart my own course as a filmmaker. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working with famous Chicago musicians, major brands like McDonald’s and Sony, and launching my own video production business. Now, with eight years of professional filmmaking experience, I’m proud of the journey that has shaped my career and continues to inspire me.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
From a filmmaking perspective, the three most impactful qualities and skills in my journey have been communication, prioritizing time management, and being knowledge-driven.
1. Communication
Filmmaking is a collaborative art form, and strong communication skills are essential for working effectively with clients, crew members, and collaborators. It’s about more than just conveying your ideas—it’s about listening, understanding others’ perspectives, and fostering a creative environment where everyone feels heard. Early on, I learned the importance of articulating my vision clearly while being open to feedback. My advice for developing this skill is to actively practice presenting your ideas and seeking constructive input, whether in a class project, on set, or in casual collaborations. Strong interpersonal communication is a cornerstone of successful filmmaking.
2. Prioritizing Time Management
Balancing multiple projects, deadlines, and creative demands can quickly become overwhelming without effective time management. Early in my career, I learned to prioritize tasks by distinguishing between urgent and important responsibilities. This skill allowed me to meet client expectations and still have time to refine my craft. My advice is to invest in tools like calendars, project management apps, or even simple to-do lists, and develop a habit of planning your day with achievable goals. Start small—focus on building consistency in managing your time and watch how it enhances your productivity.
3. Being Knowledge-Driven
Filmmaking is an ever-evolving field, and staying curious and committed to learning has been key to my growth. Whether it’s mastering new equipment, exploring different storytelling techniques, or studying the work of other filmmakers, a hunger for knowledge keeps creativity alive. I make it a point to learn something new with every project. For those just starting out, I recommend immersing yourself in tutorials, workshops, and books while also experimenting on your own. Never underestimate the value of hands-on experience combined with continuous learning—it’s a formula for long-term success.
By focusing on these three qualities, I’ve been able to navigate the challenges of filmmaking and grow both creatively and professionally. For anyone early in their journey, I’d say: work on communicating effectively, manage your time with intention, and stay curious—your passion will thank you for it.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
The number one challenge I’m currently facing is navigating the consequences of growth and development. Pursuing my passion has led to the loss of friendships and strained relationships with some family members. As I’ve grown older, my priorities have shifted toward deepening my understanding of my craft and becoming the best version of myself within my career. Coming from humble beginnings, many of the people I’ve known don’t fully understand or align with this change in direction, which has sometimes meant letting go of relationships I once believed would last a lifetime.
To overcome this challenge, I’ve embraced stepping out of my comfort zone to meet new people who share my values and creative passions. I’m focused on cultivating meaningful connections and building relationships that align with the person I’m becoming and the career I’m pursuing. This shift hasn’t been easy, but it’s teaching me the importance of surrounding myself with individuals who inspire growth, creativity, and mutual understanding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eyeofalexandre.com
- Instagram: visually_louisd
- Linkedin: Louis Alexandre Douyon
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
