We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful ISAAK KIMMEL. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with ISAAK below.
ISAAK, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
Working as a freelancer in the film industry, you’re surrounded by pessimism, and rightly so. The unpredictable hiring process, grueling hours, and unfortunately common lack of basic human decency can weigh heavily on all of us.
Fortunately, the people you encounter in film make up for it all. This industry attracts a wide variety of simply amazing individuals. When I’m feeling jaded about my career path, I think of the quirky conversations I’ll share on an overnight shoot with my crew, or the collective laughter sparked by a well-timed joke during lunch. The connections formed through the trials of a difficult set or the triumph of a successful one last a lifetime. It’s these connections made on set that fuel my optimism when I think about the future.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My name is Isaak Kimmel. I’m from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and four years ago, at the age of 19, I decided to relocate to LA with my sister to pursue a career in film. When we arrived, we didn’t have a car, we didn’t know anyone, and I delivered food on my ebike to pay rent for the studio apartment we shared. Today, I work full-time as a cinematographer, and I just finished filming my second feature film. Reflecting on the last four years, it’s been a crazy ride, and I am beyond grateful to my friends, co-workers, and family for helping me get to where I am.
I primarily work on music videos, short films, and features To me, it’s the coolest job in the world. Every day I’m thrown into a new location with new faces and personalities. Half of the day is spent cracking jokes, and the other half we’re engaged in intense high-stakes problem-solving. It’s an absolute joy.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Communication has been one of my biggest struggles as a filmmaker, but I am actively striving to improve it every day. Effective communication is paramount in any collaborative endeavor. Practice cultivating empathy and putting yourself in other people’s shoes. Voice your concerns early and come prepared with potential solutions. Simply incorporating please and thank you into your language can make a significant difference in your perceived tone.
Preproduction is key! Anticipate challenges and start problem-solving before you even step foot on set. The success of your project hinges directly on the depth of thought and planning you undertake beforehand, so don’t overlook this crucial step.
Don’t be an asshole. There’s a prevalent notion in the film industry that being a good leader means being tough or harsh. I firmly believe this is misguided advice that only breeds resentment among your crew. True leadership is ego-free. Avoid shifting blame, offer genuine praise, and maintain an open mind. Remember, the people around you likely excel at their roles, and you may not be as smart as you think.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely, I’m always on the lookout for chances to connect with fellow creatives in the industry. If you’re passionate and kind, let’s chat! Feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] and share something you’re proud of—I’d be thrilled to check it out.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.isaakkimmel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaak_kimmel/
Image Credits
Alyssa Danae BTS Photographer
