The secret to creativity. There are hundreds, thousands of books written about it. As a writer, or a painter, or a dancer, where do you find your inspiration, or motivation to create? No matter what my accomplishments, or how great of leaps I’ve made in my own art, it always seem that the very next morning doubt has crept in, that I no longer believe or that I no longer want to create.
However, recently I discovered a secret. Music. Or, as I like to call it Muse-ic. I’m not saying that this technique works for everyone, but I have a suspicion that it just might. It doesn’t matter how discouraged I feel, or unmotivated, or even worse, unable to create, I force myself to just put on headphones, and listen to good music.
There is something about it that is like a direct link to inspiration. There are a few different explanations for this that I could shoot a guess at. Perhaps listening to music is a direct connection to all of the artists and art of the past. Maybe it helps me tune into the right rhythm. Maybe its even a connection to a higher power or God.
All I know is that it switches my heart and mind into a different place. Doesn’t matter what I’m thinking, when I put the headphones on, all the sudden I’m not thinking anymore and I’m just feeling. And then there is a flood of inspiration.
Here’s one song that’s been an inspiration to me. I just saw the music video and think that it is kick ass.
Recently I had the privilege of being the director of photography and editor for the echo-luxury event Green Lounge in Los Angeles. It was a cocktail lounge environment that attracted celebrities such as Alicia Silverstone of “Clueless” and Ashley Rickards of “One Tree Hill,” to talk about the environment, wellness, and business.
Below is the promo reel that I just cut – please enjoy, and as always, let me know your thoughts!
This past Friday my friend Megan and I shot an audition video for her. She is auditioning for an entertainment group which will tour aboard a cruise ship.
Most audition tapes are pretty boring – they are usually shot on a tripod, and with the actor or actress in plain clothes reciting their monologue. However, we decided to make our video a bit more dynamic.
First of all, Megan researched her historic role down to the minutia, and found herself the perfect outfit. Part two – instead of shooting in a house or at a studio, we decided to take it a step farther and actually shot aboard the Queen Mary – a cruise ship from the early 1900s that rivaled the Titanic in size and grandeur.
Below is our completed video. Enjoy, and let me know what you think!
We have not me yet, but I look forward to working together soon. Just wanted to start out letting you know that you are one of my heroes, and truly have been an inspiration for the young entertainment professional. I’m frustrated with NBC for you, but at the same time very optimistic for where your career will head.
With that said, you and I both know that you have a few months of free time before you can be on the air again. With this time, I hope that you spend it relaxing, reflecting, and getting to spend some much deserved time with your family. However, once the kids are starting to be a headache, and you are starting to get the performing itch again, I’d love to invite you to join me on the set of my upcoming independent film staring Conan O’Brian. The pay sucks, but I think it will be a good experience.
You’ll play a Boy Scout Leader who is trying to prove to his son that camping is cool in a world of wiis and ipods in my movie “Man Scouts.”
Have your people talk to my people. Or just email me. Either way.