We recently connected with Sophie Aguila and have shared our conversation below.

Sophie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I absolutely can never see myself not working in entertainment; my life’s mission is to make people happy through productions like film and theatre, and if this was missing I would definitely be losing a large part of my identity. That being said, I’ve been reminded recently that there are so many various jobs and styles of contribution within our industry; it’s hard to identify what would be considered “normal” in such a diverse array of work. My work style has definitely been best-suited thus far for life as a contractor; I love hopping from project to project, meeting new friends and collaborators and growing at each new opportunity and horizon. Of course, this is at the sacrifice of stability and constancy.

Sometimes, the thought does enter my mind about pivoting completely, both in work style and even in industry, and prioritizing security in life and work, especially in as the world and industry change in such volatile ways. However, I then remember why this industry is so important in such a volatile world; to remind people of truths and joy in life that sometimes get lost in stressors. My mission is to create and display worlds for audiences that motivate them to create better worlds for themselves and their communities in their own lives.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a bicoastal film director based in Burbank, currently specializing in short-form narrative storytelling! I love blending realism and fantasy in my work, since the world could always use a bit more magic. I often use filmmaking to showcase multi-dimensional and empowered female and queer characters, and to discuss universal stories of art and humanity.

I’m also always on the look-out for new clients and stories to tell as a creative director and producer. When I’m not doing these jobs, I’m freelancing throughout the Los Angeles, Philly, Dallas, and New York markets as an assistant director, production coordinator, sound mixer, and creative development and marketing consultant. My passion for production was fostered in the tight-knit and inspiring film communities of Philly during my college years, and I’ve carried this spirit with me into the West Coast network I am currently working to create with like-minded creatives. I’ve gained experience in projects ranging from indie web series to studio features, and I look forward to every new collaboration that lies ahead!​

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Life as a creative can be isolating and confusing at times, when the unique nature of jobs can make things feel like no one could understand your questions or concerns. However, that’s why the most rewarding aspect of this lifestyle is the community; building connections with other creatives, whether from similar or varying projects, departments, and experiences. is the most important and most fulfilling part of the process 100%. You can learn from perspectives you may have never considered; which is especially helpful in cases of problem-solving. Even after interacting, you continue to meet new and exciting people, and can incorporate them into existing relationships and film families. This constant growth and community-building is such a blessing I get to have in this life.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Support diverse artists, support indie artists, support human artists. By amplifying these communities, society can support the existence of a creative ecosystem built on thoughtfulness, dedication, positivity, and collaboration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sophieaguilafilms.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophieaguilaproductions/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-aguila/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sophieaguilafilms
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@directedbysophie

Image Credits

Izaiah Rojas, Victoria Wilcox, Kacie Kridlo, Lilly Dolhancryk, Shawn Salomon, C-Show Live!, Maya Corwin