We recently connected with Brad A. Kinnan and have shared our conversation below.
Brad A., appreciate you joining us today. 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?
As a freelance film director, producer and photographer, I find unparalleled joy and fulfillment without having a quote on quote, “normal job”. I was fortunate to begin my journey as a creative working on working on some incredibly inspirational projects that encouraged me to stick on the road less traveled, namely Ryan Gosling’s directorial debut, ‘Lost River,’ right after graduating college. The individuals I met on set spurred me towards Los Angeles, and since moving here I’ve contributed to several Hollywood productions and founded my own production company, DYNMC Creative.
Since I immediately started building my own independent venture when I arrived in LA, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of clients, ranging from automotive companies and tech startups to indie musicians and record labels. While the path of an artist is often demanding, filled with challenges and uncertainties, the ability to express my artistic vision freely is what helps me sleep at night.
Sure, the stability of a regular job may cross my mind at times, but the adventures I’ve had from pursuing my creative career have taught me so many valuable life lessons. I’ve grown as a person because of it.
Brad A., love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I spent the first half of my life growing up in Michigan. After attending Michigan State University, I relocated to Los Angeles and founded the commercial production company, DYNMC Creative in 2016 with a group of classmates.
My recent narrative work includes a brand new horror/sci-fi short produced with my long-standing collaborator Stefan Dezil, who I also helped produce the short “Thirst” in association with 20th Century Studios for Hulu’s “Bite Size Halloween” series. I’ve also directed a slew of acclaimed music videos for several recording artists: FM-84, Ollie Wride, Jay Diggs, W O L F C L U B, Michael Oakley, Parallels and The New Division. My music videos have amassed over 20 million views on YouTube and have won awards at film festivals around the world. I tend to lean into the aesthetics and filmic style of the 1980s, my favorite period of cinema and music.
I’ve always enjoyed collaborating with emerging artists because there’s a sort of innocence to people who are early on in their creative journey. As a result, I’ve learned a lot about how to help an artist shape their visual identity through film, photography and design. I continue to work with a lot of the same artists I started working with when I first started freelancing. This October I’ll actually be touring with Ollie Wride and Parallels who I’ve worked with for over 5 years.
I live to think of myself as very adaptable and resourceful when it comes to production. My experience has given me the flexibility to run a set of 20-30 people, but also allows me to craft visuals on a small scale too. I never shy away from the opportunity to go out and shoot something, even if it’s just me. I’m happiest when I’m on a set, no matter the size or scale.
Bonus round: When I’m not shooting and directing I enjoy shooting 35mm/120 film as well as writing/producing sci-fi inspired electronic music under the moniker, SLACKMACHINE. You can listen to my debut EP, ‘VISION OF TOMORROW’ on any streaming service.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding thing about being an artist is being able to connect with your audience. I can’t express how great it feels when your work “resonates” with someone on a personal level. Of course, I’m being creative for myself most of the time, but it’s those moments when you receive affirmation from the outside world that really puts some pep in your step and makes you want to keep going.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
More often that not, I find that society undervalues artists and creatives. Everyone, no matter their background, enjoys or consumes some form of art at some point in their life. The problem is that people tend to take it for granted and don’t realize most artists are struggling to make a living. The fact that a lot of entertainment is being run by huge corporations doesn’t help either – the royalties and earnings creatives make is lower now than ever. I think the solution is making sure to invest in the artists you love. When you go see a concert spend some money at the merch table! Go buy your favorite directors horror film off their website! And if anyone has a Patreon or similar crowd-funding platform, contribute something. It’s a great way to show your support for their work and will help them continue to create amazing art for you to enjoy.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bradakinnan.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradakinnan
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shotbybrad
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/bradakinnan
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BradAKinnan
- Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/bradakinnan
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bradakinnan
Image Credits
Main photo / photo with Brad taking photo: Guthrie Melchiade Photos on film set: Randy Jacob