We were lucky to catch up with Dean Russell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Dean thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

With a passion for filmmaking that began at 12 years old, I attended the #1 arts high school in the country, LACHSA, where I was able to hone my craft with equipment that is used on professional movies and shows. In that time, I went on to create numerous short films and music videos that have been seen in film festivals throughout the country. As I grew older, I found a real passion for creating promotional video content. It started when I was able to direct commercials for a company called TwirlyGirl, which went on to be seen by millions. It was then that I saw the opportunity to start a video production company so I could help other businesses create video content, but I still needed more experience working in the business world. So I joined my local Chamber of Commerce shortly after starting my business at 21 years old. From there, I was able to market myself to other members and found opportunities to build my craft by helping them create impactful videos.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

The core of Dean Russell Productions LLC is to create impactful video content that connects the viewer to the brand. My services range from presentation-style videos to interview-style video content. The biggest problem my clients face is that they have such a great story to tell about themselves, and their services/products, but have a hard time explaining that story to the public. I create videos for them so that these stories can be told in a way that is impactful (sometimes sentimental) to the customer. For example, my client Keck Medicine of USC, has such innovative patient care programs, health initiatives, etc. However, these programs are difficult to understand, especially understanding the impact that they have on patients. So I create video content with patients, doctors, etc. to show the impact Keck Medicines life saving work. This helps connect potential donors to the brand of Keck Medicine of USC, thus increasing donations to their work. This is something I’m so proud of because it shows that video content can be a tool for creating a better, healthier world.

I want potential clients to know that I believe that video has the power to transform marketing campaigns and communicate complex concepts in a way that is accessible and engaging to customers. Whether you’re looking to create a promotional video, a training video, or a documentary-style video, I’m committed to delivering high-quality, effective video solutions that meet your unique needs.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect is to actually see the final version of the video I’ve worked on. It’s funny to think that video production has so many steps involved, but the final product can feel seamless and cohesive. We start with pre-production, which is finding a location to film, finding the talent, getting a crew together, etc. Then we go into production, which involves setting up lighting, audio, and the camera. Then we go into post-production, which is where we edit the raw footage into a video, adding special effects, titles, coloring, etc.

When all of these steps come together, it’s such a great feeling, to think that this project that started from just an idea and now is a real thing. In some ways, videographers are magicians, we create believable illusions that really have so many mechanics and steps behind the scenes.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Growing up in Los Angeles with a single mother and limited financial resources had a set of its own unique challenges. With this background, my early experiences instilled in me resilience and an unwavering drive to succeed.

As a young business owner, I encountered skepticism and doubt from those who questioned my abilities due to my age and experience. However, I continue to rise to the occasion and provide professional and quality video production that engages all audiences.

These experiences have taught me that resilience is about defying the odds and expectations of others. My passion for this work is proven every day I show and produce quality content.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.deanrussellproductions.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deanrussellproductions/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-russell-0/