We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Derae Rain a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Derae, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

All my life I’ve been inspired and driven by the arts. I am a person that thrives in the visual medium and I am passionate about storytelling. Growing up in South Africa I was surrounded by a rich cultural tapestry and it allowed me to grow as an artist. Choosing to move her to the USA was a big change but it allowed me to explore different creative mediums such as being behind the camera and working as a cinematographer!

Derae, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

When I was younger I was involved in many in front of the camera projects including a local reality TV show called She’s the One. I have won many visual art competitions and thrived as a visual artist working in oils, acrylic and mixed media. During this phase of my life I am exploring illustration as an artistic outlet and fx makeup. I also have started exploring cosplay as a form of self expression.

When I moved to the states I was given the opportunity to pursue cinematography. As a beginner in this field I have strived to learn as much as I can from the people around me- working on small films and shorts and figuring my way around a camera. As an immigrant and a WOC , I have found it interesting working in a male dominated field, having to explore creating my own content in order to get hands on experience! Which is an adventure most days!

Playing with shadows, painting with light- working with people! The art of filmmaking is never boring and it’s a masterclass in problem solving. This past year I have grown as a storyteller tremendously and I hope to continue on this path!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

As an artist, when you create something and send it into the world- chances are that there will be someone who resonates with what you have created. Film, art, music- it’s all a way to connect humanity. I can’t even imagine a world without it!

Film has evolved so much but still has a lasting impact on building perceptions and creating connections for an audience. A lot of what people see in film affects how they think and who they want to be- not always in a positive manner. The power of film is that it is so suggestive. And that’s why it is so important to create content that shows representation of diversity. That is why it’s important to have a human connection in the stories you create for people to relate to.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

The best camera you have is the camera you’ve got. If you want to make a movie just go out there- grab a few friends- and make a movie. Every mistake you make is a lesson learned – but only if you allow yourself to make those mistakes. Take those risks. Most people live in fear of failure while they pursue perfection and so they never try anything because whatever they might want to make they feel like it’s not ready or it’s not perfect yet.

If you don’t know how to use a camera visit a camera house and ask about things- go onto YouTube- take some night classes! Whatever you want to pursue in life- you will need to adapt and learn in order to succeed.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @deraerai

Image Credits
Jahruneel Rai Nathaniel Bannister Derae Rai