Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lauren Duncan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Lauren, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

As a director/producer in Los Angeles, naturally there is a desire to have a legacy in fine arts. I desire to create award-winning work. But I hope that my legacy is creating award-winning quality work while creating a kind and supportive work environment. My desire is to create content around dance, whether that be music videos, documentaries, commercial or social, I seek to create uplifting stories that center on the art of dance, which is the art of the body. I’ve heard it said by dancers that they work a thankless job or are often shocked at what directors consider to be their best shot or best trick. I take the time to listen and understand the industry though I’ve never competed or worked in the athletic field myself. I try to be a director that accepts partnership with dancers and choreographers similar to quality relationships between actor and director that award winning movies make famous.

Lauren, 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?

My name is Lauren Duncan, and since I was a kid I was obsessed with the art form of dance. However, my talents and disciplines were in more traditional sports; so dance never went beyond a much-loved hobby. I went to Elon University where I sought to graduate with a B.F.A which required a thesis project. I am a visually driven person, so writing a script for this project didn’t feel like it catered to my strength. Instead, I partnered with the extremely talented dance program to create a 45 minute dance film festival.

The project was my greatest accomplishment, but moving to Los Angeles from North Carolina was about taking a bold step into learning. I participated in many on-set jobs and offices soaking up every good and bay day in all aspects of production. After working as a coordinator and project manager in a high-stress corporate environment, I felt it was ready to start my own business in this market. And today the projects that give me the greatest satisfaction are those dance films that I can create in partnership with the dancers. I pride myself in the ability to scale a project to a client’s budget and needs, but I will try to sell you that dance is the best way to promote your product or song.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I’m fortunate in that since my dream job is so niche there is a whole outer circle of production needs that I can utilize to fund my passion projects that are currently building my business reputation. My first side hustle was filming and editing weddings. The year after I graduated college, I was able to book enough weddings in a calendar year to purchase my own gear. Since stepping away from filming and traveling for weddings, that gear is still servicing my business and freelance opportunities. Overall, I would say my willingness to hustle will continue to fund my business and my dreams.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Honesty. I understand the nature of “fake it ’til you make it” in this business and trust me, I do have to fake on those days where I can’t make nothin. However, I have a reputation of honesty in that I will tell you where my strengths, talents and experience are. On the flip side, I will tell you where I am lacking in talent or experience and if I can’t cater your project to my strengths I will send you to the best budgetary option. My greatest strengths in directing are in dance, that is the area in which I can have the level of detail required to great engaging content and not at the expense of your team and talent.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurduncan/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-duncan-2843b8a5
• Youtube: https://vimeo.com/340310877

Image Credits
BTS Photo Credit: Cory Miller Production Stills / DP: Carter Ross