We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rowan Faris. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rowan below.

Hi Rowan, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on to date is SNIP, my first narrative short film as a director. This project holds a special place in my heart for many reasons, but primarily because of its powerful story.

SNIP follows a young girl determined to get the haircut she’s always wanted—a seemingly simple act that unfolds into a profound exploration of her journey toward embracing her true self. The film delves into both the internal and external challenges of expressing one’s identity and the unexpected emotions that accompany steps toward self-acceptance.

I connected with the SNIP script instantly. As a young girl, I often faced similar struggles in understanding myself—feeling both confident and confused, free yet frustrated. SNIP captures these complex experiences, reflecting the dynamic reality of growing up as a girl.

This project is also particularly meaningful because of its strong commitment to female representation, both in front of and behind the camera. The cast is entirely female-presenting, and our crew consists of over 51% female members. Promoting female representation in film is something I’m deeply passionate about, and I’m thrilled that my first narrative short embodied this commitment.

What made SNIP even more special was the incredible community behind it. Many of the women involved in this project are long-time collaborators and dear friends. Their contributions brought a unique magic to the film, and I think that sense of camaraderie and passion shines through the project.

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 entered the industry through event production. Fresh out of college, I began working at a large church, where I produced their events. In this role, I oversaw all creative elements, including stage design, film, and video production. It was here that I discovered my passion for film and felt a strong desire to branch out independently to create projects that truly resonated with me.

Leveraging my background in large-scale stage design, I began freelancing in production design, working on short films, feature films, commercials, and music videos. Along the way, I nurtured my passion for directing. I started with creative photoshoots, music videos, and spec ads, which deepened my love for narrative storytelling.

Today, my primary creative services include creative direction, photography, and production design. I specialise in bringing brands to life through photo and video shoots, and I love crafting compelling visual stories that resonate deeply with audiences.

The things that set me apart as a creative are the things I am most passionate about: collaboration, diverse representation, and high-end creativity. I believe the best stories emerge from a collective effort where every voice is valued and heard, fostering an environment where creativity can truly thrive. Representation is at the heart of my work—I am committed to bringing diverse perspectives to the forefront, both in front of and behind the camera, ensuring that underrepresented voices are amplified and celebrated. Finally, I hold myself to the highest creative standards, constantly pushing boundaries to deliver work that is not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant. This combination of values shapes every project I undertake, driving me to create impactful, meaningful art that connects with audiences on a deeper level.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely, there’s a clear mission driving my creative journey. At its core, my work is fueled by a deep commitment to authentic storytelling, collaboration, and diverse representation. I believe that every person has a story worth telling, and my goal is to create spaces where those stories can be shared with unflinching honesty and fresh perspectives.

Collaboration is at the heart of everything I do. Whether I’m directing a narrative short like SNIP or designing sets or creative stories for clients, I approach each project with the belief that the best work comes from a collective effort. It’s not about imposing my vision; it’s about fostering an environment where every voice—on set and behind the scenes—is heard, valued, and respected. When everyone feels empowered and supported, creativity flourishes, and that’s where the magic happens.

Diverse representation is another cornerstone of my mission. I’m dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and
showcasing stories that challenge norms and celebrate individuality. This commitment goes beyond casting; it’s about building crews that reflect a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. My first narrative short, SNIP, was a testament to this, featuring an all-female-presenting cast and a majority-female crew. These choices aren’t just about equity—they enrich the storytelling process and ensure that the work resonates on a deeper, more inclusive level.

Finally, I’m passionate about pushing creative boundaries. I don’t believe in playing it safe. From my production design work to my own directing projects, I aim to create art that is visually compelling, emotionally resonant, and, above all, authentic. My goal is to capture the complexity of the human experience with honesty and nuance, encouraging viewers to see themselves—and others—in a new light.

Ultimately, I want my work to inspire people to explore their identities, express themselves freely, and connect with stories that reflect the diversity and depth of our shared experiences. If I can create even a small ripple of understanding or spark a moment of reflection, I know I’m on the right path.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was about money and self-worth as a creative. It can be incredibly difficult to value your own work and set fair prices, especially when you’re just starting out. For a long time, I found myself undercharging or taking on projects “for experience,” often at the cost of not making any money—or worse, losing it.

There’s this constant push and pull: you want the opportunity, but you also need to get paid for your time and talent. I’ve learned the hard way that undervaluing my work not only impacts my financial stability but also sets a precedent that others may exploit. Creating is a beautiful and fulfilling process, but it’s easy to be taken advantage of if you don’t set boundaries and advocate for your worth.

I’ve also realised that valuing yourself isn’t just about you—it helps set the bar for others in the creative industry. If we all stand firm on the value of our work, it encourages a culture where clients recognise and respect that value, and undercutting becomes less common. We collectively contribute to a healthier, more sustainable environment for creatives.

Of course, everyone has to start somewhere, and sometimes you do need to cut deals or take lower-paying jobs to build your portfolio. But I’ve learned that if you’re producing good work, the right clients will see and respect that. It’s up to you, as an artist, to set that standard and uphold it. No one else can do it for you. Valuing yourself isn’t just about money; it’s about respecting your craft and the effort you put into it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rowanfaris.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowannfaris/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowan-faris/

Image Credits

BTS Photo Credits: Megan Adams, Saige Kristian and Rowan Faris