We were lucky to catch up with Zack Francis recently and have shared our conversation below.
Zack, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?
My first client was a friend from highschool who was pursuing music. I had told him that I was also trying to pursue another art for which was film making. I told him that I would do his music videos for free to not only help a friend out but to also learn where I stood on my ability to create visuals.
Once I filmed that video and saw his expression of excitement, I fell in love with the feeling of seeing someone invested in what I made and making them escape reality.
It wasn’t until about 4 years later of doing free projects and practicing on my craft every waking second that I finally got a paid gig. It was for another music video and at first it felt wrong to take the money. I just loved to create art so it was foreign to me but it was also this feeling of gratitude and relief that I had finally gotten to a place where someone wanted to pay for my product.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
The path to becoming a filmmaker for me was not born out of a desire for fame or a fascination with the technicalities of filmmaking. It was, in many ways, a lifeline—a way to navigate through the darkest period of my life. During a time when I was battling severe depression, I often found myself retreating into the worlds created by others. Films became more than just entertainment; they were sanctuaries.
The one that struck a chord with me the most was the “Star Wars” saga, particularly the story of Anakin Skywalker. His journey—his internal conflict, his fear of loss, and his eventual tragic downfall—mirrored the turmoil I felt within myself. Anakin’s fear of losing the one person he loved was something I deeply understood. It was this emotional resonance that kept me tethered to his story, feeling as though his struggle was, in many ways, my own.
In the midst of my depression, I decided to make a short film. It wasn’t just about creating something; it was about expressing the inexpressible, giving a voice to the pain and confusion I couldn’t articulate any other way. It was the first time I felt a sense of release, a way to channel the weight I carried for so many years into something tangible, something others could see and, perhaps, understand. Many people judged my film as it was a bit too personal and graphic, but there were a selective few that told me they understood and the film made them feel a sense of relief that someone had their same struggles.
That experience was transformative. It made me realize that filmmaking could be more than just a personal escape—it could be a way to reach others who might be going through their own battles. I wanted to give back what films had given me: a refuge, a connection, and a sense of not being alone. My goal as a filmmaker is to create worlds and stories where people can find solace, even if just for a moment. I want to craft characters and narratives that resonate on a deep, emotional level, offering viewers an escape from their reality, just as films continue to do for me.
In the end, it’s about creating an experience, where people can see a part of themselves in the stories I tell, and perhaps, find a little bit of hope, healing, or understanding along the way.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Definitley networking and Social media are effective strategies for growing my clientele.
Networking, for me, has always been about building genuine connections rather than just trying to get a job. I’ve found that attending film festivals has been invaluable. These settings provide an opportunity to meet like-minded professionals, share ideas, and discuss potential collaborations. I make it a point to engage in meaningful conversations, listen to others’because at the end of the day, we are all expressing who we are in art. Over time, these interactions have often led to referrals, collaborations, and long-term professional relationships. It’s not just about who you know, but how well you know them and how you can support each other’s growth.
On the other hand, social media has been a game-changer in terms of reaching a broader audience. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn allow me to showcase my work, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage with both industry professionals and potential clients.
By combining the personal touch of networking with the expansive reach of social media, I’ve been able to grow my clientele in a way that feels organic and sustainable. Both strategies reinforce each other—networking helps me build deep, lasting relationships, while social media amplifies my voice and allows me to connect with people I might not have otherwise met. Together, they’ve been instrumental in establishing and expanding my career as a filmmaker.
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
Four years ago, I had the chance to meet my business partner, Braden Timmons, while working on a fan film that we were both involved in. Braden was doing a favor for the director by stepping in as an actor, while I had been hired as the cinematographer and editor. Initially, we exchanged casual conversations, but as the days went by, we found ourselves connecting on a deeper level. We discovered a shared passion for writing scripts and storytelling, which sparked an immediate bond between us.
Braden was looking for someone who could help him bring the visuals of his film ideas to life. After seeing the quality of my work on that project, he invited me to collaborate on his first original short film, “Sally.” It was a moment of great honor for me because it validated all the time and effort I had poured into studying and practicing filmmaking. His trust in my abilities meant the world to me, as it showed that my dedication hadn’t gone unnoticed.
What started as a professional connection soon blossomed into me finding my bestfriend. Braden and I realized we shared not only similar interests in filmmaking but also many interests outside of it. He became more than just a business partner; he became like a brother to me. I never imagined that I would find someone with whom I could collaborate so seamlessly, and at the same time, forge such a meaningful personal bond.
Looking back, meeting Braden was one of those moments that changed the course of my career and my life. Our partnership has been built on mutual respect, shared creativity, and a deep understanding of each other’s strengths. Together, we’ve been able to bring our visions to life, and I’m grateful every day for the journey we’re on.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tallstoryfilm.wixsite.com/mysite
- Instagram: Zackdionne25
- Linkedin: Zack Dionne
- Youtube: Zack Dionne
Image Credits
Gian Mancini, Mike Chibante, Don Murphy