The Interview Q&A

Where are you primarily based out of?

Tulsa, OK

What role do you typically play on set?

Cinematographer/1st AC/Camera Department

How long have you been working in the film industry? Where did you get your start?

I've been working as a full-time professional in the industry since August of 2022, but have been playing and working in the film space since eighth grade when I used to make and edit music videos for fun to put on YouTube.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've encountered and how have you overcome them?

Saying a full and resounding YES to your dreams is terrifying. It's a beautiful, inspiring, and fun dream when it's a distant goal that you think about as you move through life, but as soon as you start to turn your dream into reality fear and doubt creep in. For me, I was able to push through those feelings by 1) taking action and completing measurable strides in the direction of my goals and 2) realizing that even though it might feel scary, there is nothing I would rather pursue than my wildest and biggest dreams. My soul would just feel unsettled if I didn't at least try!

Who is your biggest inspiration? What have they taught you?

This is the hardest question on the page for me! So many people that I am blessed to share this life with inspire me in various ways daily -- to enjoy the process, to turn negatives into positives, to not be so hard on myself, to think outside the box, to book the trip, or to pursue a certain project... I could go on. I don't think I can choose just one individual!

What does it mean to you to be an inspiration/mentor to someone else?

This is the hardest question on the page for me! So many people that I am blessed to share this life with inspire me in various ways daily -- to enjoy the process, to turn negatives into positives, to not be so hard on myself, to think outside the box, to book the trip, or to pursue a certain project... I could go on. I don't think I can choose just one individual!

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Coming-of-age movies, color swatches, nature and national parks, old postcards, handwritten journals, art museums, maps... I love anything that evokes a sense of poignant reflection and nostalgia.

If you had one message to share with the world, what would it be?

I love the quote, "keep a little fire burning; however small, however hidden." For me, it speaks to passion, and honoring your unique voice. I want to make films that make people feel inspired, light, and empowered to go forth and live in the light of their own beautiful fires.

What’s are some of the biggest things you’ve accomplished in your career so far?

In 2018, I won a Student Emmy for a documentary I directed and co-lensed about a Habitat for Humanity build in Guatemala. In 2019, I lived and worked in New York City pursing a film internship between semesters in college. In 2021, I made my 9th independent project (combination of short films and short documentaries made independently or through my coursework). And in 2022, I went full-time freelance!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? (No dream is too big!)

In 5 years, I see myself continuing to hone my craft and finding my voice behind the lens. I see that manifesting in DPing short films (perhaps even a feature by then) and maybe joining the IATSE Local 600 and working up through the various roles of the camera department union.

If you had one piece of advice for a woman who wants to get started in the film industry what it would be?

Identify just a single action item you can take right now that would be enjoyable/stoke your soul's fire/take you closer to your goals. Do it. Feel proud. Repeat!

What does being a part of The Women in Film Project mean to you?

I am so grateful for communities in an industry that can feel lonely and daunting at the start, and The Women in Film Project helps women in this industry connect to likeminded people, feel inspired to take action on their dreams, and feel the warmth and energy of being a part of something larger than themselves!