We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nate Riedel. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Nate, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
This past year I dove head first into film photography. I had a concept for a photo series that eventually became my book “Every Image A Prayer.” Planning, shooting, and traveling while making that book has really brought me joy. It was a nice change of medium – going from motion video to stills photography, and I’m excited to continue learning.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a freelance director and cinematographer.
I primarily work on corporate videos and commercials, but occasionally I make documentaries and narrative films. Right now I have a film on the festival circuit called “Brick by Brick.” The film is a comedic sports documentary about a local college women’s soccer team stepping up to save a basketball program. We have soccer superstar Alex Morgan narrate the film, which adds to the San Diego community focus of the documentary.
Another fun project I just finished is the photo book “Every Image A Prayer,” a meandering pilgrimage across America. It’s a collection of medium format film photographs, short stories, essays, musings – I call them bull****s.
Some pieces from my photo book will be hanging at Coffee & Tea Collective in North Park starting in late February.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I have had so many great mentors in life. My teachers, college professors, and some leaders in film industry, all invested time and went out of their way to help guide me in my career. I am grateful for their generosity and encouragement as I grew in my craft.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I think I was overly concerned with waiting for permission to make things. I was waiting for the perfect amount of money for the project, or feeling like an imposter, or waiting for my “big break.” Now I’m just focused on creating things I like, with people I like.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
The ends do not justify the means.
The means are everything.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. How do you know when you’re out of your depth?
I try to always be a little out of my depth.
I’m having the most fun when I’m learning something new. There is a bit of discomfort with that, but I usually end up growing from it.
Contact Info:
- Website: nateriedelfilm@gmail.com
- Instagram: nateriedelfilm
