Meet Kaelin | Filmmaker
We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaelin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kaelin, how do you think about risk?
The trajectory of my life changed when I started taking risks. I’ve always been extremely reserved and shy, mostly due to the fear of failure and rejection. When I stopped letting that hold me back and started taking risks, a whole new world opened up for me. It’s what got me on a flight to France by myself to work at the Cannes Film Festival (my first time out of the country), it’s what gave me the confidence to walk the red carpet at the Golden Globes, it’s what helped me land my first job. Fear is going to be there every time you take a big risk – but it will always be worth it knowing that you took a chance and put yourself out there.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I currently work in documentary film and television as an archival producer. It’s my job to research, source, manage, and license all of the archival materials needed for a documentary (photos, news footage, articles, stock footage, social media posts, and more). I never knew this job existed until I stumbled upon it! I went to film school to pursue a degree in film production and a lifelong dream to become an editor. I interned at a production company that ended up hiring me as a post production assistant once I graduated – but then immediately Covid hit, and we had to come up with a creative and safe way to finish our show while production was virtually impossible. That’s when I started working very closely with our show’s archival producer, and the rest is history! She took me under her wing and introduced me to a new and exciting role intertwined with history and creativity. I’ve now been working in the industry for 5+ years on award winning shows for Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime, Paramount, Frontline, Disney+/ESPN, and more. Working in the film and entertainment industry is not easy – I’ve learned it takes passion, preservenence, and grit. The connections you make along the way are essential to your survival, and of course, don’t be afraid to take risks!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a Burbank local, it’s a must to stop for dinner and drinks at the Smokehouse. It’s an iconic Hollywood landmark that has served countless celebrities and is located directly across from Warner Bros. Studios. My brother is a professional magician and member of the Magic Castle, so of course we’d go out for a night of mystery and excitement! West Hollywood is the best place to go dancing with friends. Maybe we’d take a day trip up to Port Hueneme, a small beach town outside of Oxnard/Ventura that has the best fish and chips stand!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Everything I’ve accomplished and everything that I am is because of my mom and dad. They have worked their entire lives and given me all of their support so that I can live my dreams. To the people who have guided me throughout my educational and professional career – it can be scary as a young person going out into the world and I would not be where I am now without your kindness and mentorship. Special shoutout to Diego Tapia for nominating me!
Image Credits
Steve Lynch
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
