Meet Darius Lyles

We had the good fortune of connecting with Darius Lyles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darius, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
This business has taught me is that you are only as good as your network. Also there is a premium on accountability and reliability.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I began shooting at a young age, my father always had cameras around, both stills and video. This helped foster my love for the photographic and cinematic arts. After graduating from high school, I attended Howard University, obtaining my Bachelor of Arts degree in Film. Post-graduation, I began working for a small production company in Washington, DC. This experience solidified one, I never want to work in an office, and two, I want my own film production business. Filmmatic Studios, a full-service Film Production Company, was birthed in the Fall of 2016. Our body of work encompasses narrative, documentary, television, and commercials. We promote Black Excellence in all that we do, and look to further align ourselves with organizations and companies that identify with this principal.

My passion for the photographic and cinematic arts is what has been my guide and refugee over the past three decades. The path of the artist is not always easy to navigate, there are sacrifices and compromises that must be made for the sake of the art. You will sacrifice sleep, outings with friends or family, your days will be long, and sometimes the pay will not always match the effort, initially. There is limitless accountability, coupled with a fuller responsibility to yourself, your craft, and the art. The investment is far beyond monetary, requiring a deep dedication to your passion, and the ability to <i>hustle and flow</i> as you grow your body of work. Although my journey has taught me a myriad of things about the industry itself and my craft, one of the most valuable lessons I have learned is the extension of <i>grace</i>. Unfortunately, in this business, friendships and partnerships do not always mix. You may find yourself in situations or conversations, where your greatest strengths become your greatest challenge. To find success in this industry, your internal motivation must remain high, your network must be strong, and your skill set needs to be diverse.

This year, I am super excited for the release of a few documentary projects I have been working on over the past three years. To date, my biggest project has been the documentary, “Kings From Queens: The Run DMC Story” which premiered and is currently streaming on Peacock. Additionally, I am an ambassador for DC’s premier virtual studio space IDEAPlex, opening Summer 2024. IDEAPlex is a virtual production space, providing artists a valuable resource for their creative ventures.

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.
Washington DC is a melting pot, a full serving of culture, creativity, politics, and history. As a resident of over 20 years, one of the most nostalgic locations we would visit is Historic U St. There is so much richness and color in this corridor of the city. We would visit some of the most iconic venues of the strip, The Lincoln Theatre, Ben’s Chili Bowl, and since we won’t be far, a short stop to the campus of Howard University. Washington DC has some of the best museums and they are free, all day every day! We would take a stroll at The Wharf, which is situated on the Potomac River, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. As the day turns into afternoon, we may take a quick trip to Nationals Park, or bike along the trail of the Anacostia River. For dinner, we are definitely hitting up L’Ardente, which for my money has the some of the best Italian food in the city. DC nightlife is equal to its daytime offering, providing something for every vibe and groove. In the summer, the Watergate Hotel’s rooftop has some of the best views of the city and monument.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I attribute my success in part to having a supportive mother and father, who afforded me the opportunity to pursue my interests. I would like to thank my parents, family, and friends for their continued love and support. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege to work with several talented individuals, Jimmy Jenkins is someone that I would like to include in my shoutout. I accredit Mr. Jenkins for collaborating with me on my first major project as Director of Photography, in the documentary ‘Basketball County: It’s in the Water,” currently streaming on Showtime.

Website: https://ideaplexdc.com/

Instagram: @filmmaticstudios

Image Credits
Kenny Urriga Darius Lyles Yves Francis Wilson Gabriel Stephen