Paul Tackett

I believe in my dream to make movies and content that not only entertains (although this is very valuable) but also inspires, informs, and moves people. Then I want to take that dream and figure out a way to make a living at it, so I can spend all my time on it.
 
What started this dream? 

I always enjoyed just making fun movies, but when I got to college I realized that I could actually make this a realistic career.

While in college, I co-shot a cultural documentary in Tanzania, that had a massive amount of reach and influence (much more than I imagined), and I believe that changed and confirmed the course of my life.
 
What motivates you to follow this dream? 
While shooting the documentary in Tanzania, I experienced true adventure. We lived with tribes, danced, celebrated, and feasted with them. We explored the entire country. Then, after it was all over, it was just the beginning. We had a movie.

It premiered at a theater with over 1,000 people at its first viewing, breaking all sorts of fire safety codes. Later on, Facebook even used part of it in an ad campaign. It was wildly successful for what it was. But what really mattered is what I realized in the process. I can share my experiences and perspectives with the world, and people actually want to see it and it inspires them to go after their own adventures.

After the screening, hundreds of people signed up for similar trips offered by the university. These trips were with non-profits, and sold at cost for opportunities to experience something new and exciting in other countries, and perhaps learn and gain new perspectives in the process. 

I saw the avenue of influence that media creates, and because of that, I want to be one of those influencers in the world by sharing stories.


What are your goals? 
I'm constantly re-evaluating my goals. It seems to change every year. My current goal is to continue developing my skills in cinematography and to learn the business, all while launching a career by making more content. 

My long-term goal is to be creating, in some form, for the rest of my life. 

 
What would you like people to know and where can we find you? 
I love the quote by Steve Jobs that says, "The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do." No dream is too big. Don't waste your time. Go after it.
You can find me by searching for Paul Tackett on any social media site. Also my reel and portfolio is at www.paulztackett.com.

Thank you for taking the time to hear what I have to say. Go after your goals, never give up on your dream, and make it a reality each day by taking little steps at a time.

---