Rising Stars: Meet Andrew Roberts of Filmmaking and Education

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Roberts

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m originally from New Jersey and have been in the entertainment industry for 30 years now. My journey started with a live production but led me to filmmaking. Over the years, I worked my way through various roles, including Production Manager, Technical Director, Grip, Gaffer, Camera, and now Independent Filmmaker. It’s been an incredible ride that pulled me towards education 17 years ago. I realized that I had a lot of knowledge and experience that I wanted to share with the next generation of filmmakers and production professionals. So, I made the transition and have never looked back. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my students grow and develop their own passions and talents.

Since 2016, I’ve been the Director of Film and Media Arts at Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, CA, I oversee the film and television programs. This includes developing the curriculum, teaching classes, and mentoring students and colleagues. I also work on creating opportunities for students to gain real-world experience, whether through projects, internships, or collaborations with industry professionals.

I’m also a founding member of the Independent Filmmakers Guild of America. This organization was created to support and advocate for independent filmmakers across the country. We provide resources, networking opportunities, and a platform for filmmakers to share their work and collaborate. It’s a fantastic community and I’m proud to be a part of it.

Recently I started working with the camera company LUMIX to become a LUMIX Ambassador for Education. It lets me combine my passion for filmmaking with my commitment to teaching. I work with them to bring cutting-edge technology and curriculum to the classroom, ensuring that students have access to the best tools and knowledge available. We worked together to write and create 4 years worth of film and television curriculum that can be used by any instructor to help build or enhance their classes. It’s about inspiring and equipping the next generation of filmmakers to push boundaries and create amazing work.

And of course, I’m a dad first and foremost to the most interesting 9 year old daughter anyone could be lucky to have.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think like any gig in entertainment, smooth roads just don’t exist. But, it’s these bumps that challenge us and let us improve; force us to improve. Over the years as a freelancer it was a hustle. There is no guaranteed income so it’s always “how can I make myself more marketable, what skills do I need to find more work”, and reaching out to those contacts that might be able to help you along the way. Overall, the struggles that I’ve had pale in comparison to some others but, it’s been my support network that has always guided me through the tougher times. And, freelance work is what led me to the greatest gig I’ve had being an educator.

My advice for aspiring filmmakers is to don’t be afraid to stick out your hand and say “Hi, I’m… and I would love to see how we can work together”. And, of course, never stop learning and stay curious. The industry is always evolving, and there’s always something new to discover. You don’t need the latest gear to be a good filmmaker, focus on your art and hone your skills first. Surround yourself with passionate people, don’t be afraid to take risks, and most importantly, tell the stories that matter to you. Don’t be afraid of failure. Try, screw up, and try again; it’s what teaches us the most.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
When I’m not teaching I do work as an independent cinematographer, assistant director, grip, and photographer. In the independent world, I’d say I specialize in gimbal operation and day of show logistics. I’ve always been in some sort of managerial position, even in entertainment, so I naturally gravitate towards those jobs that let me help make the shoot days roll smoother.

When I went to college and even beyond, I never wanted to specialize in a singular track. I always tell my students that being well-rounded means more gigs; be hirable. So I tried to take that philosophy and bring it into my freelance work. Working as an indie AD has been a rewarding experience that allows me to do all of the things I loved about production management on a film set. I work a lot in the indie world with Koa Aloha Media. I started out as a PA and camera assistant and worked my way up to cinematographer and AD. I love the Koa Aloha folks, they’ve become family. And, we created a production team that knows what the other is thinking so actors and crew love working with us because we are super efficient on shoot days. That itself has created some more opportunities for me.

If there was one thing that sets me apart from others though it’s my work as a LUMIX Ambassador. Every camera company has a program focused on it’s creators but LUMIX is the only one I know of that has a specific part of their team focused on education, so, I am (currently) the only education ambassador for LUMIX. Writing curriculum to build new filmmakers and creators is the best job I could have. They been so supportive of my vision and an amazing team to work with. I love seeing the light bulb moments with my students. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness their growth, creativity, and passion. Knowing that I play a small part in shaping their futures and helping them achieve their goals is the best reward I could ask for. Plus, they constantly inspire me with their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Ah luck, it has helped me more times than I can count. I got my first education gig literally by right place – right time. I happened to be working for a client as a lighting designer in the Mount Olive school district in NJ when I was asked if I knew anyone who was interested in becoming the new Technical Director for the district. A couple of interviews later and I began my career in education. That one offhand meeting brought me into the best career I have ever had which in turn led me to Orange County. Now, here I am in California, the department head of a film and TV program, working as an indie filmmaker, and working as a LUMIX Ambassador. No better luck than that!

But, I also think we make our own luck by putting ourselves out there. My gig with LUMIX happened because I approached them at a convention and asked how we could work together. I already exclusively used their gear both personally and through the department, so what kind of opportunities are their to collaborate. A few years later and it’s been the best professional connection I could have made. It’s opened so many more doors for both my school and me personally. And it all happened because I went to their booth, shook some hands, and introduced myself. They could just as easily said no but, luckily, they were focusing on the same things in education that I was.
Now, it’s all about looking forward and building onto the successes and failures I’ve had a long the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ifgamerica.org
• Instagram: @film_photo_teach
• Other: https://koaalohamedia.com