Today we’d like to introduce you to Dirk Braun
Hi Dirk, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always been inspired and captivated by a sense of adventure that has evolved into a successful filmmaking & photography career. One of my first jobs that inspired his path was working at an independent movie rental before studying film in college, a time when I also was producing film premieres, fashion shows, and concerts. After receiving a degree in film from the University of Colorado Boulder, I launched Red Mtn Productions in Aspen, Colorado and directed commercials and campaigns for a list of reputable brands. During the filming of the feature length film he wrote, directed, and produced titled FLYING BOAT, I learned to fly airplanes, received my pilot license, and have continued a life of filmmaking, photography, and aviation. FLYING BOAT is streaming on all United Airlines, Emirates Airlines, Korean Air flights as well as on Amazon Prime (streaming & DVD). My large scale, limited edition photographs are displayed in public & private spaces around the world and DIRK BRAUN gallery was opened in 2022 in Malibu, CA. The gallery is currently displaying work from Tahiti based underwater photographer Ben Thouard, who was the only photographer in the water at the 2024 Summer Olympics at Teahupo’o, Tahiti and I made an 8 minute minute film about him titled “End Of The Road”.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
On the perpetual quest of taking photographs and making films, there are endless amounts of obstacles to overcome and they are often unexpected. Securing locations can be difficult, weather conditions unpredictable, and numerous other unforeseen issues can arise. Each project demands a balance between meticulous preparation and the ability to adapt as things come together naturally.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a photographer, I am primarily focused on capturing images related to surfing and water, tennis, and aviation and these photographs I offer in large-scale limited edition prints. I also work as a fashion photographer and love to capture varying emotions of people in a variety of settings.
In filmmaking, I make documentary films that delve in to captivating subjects. My feature film FLYING BOAT explores the lives of a handful of pilots and mechanics still flying and maintaining the last remaining examples of the Grumman Albatross, a venerable seaplane from a long lost era of adventure and romance. This film started with my fascination with this aircraft after it was introduced to me through a friend when I was 18 years old. This enduring interest led to the extensive pursuit of making the film. A short film that is currently on YouTube titled END OF THE ROAD, offers a glimpse into renowned underwater photographer Ben Thouard’s daring dives beneath towering waves, capturing both the breathtaking beauty of his photographs and the supportive community that surrounds him leading up to the debut of surfing at Teahupo’o, Tahiti, French Polynesia in the 2024 Olympics.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Something relative to my career path and is a time that I cherished was working at a local movie rental throughout high school. It was by working here that I was able to watch many movies which ultimately lead to me becoming a filmmaker. My mother inspired my interest in watching many films as well as exposing me to the world of photography.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.DIRKBRAUNgallery.com
- Instagram: @dirkbraungallery
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/dirkbraungallery
Image Credits
personal photo: @ Steve Mundinger
