Daily Inspiration: Meet Camila Cornelsen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Camila Cornelsen

Hi Camila, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Since I was a kid, I’ve always been drawn to visual storytelling. Growing up in Brazil, I was surrounded by vibrant culture and diversity that inspired me to see the world from so many unique perspectives. My father is a photographer, and my mom, a producer who loved making collages. I used to tag along with him on shoots—that’s where my love for images and narratives truly began.

My career officially started in photography and cinematography, but it took a detour through civil engineering—people who work with me often get to see my ‘nerdy’ side! Over time, I found my own voice in directing and cinematography, where I could blend technical skill with emotional depth. I’ve been lucky to work on a wide range of projects, from narrative films to commercials and music videos, always aiming to balance artistic expression with the client’s vision.

Moving to the U.S. opened new doors for me, and I’m grateful to have collaborated on campaigns for global brands and creative projects that resonate with audiences everywhere. Today, I co-run Five by Two with my partner, where we’re all about creating narrative-driven content that combines artistry with accessibility. Each step of this journey has taught me something new, and I’m excited to keep pushing boundaries in visual storytelling.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s definitely not always been a smooth road! Freelancing is a bit of a rollercoaster—one day, you’re juggling multiple projects, and the next, you’re waiting for the phone to ring. In those quieter times, I’ve learned the importance of keeping passion projects alive; they not only keep me inspired but often lead to even better paid opportunities down the line.

I’ve also had quite a few twists and turns in my career path. I started in civil engineering, then moved to photography, became the singer in a band, DJing in a drag party, and even hosted a radio show for a while. Each of these detours taught me something valuable and broadened my perspective. I’ve come to realize that every experience is an opportunity, even if it’s unexpected. The key is to stay open to what life throws your way and see the possibilities within it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a cinematographer and director specializing in visual storytelling that combines artistic depth with emotional resonance. My work spans narrative films, commercials, music videos, and editorials, and I’m known for my ability to balance technical precision with an artistic, human touch that makes each project feel both powerful and accessible.

My journey into visual storytelling actually began with photography, where I first worked with large-format film cameras. There’s an artistry and craft in shooting on film—everything is so manual and intentional. I love bringing that analog, hands-on feeling into my work, even as I experiment with new technologies and gadgets. It creates a unique texture and depth that I think comes through in the final piece.

Music is also a huge part of my creative process. Having been a singer in a band, a DJ, and a radio host, I developed a strong sense of how music shapes emotion. That experience is central to the way I direct films; I’m always thinking about how sound and visuals interplay to tell a more layered story. I’m especially proud of projects where I’ve managed to bring these influences together—melding sound, image, and storytelling in a way that resonates on a deeper level.

Growing up in Brazil and working internationally has also given me a unique perspective that I weave into my work. Whether I’m shooting a big campaign or a more intimate narrative, my goal is to create visuals that feel authentic and universally relatable.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Personally, I’d love to transition more into directing fiction. As a cinematographer, I’ve had the chance to shoot four feature films and two TV shows for Disney+ and HBO, and now I’m excited to bring my own stories to life as a director. There’s such a demand for narratives that reflect diverse backgrounds and experiences, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that wave.

Outside the industry, I also dream of opening a shop featuring Brazilian ceramics and design objects, complete with a coffee corner serving pão de queijo (any investors reading this?). There’s something about the hands-on artistry of ceramics that really connects with my work—a craft rooted in the analog, tactile process. I think it would be a refreshing creative outlet alongside film, and who knows? Maybe there’s a way to blend both worlds.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.camilacornelsen.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/camilacornelsen

Image Credits
All photos are mine.