Inspiring Conversations with Jacob Dean

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Dean.

Jacob, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started out in the music world. Playing guitar since the young age of seven years old. I played in many of Los Angeles music venues. From spikes bar in Rosemead, CA to House of Blues Hollywood. My dad (Dave Gambler) paved the way for me showing me the crazy world of rock n roll, practice, and the vision of working for something bigger. Being around musicians and creatives was normal and diving deeper into the music scene, I realized my passion for production. From stage lighting, recording, performing and live sound. I loved it all. There wasn’t a thing I didn’t look at when I would play or go to shows. The soundboards, engineers, musicians, and overall energy put towards creating and experience. It was ALWAYS what I looked forward too. As I got older, I attended musicians institute in Hollywood graduating from the guitar craft academy. Learning to build and repair guitars. One of the single best experiences I ever had.

After graduation, I worked at a guitar shop named Eden Guitars working in the repair and setup department. Alongside my boss Todd and co-worker Sergio, Two people with an amazing passion for music and creating. One year into the job, I ended up taking photos and videos for the company. Honing my skills and shooting music videos for bands and working on promotion content outside of work. After a while there, I moved on to working for a production company. Shooting content for various industries and doing freelance work, I progressed in ways I never thought I would. Working alongside guys like Phil Clackler, who’s work ethic and ideas for creating really pushed me to want and be more. A true blessing to be surrounded by people who had the same vision as me. Now fast forward years later, I am a freelance content creator. Working with companies such as UFC Gym, Rosin Technologies, Aacres clothing and many more. It is the best feeling in the world to create from scratch and push my creative boundaries. It is what makes living and working all around Los Angeles so inspiring… There are so many opportunities and people looking to get to the next level. From meeting guys like my friend Travis(Macedo Media) an amazing music video creator to working with Jason Carter(General Manager for UFC Gym Rosemead). My success wouldn’t be where it’s at without the people around me that strive for greatness.

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?
It has not been a smooth road. Working in this industry is truly all about communication. The “vision” most people have requires a lot of different resources. From locations and equipment to post-production editing. It all takes a lot of time and understanding in what is needed. At the beginning, I said yes to any project that came my way. Later realizing I would spread myself thin and needed help in creating these bigger productions. Having the knowledge and equipment is where the “struggle” came in. I knew a lot of people but how I saw things in my mind weren’t always translating in my photos/video. I wanted the best, no exceptions. Once and I started learning and obtaining the right equipment things got much easier. I didn’t worry so much in talking about prices and how to make it all happen.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I direct and create content for companies, bands, and artists. I’m known for my short-form content creation. What sets me apart from others is my creative process. I strive to bring an experience and my best foot forward at all times. Being able to provide custom music, video and photos.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I would definitely recommend getting a mentor. BUT the real truth is surrounding yourself with motivated and inspiring individuals. People that have their own goals to reach but speak to you in ways that help you grow in your own way. I didn’t have a mentor, but I had the drive to learn and never stop learning. I took courses, read articles and watched a lot of informative videos. I also did a lot of free work. It’s the fastest clear-cut way to get from point A to B. Your mistakes are the road bumps. How fast you learn is how fast you get over them.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: jacobdeanfilms.com
• Instagram: jacobdeanfilms_

Image Credits:
Victoria Lopez Photography for brick wall photo and white shirt photo