Member Spotlight: Kindled Films
Meet kindled films
We’re excited to introduce you to Tristan Shannon, Owner of Kindled Films, one of our talented St. Louis wedding videographers and featured member of The Collective. We recently connected with him and have shared our conversation below.
Can you tell us about the service(s) you offer and how you got your start?
Kindled Films specializes in capturing adventurous, authentic, and story-driven filmic weddings. Kindled Films started in 2018 after I accepted that working a desk wasn't for me. Having a friend in the wedding industry, Batchelor Photography, I quickly learned the ins and outs of turning my hobby into my career.
What makes you + your business unique?
I love working with adventurous, authentic, and alternative couples. Whether you're in St. Louis or taking a plane to your destination, I am ready to capture the biggest moments to the smallest detail.
Can you share a bit about why you choose to do what you do?
There are countless precious moments that get missed during a wedding day. Mixing my love for capturing stories and working personally with passionate people has kept me coming back to weddings year after year. Telling stories has become who I am and who I want to continue to be!
How would your clients describe working with you?
My couples have always seen working with me as easy-going, flexible, fun, and inviting! Across the years, I'm thankful to have been able to impact so many people just by being authentic and true to myself; I believe my couples can see that from top to bottom!
Tell us about a big lesson that you've learned while in your industry.
The biggest lesson I've learned in my time working weddings is to be communicative. Having an open dialogue with your wedding filmmaker from the first text/email to delivering the videos is the easiest way to build trust with your couples and provide the base for a great working relationship!
We all have favorite wedding moments. Can you share with us some of your favorites?
One of my favorite moments ever was when the couple ordered Taco Bell for everyone and wheeled in a big cart. I also can't fail to mention one of my wedding clips going viral- that was pretty memorable. Another top wedding moment would have to be when I booked my first out of state wedding. I traveled to New Orleans to film during a hurricane! Even after the power went out, everyone came together to still make it a great night.
Who was your most memorable wedding/couple and why?
My most memorable wedding couple is impossible to choose. I've had a Halloween themed couple, a New Orleans hurricane couple, a DND themed couple, a horror themed couple.. the list goes on!
If you could give advice to your past self or someone starting new, what would you say?
I would advise myself to be open to the idea that gear doesn't necessarily make the art, the artist does.
What is something that you really excel at when it comes to your business? Can you share a tip?
When it comes to me and my business, I have stellar client communication. It’s crucial to be transparent and upfront with any questions or concerns clients might have.
What is an achievement you're most proud of?
My greatest achievement for myself is deciding I was going to live with complete authenticity. Being myself regardless of where I am, who I'm with, or what I'm doing. I decided to love being me, and that's a big deal!
Any random, off the wall fun fact you care to share with us?
My fun fact is that I love doing card tricks!
We loved learning more about Kindled Films and are thrilled to have them in The Collective. Be sure to give them a follow!
Instagram: Kindled Films
Website: www.kindledfilms.com