Transparency Note from Carlos:
The filmmaking industry is a tough business to excel in as a modern day filmmaker.
Tough, 15 years ago would mean not having the resources like cameras, lighting equipment, editing & writing software and talent to make your movie and to stand out.
Now that gear, cameras and software are more accessible than ever the industry has maneuvered its barrier of entry.
Now that anyone can essentially be a filmmaker from the advancement of social media and apps that allow for creative expression, creativity alone may no longer be the recipe to move to the next level or to be Selected.
So what does this have to do with the title of this blog, "Not Selected"...?
Well, unfortunately failure is still the necessary recipe in order to succeed.
I've been struggling with this everyday realization of "not selected". In fact, there are moments every day where you are not selected for many reasons that are just and unjust.
The truth is not selected is just the mask that rejection is wearing at that moment. I think that is why it hurts. Rejection in any field will show you more about yourself than winning any award will do.
Make that make sense? Winning awards validate all that you went through to make it to that pivotal moment. It also creates a dopamine hit that will suggest that the cavalry is coming and there is nowhere but up from here.
However rejection is an introspective mirror that will transport you back to every moment in your life that you experienced rejection. That's a scary sequence if you haven't been able to conquer the fear or let down of rejection.
My thoughts that I leave you with today are don't quit and don't stay down too long. You are human and you are a talent that God created. Your purpose will unfold and will be shown to the world.
To be very clear, I wasn't angry or felt wronged in any way. I actually felt a bit down but rejection is the necessary ingredient in your journey and although it looks and feels like a "no", "you're not good enough" remember it is only temporary. Do not quit and continue to get better at your craft. If there is no seat at the table....THEN CREATE YOUR OWN
"All glory to God and peace on your filmmaking journey"
Carlos Bradley is an Atlanta based filmmaker, and the founder and President of the Society for Cinematographers of Color. His work can be seen on network digital platforms, and in various publications. Be sure to follow him on Twitter and Instagram and reach out — "I love meeting new filmmakers!"
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