So this is it, huh? Jaw-dropping sunsets and more friendships than I know what to do with?
Counting my many many many blessings. And to think, this wasn't how I planned it out at all.
me every night for some reason
What more is there to say about our collective war with phone addiction? Will we ever be able to shrug off the temptation to escape into trivial entertainment or anxiously fixate on the endless injustices happening around the world?
Our modern struggle against our own desires isn't new. In Romans 7, Paul investigates a dynamic that every Christian (and self-aware person) wrestles with: why do I keep on sinning? If I know what’s good and right, what keeps bringing me back to behavior that I know is detrimental to me and others? Rather than suggest a psychological hack or a command to simply be better, Paul points to the only one who can truly redeem, comfort, and fulfill a sinner: “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!"
New VFX reel! A little peak behind the curtain.
My last visual effects reel was made in 2023. At that time, AI Will Smith could not convincingly eat spaghetti. Now, in 2025, he can. Will I be out of a job soon? I don't believe so. Here's why:
Even before AI was part of the conversation, visual effects have often been looked down upon within the film industry. A less-desirable means to an end. A copout or a cheat code. As generative AI tools develop and populate our feeds, I think it's important to highlight the very human decisions and taste behind my work. Though I'm not entirely against using AI to automate certain tasks, AI can never replace artistic intent and interpretation, something digital effects have always had. "How does this creature move?" "Where is the light coming from in this scene?" "What are the shapes and contours of this spaceship?" Whether those decisions are made through traditional tools or through prompting, the decisions have to be made. Traditional tools force the artist to make a decision, while prompting allows them to give the reigns over to the AI model should the artist choose to not define their vision.
So then we must ask: does the amount of human decision and intent affect the quality and purpose of the art we consume? I know my answer. We humans are made in the image of God. An algorithm can never know and speak to our deepest desires better than our fellow man, fallible may we be. As you watch this montage of VFX shots of mine, remember that behind all the compositing and raytracing is a fella like me. Flesh and blood and spirit.
A special thank you to the many filmmakers who have given me the opportunity to help you tell stories on screens of all sizes. Cinema is a powerful medium that I love dearly, and it's an honor to grow alongside other artists. Not just in scope or spectacle, but in craft and depth of storytelling. It is truly a joy to make art for a living. Let's keep showing these tech bros and algorithms that moving pictures are about much, much more than measurable engagement or a bottom line.
Stills from "All I Know"
Shot this super guerrilla style, with just me behind the camera and Payton running (and skating) all over town. Almost no lighting equipment was used, but there is intentionality in the framing and blocking. Nothing spectacular from a cinematography standpoint, but for me, it's some of my best ༼ •́ ͜ʖ •̀ ༽
Link to the full music video in my bio!
Consider giving her a watch if you haven't already 🤠
We made a music video! Link in bio!
Music (like all of it): @paytonandersonn
Video (like all of it): 👋🤠
Been chipping away at this in the background for MONTHS. I've always wanted to make a music video, so I'm grateful that Payton trusted me to do it for this underrated banger. It's turned out to be one of the most creatively fulfilling things I've ever directed.
Also shout-out to Tanner, @evanbarnett34 , and Kaysen for playing the hype squad.
Today, in honor of Jordan leaving for South Korea in a few weeks, we visited the tallest waterfall on the planet.
Full of sleep-deprived goofs, huffing/puffing, and an important announcement during the communal outdoor urination sesh. Loved living with these dudes and blessed to cap it off with a final little trip to AR.
