David Brotzman
David’s a Director of Photography and Video Producer building his dreams from Rochester, NY.
David’s journey has a lot to do with what God wants to do through it. Whether it was touring across the country as a drummer, or now, bringing story to life as a DP and Producer, he’s always up for whatever God wants to do next.
Along with his wild faith, he’s also driven by the impact his work can make. At Tones Studios, he works alongside big dreamers and brilliant creatives who are just as motivated to make a positive difference through their lives and through their work.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
I’ve been incredibly blessed to use my talents as the DP and Video Producer at “Tones Studios” in Rochester, NY. I work as a part of a creative team, compiled of some of my best friends in the world, not to mention extraordinarily talented creatives.
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I started out as a professional touring musician on the CCM scene at the age of 17. I quickly realized I wanted a way to capture not only the moments I was lucky enough to experience, but to share the stories of the incredible people I met along the way.
A few strangers, who would later become friends and mentors, saw my work and asked me to join the creative team at “The Father’s House”, in Rochester. This allowed me to transition into video, grow alongside a team of creatives, and find my unique place in the field.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
Had it not been for my faith, I wouldn’t have found myself on the platform I did. I was a drummer touring the CCM circuit at 17. Now, I’m working for a company looking to break ground in the creative industry, striving to let God be known in the marketplace.
I’m also completely aware there are not many aspects of my journey that would exist had I not placed absolute trust in God from the beginning. Now, I’m able to dive further into my gifts every day as a director, filmmaker, photographer, and even studio musician.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
I’m a schedule and goal oriented person who’s comfortable enough to admit that I’m still learning, and always will be.
I strive to push forward knowing that the creative field itself is continuously changing. I try to uphold a healthy balance between viewing other creatives as inspiration (ie. colorist and editors) and steering away from comparison - Understanding we all uniquely create to tell a story one way or another.
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
There are so many aspects of the creative industry that can cause you to doubt your abilities, compare your gifts, or fall into the idea that only the work that gets publicly validated is worth doing.
My greatest lesson and a necessary reminder is - Whether you see it or not, God always has a bigger plan behind the work you do. Especially if you’re unsure how this fits into your “bigger picture.” So, remember - In whatever you find yourself doing, use every opportunity to show the heart of God. You never know where it could lead.