Getting out of the military wasn’t just tough—it felt like losing everything I knew.
When I got injured and couldn’t serve anymore, my purpose was gone in an instant. I came home and nothing felt the same. My wife left, taking my daughter with her, and I’m still fighting to see her. At 26, I hit rock bottom and almost didn’t make it.
I could’ve been one of the 22 veterans who take their own life every day. But God stepped in. He gave me a new purpose—cinematography.
Finding a New Mission
Look, I’m not here to sugarcoat anything. I still have bad days. I still wake up with night terrors, and I’m lucky to get 4-5 hours of sleep a night. But having something to focus on—something I love—makes all the difference.
When I started working on production sets, it felt like being back in the military. There’s structure, discipline, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. On set, you’re part of a family. And let me tell you, that family can give you hope when you feel like you’ve got none.
Whether you’re behind the camera or in front of it, there’s a place for you in this industry. Instead of carrying a rifle, you’re holding a tool to create something incredible—a film, a commercial, a story that matters.
Veterans in Production
That’s why I started Veterans in Production (VIP)—to give vets like us a chance to learn, connect, and work in film. It’s a community where we’ve got each other’s backs, just like we did in the service.
If you’re looking for work, my company, Light Inside Cinema, is here for you. We focus on corporate commercials, and we only hire veterans for those shoots. You’re not just helping us—we’re helping each other.
Tools to Get You Started
I also want to introduce you to Cast and Crew Productions. They own Final Draft, the go-to screenwriting software for Hollywood writers, and Coverfly, an online community where writers get feedback and connect. To help one of you get started, we’re giving away a free copy of Final Draft—a $250 value.
You can enter to win here: https://woorise.com/lightinsidecinema/vip
If you’ve never written a script before, don’t worry. I’ll help you. I’ll show you how to take your ideas and turn them into something real.
Join Our Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/WkBJxhR6pemfgtJz/
You’re Not Alone
If you’re a veteran or still serving, hear me when I say this: You are not alone. I know it’s hard. I know what it’s like to feel like everything’s been ripped away. But I also know there’s hope.
Film gave me a reason to keep going, and I believe it can do the same for you. Join our Facebook group, Veterans in Production, and let’s build something together.
To the companies out there reading this—reach out. We’d love to partner with you on your next project.
We’re a family, and we need each other. Let’s create something amazing. Let’s practice and create.
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