“As the chief operating officer of Studio 11 Films, I work closely with our founder and CEO Sharon Tomlinson to shape, implement, and nurture the company’s desire to create a culture that encourages, influences and inspires the progress and achievements of aspiring and seasoned filmmakers, our students, employees and our viewing audiences,” says Cameron H. Miller during a recent interview.
Studio 11 Films is is full-service production company offering cutting edge film and media solutions. They provide an in-house production team of writers, producers, directors and crew. They’re equipped to provide a production office, screening room, casting location, training facility for staff, design and post production. They also provide equipment rental and recommendations based on the need/budget, catering/craft service, marketing, Web design and distribution consultation.
Here, Miller opens up about his relationship with God and where he sees his future in the film industry.
What inspired this career path?
Quite simply it was God. When I was about 18-years-old, I realized my desire and passion to impact the lives of others, through a career in entertainment was a part of something bigger than me. He’s blessed me with many talents, and I believe that sharing these talents with the world is not only a responsibility, but a privilege. I do realize that I still have a way to go and I am willing to remain humble so I can learn and grow to be the best that God has called me to be. I just want to live a life that inspires others to overcome any doubts that they too can be the best that they can be. If I can do that, all of the obstacles along the way will be well worth it.
What advice would you give a young person seeking get to follow your career path?
First, I would say only let my path be proof that your dream is possible, then realize and accept that your path will be very different. The sooner you realize that your path won’t look like anyone else’s, the more open you will be to explore the many possibilities that create the endless opportunities that will come your way. Most likely, they won’t look like what you expected, but embrace them anyway.
Next, I would tell them to determine the purpose for the desire that is calling them to whatever their goals and dreams are. I would tell them that every desire we have to accomplish great things in life should be attached to compassion and a passion for others, and that their drive has to be more than just making a ton of money and balling out of control. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with working and pushing for the money but, when you find the connection between your desires to succeed and your compassion for people, you will enjoy the journey and the money a whole lot more. You see, it’s when you intentionally tap into that connection that you will save yourself time and energy and create momentum, by moving forward in purpose with intention.
Also, I would tell them to make some solid decisions in their mind and hearts, and never give-up, because, the road will be long and tough. You can take a break and you might even need to make some adjustments to your vision and goals, but don’t ever give up on your journey to achieve it. Trust God, trust the process and trust yourself, despite what it looks like. Follow your gut and always believe that you can do it.
Lastly, but equally as important, I would tell them to practice, train, study and always be working on the development of their gifts. One can never practice too much or gain too much knowledge where your passion is concerned. It will only make you stronger and more confident in the long run. We are our biggest enemies and once we overcome the battle of self-doubt, we will realize that we can truly accomplish anything.
What has been your biggest accomplishment thus far?
Accomplishment is such a relative term.
On an internal level, my greatest accomplishment is finding the courage to be unapologetically who I was created to be. On a business level, I am most proud of the impact our film projects have made in the lives of so many people. Whether it’s a ladder of opportunity for someone coming through our film training programs, a young person inspired to make better choices for their lives, or someone finally deciding to love the skin they are in as a result of the work our company has done through television and film.
What has been your most difficult challenge you had to overcome?
For me, I have oftentimes had to battle self-doubt. There have been many moments in my life where I was unsure of my own abilities and talents despite what others told me. My biggest challenge was truly overcoming the detrimental ideas that I was not good enough or that I was not worth it.
Do you feel that it is best to be involved in politics? Why?
Yes, absolutely!
Exercising your right to choose is one of the most powerful things you can do as a human being. Our lives are all reflections of our choices and fortunately politics in America is all about us exercising our superpower of choice. Casting our vote is one of the most important things that any of us can do while we are residents of this country. Yes, the political process is often times disheartening and disappointing but, it is how we shape the culture that helps us to enjoy the abundant experience that living in America is known for and it requires all of our participation.
We must believe that we can make a difference through the political process.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
Wow, the next five years huh? I really should have a solid plan for that, right?
Well, at the moment I am in an expansion phase of what the vision for my life is and I am stepping into arenas that I never expected to be in. If you had asked me this question five years ago, my response would have been totally different than where I am today. I never would have imagined working with such an incredible visionary like Sharon Tomlinson and Studio 11 Films.
I now have a better idea of who I am and my purpose in life. I believe that I will continue to grow in the film industry and become a power producer and respected actor. But, I am most excited about the roles of author and speaker that have been added to my vision. I recently finished writing my first book and tackled my first speaking engagement.
Ultimately, I expect that my life in five years will be a culmination of production days, book tours, speaking engagements, mentoring moments; while continuing to help my son launch into adulthood, and begging my teenage daughter to spend more time with me. I’ve learned to be less concerned about the details of where I’m going to end up and more focused on taking the time to enjoy the journey and being sure to make an impact along the way.
Follow Cameron H. Miller on social media at @cambament or @Studio11films and stay up to date on their projects by visiting www.Studio11Films.com.
