Local artist profile: Ethan Collins

THIS week we chat with emerging young filmmaker Ethan Collins, who credits Hebron Films’ Caleb Maxwell as a major influence on his budding career, explaining that his unwavering motivation, support and teachings are the reason he is where he is today.

What initially motivated you to take up filmmaking?

Since primary school I’ve loved everything about film.

My parents would show me a movie if I did a project about the content, so I spent days learning about sharks (for example) just so I could watch Jaws.

Also, during primary school, I started my creative journey making videos of me unboxing my family’s new tech to post on YouTube, and that was where my obsession began.

How would you describe your filmmaking style?

I’ve always loved designing and being creative (and) I’ve always felt like I strive in making something look appealing from a customer’s perspective.

Following that path has led me to working on projects for local businesses, creating video(s) that appeal to their audience.

Which other filmmakers inspire you?

Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, Stanley Kubrick (as well as) the local creatives I’ve connected with.

Henry Sheahan does some amazing things (for example).

He was a producer and all-rounder at Hebron Films and introduced me to the world of creative video for businesses.

What are some particular highlights you have from your career so far?

I’ve only just started getting involved in bigger and bigger projects working for Hebron Films.

I remember at the very start of my career the first project I did was a video for Emporium Creative Hub.

That was massive for me (and) was the turning point where I realised that video was what I wanted to pursue as a career.

Since then I’ve started my own business, ZEROSIX Video Production.

It was daunting but I landed a gig for Earlybird Espresso, an awesome little coffee shop in Kangaroo Flat.

That really helped me build up my confidence to go and shoot with LaTrobe University, which I’ve recently wrapped up.

Have you had any mentors who’ve helped you in your career?

About two years ago I began with a week of work experience alongside the Hebron Team and that’s where everything kicked off.

When the week ended, I felt like I was missing something I knew I’d love.

I started calling Caleb (Maxwell) asking if he had (more) work for me.

At the time, I had nothing to show an employer that I knew what I was doing.

Regardless, Caleb invested a huge amount of time and money into helpingme develop my skills.

Caleb’s unwavering motivation, support and teachings are the reason I’m where I am today.

How can people check out your work online?

I don’t currently have any finished projects publicly viewable, but you can check out some BTS on my Instagram, @zerosixvideo.

Do you have any big jobs coming up?

I just wrapped up production for LaTrobe University.

Aside from that, I’m actively working on the production of some social content for Dark & Stormy Barber Co.

What would you say to young regional aspiring filmmakers who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Just get involved. Whether it’s doing work experience or reaching out to businesses like Hebron and giving them a bit of background on who you are, what you do, and why you want to do it.

The other alternative is to jump straight into doing your own stuff! If you don’t know where to start, the best thing you can do is build a portfolio.