Episode 152 - From Childhood Dreams to Filmmaking Success
The first episode in our Young Filmmakers Series. In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, host Matt Chastain chats with Zach Tonkins about his journey in the film industry. They discuss how Zach, with his family's support, pursued his passion for filmmaking from a young age. Starting with attending conferences such as ICFF and Content, Zach networked, volunteered, and gradually moved up, learning both in front and behind the camera. Now at 21, Zach works as a DP and gaffer, notably on projects like 'Adventures in Iggy' with Kirk Cameron. They also delve into Zach's approach to filmmaking, the role of his supportive family, and his choice of real-life learning and networking over traditional college education.
Highlights include:
Bio:
Zach's passion for filmmaking began while helping his parents operate their portrait photography business. While his acting experience began in musical theatre, on film sets Zach is known for his ability to visualize creatively with detailed imagery and tell a story with highly artistic insight. Zach first started his cinematography training at the age of fifteen and has been working as an industry professional since 2021. In addition to being a Christ follower, Zach loves all things film related including acting, directing, camera operating, and learning the latest technology in cinema cameras and virtual production studios while working freelance jobs and ministry projects. Zach continues to build his portfolio through various projects both in front of as well as behind the camera. Zach began acting in 2010 with musical theater. In 2019, he transitioned to film acting in movies, TV, and documentaries. Zach is represented by two agencies: Treasure Coast Talent and Pastorini-Bosby.
Zach on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10342065/?ref_=nmbio_ov_bk
Zach on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zach.tonkin/
Editing by Michael Roth
FAFF July Filmmakers Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/filmmakers-bootcamp
Screenwriting Foundations Class: https://www.faffassociation.com/screenwriting-foundations
FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings
Screenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat
Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V
