What does it really take to build a creative career from scratch in a new country?
Adrian Rivas is a filmmaker and content creator based in Canada whose work focuses on cinematic travel storytelling and aesthetic-driven visuals. Originally from El Salvador, Adrian moved to Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic and began building his creative career while studying mechanical engineering.
Through social media, he shares visually rich content capturing nature, mountains, and cinematic landscapes, while also educating aspiring creators on filmmaking, camera gear, and content creation strategies. His work blends storytelling, travel, and visual aesthetics, drawing inspiration from filmmakers and cinematic directors known for strong visual style.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
• How to start filmmaking with the gear you already have
• The difference between commercial videography and content creation
• How creators monetize through brand deals and affiliate links
• Why views often matter more than followers for brand partnerships
• The opportunity for creatives living in Alberta
• Why community matters for creative growth
• How to stop overthinking and start creating
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:10 Moving From El Salvador to Canada During COVID
06:30 Studying Mechanical Engineering While Loving Film
11:05 Starting Filmmaking With an iPhone
15:20 Phone vs Professional Cameras
19:45 Commercial Videography vs Content Creation
24:30 Pivoting Back to Social Media Content
27:34 How Creators Monetize Content
29:57 Affiliate Links & Brand Partnerships
31:18 Why Views Matter More Than Followers
35:03 Sponsors & Digital Products (LUTs)
39:40 Business, Taxes & Creators in Canada
45:15 Alberta vs Toronto for Creatives
50:40 Comfort Community vs Growth Community
56:20 Building a Creative Community in Calgary
1:02:10 Cinematic Influences & Visual Style
1:08:52 Turn Off Your Brain: Stop Overthinking Creativity
1:10:20 Rapid Fire
Connect With Adrian
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/adrianrivasc/
Connect With Mofiyin
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the.mofiyin
Hungry Creative Podcast
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thehungrycreativepod
