Most filmmakers find themselves stuck in the middle ground of their careers—but those who rise to the top are the ones willing to take bold creative risks. Grammy-nominated director Frank Borin, known for working with Zayn Malik, Five Seconds of Summer, Bon Jovi, Jack Harlow, and Lil Nas X, knows this firsthand.
Pitching to labels, ad agencies, or studios can be daunting, and the fear of stepping too far outside the norm is real. But according to Borin, playing it safe won’t get you noticed. The key is creativity and vision, even in navigating budget constraints and overcoming unexpected on-set challenges. Read on to discover Frank Borin’s expert insights on how to elevate your filmmaking career.
Frank Borin during an exclusive interview for MasterShot
Balance Budgets and Creativity in Video Production
One of the biggest challenges in filmmaking, especially in music video production, is working within budget constraints. Borin emphasizes strategic decision-making to maximize production value. Understanding how to allocate resources effectively is key to successful film budgeting.
“The biggest issue with music videos is that the artists and labels’ expectations are often ridiculously impossible [...] Any director knows you won’t get a $200 million Steven Spielberg movie for $40,000. The key is to be realistic with the record labels,” he says.
He cites director Jensen Noen as a master of low-budget filmmaking, demonstrating how strategic choices can make a modest budget look cinematic.
Director Jensen Noen with the crew during the shooting of the video “Ronald” by Falling in Reverse
Be Prepared for the Unexpected On-Set
“If you’ve prepared thoroughly, the shoot will go smoothly – at least for the crew,” Borin says.
However, working with clients, such as record labels, agencies, and artists, introduces variables beyond your control. No matter how well a production is planned, unexpected challenges will arise. The ability to stay composed and find creative solutions is what separates great directors from the rest.
“I’ve seen many directors freeze in these situations, become scattered, and lose their focus, causing the entire shoot to fall apart. A prepared director, however, knows how to handle setbacks and stay on course,” Borin explains.
Frank Borin recalls a music video shoot with Eminem and Obie Trice where a lowrider car, which was a key prop, was damaged in an accident. Some crew members were hospitalized, and the entire production was at risk.
He didn’t know what to do, but a seasoned producer reminded him: first, make sure everyone is safe. Then, come up with a new plan. As a result, Frank Borin and his crew integrated the accident into the video, using green screens for missing shots. That experience taught him that as a director, you must keep shooting – no matter what.
The best directors adapt to any situation, including bad weather, technical failures, or last-minute changes. Keeping the camera rolling is essential to completing a project successfully.
Behind the scenes of the Cookiee Kawaii & Tyga “Vibe (If I Back It Up)” music video
Collaborate with Other Directors
Success in the film industry often depends on relationships. Borin highlights the importance of networking and collaborating with other directors. Recommending peers for jobs, assisting on shoots, and working together on projects contribute to long-term career growth.
Frank Borin states that the best advice he can give to a director is this: “...the sooner you learn this lesson, the more successful you’ll be – most of your jobs will come from other directors.”
Similarly, forming genuine connections with artists can lead to long-term creative partnerships. Authentic relationships increase opportunities for securing future projects.
“It’s becoming friends with other directors and creating a group where everyone helps each other and recommends them for a job. It’s a reason why Spielberg, Coppola, and Scorsese are successful because they have helped each other on their shoots,” Borin explains.
Frank and Ivanna Borin with Bon Jovi on the set of the “Labor Of Love” music video
Build a Strong Brand
The biggest directors – past and present – have all built a brand. Take Mark Romanek and Spike Jonze, their styles are different, yet their works are unmistakably recognizable. You can’t get a Spike Jonze video from anyone other than Spike Jonze. They didn’t just have a signature style; they had groundbreaking ideas, a distinct creative vision, and a fearless approach to storytelling. To be at the top, a director must be bold, innovative, and irreplaceable.
"You’ve got to create a strong brand. People may try to copy your work, but the best imitation will never be as good as what you do. Once you’ve established a unique voice, you have to keep evolving it because eventually, that voice will become dated. The real challenge is staying fresh, innovative, and at the top of your game,” he says.
Dave Meyers is a perfect example – he’s constantly evolving while staying true to his core style. He remains ahead of the curve by bringing fresh, exciting ideas to every project.
Frank Borin reminds us to keep moving forward, even if your ideas seem too bold, unconventional, or risky. The industry may resist at first, but eventually, it will accept your voice – because no one else has it.
Watch the full interview with Frank Borin for exclusive insights from one of the industry’s top directors. When it’s time to turn your vision into reality, MasterShot is here to streamline your pre-production and collaboration. Get started for free today – just click below.