Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Simmons.
Hi Nicole, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am a cinematographer whose journey began at fifteen, when I received my first home video camera and knew, long before I fully understood how, that filmmaking would be my path. I pursued that calling academically at the University of North Texas and The Art Institute of Dallas, earning a Bachelor of Arts and an Associate degree in Video Production. Driven by a deep passion for telling stories through the lens, I started as a videographer and editor, shooting local indie television shows that aired on Dallas–Fort Worth broadcast channels while working on as many film sets as possible to learn the craft from the ground up. When I received my first opportunity to serve as the cinematographer on a film, my direction became clear. Today, my goal as a cinematographer is to continue elevating visually rich, character-driven narratives—particularly stories centered on culture, community, and underrepresented voices—while expanding my work in documentary and narrative film at a higher cinematic and industry level.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to becoming a cinematographer has not been easy, but it has been consistent and purposeful. Navigating the highs and lows of the industry has taught me resilience and lessons best learned through experience. Each challenge sharpened my discernment; clarifying who and what I could trust. In recent years, as I stepped fully into life as a full-time filmmaker and entrepreneur, I faced slow periods, delayed pay, and uncertainty. Ultimately, however, my greatest challenge has been myself. Looking inward has been essential to my growth, strengthening both my craft and my confidence, and reminding me that any obstacle can be overcome.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a cinematographer, my primary goal is to tell meaningful stories through camera and light. I am deeply invested in creating intentional work through collaboration with directors, actors, editors, and every member of the filmmaking process. I take great pride in the films I have shot and in the visible growth from one project to the next. Above all, I strive to honor the intended vision while showing up as a skilled, reliable, and thoughtful collaborator.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I believe that taking risks is essential to achieving meaningful goals and dreams. Growth inevitably challenges comfort, and there comes a point when the two are in direct conflict, regardless of the industry or ambition. Risk always carries the possibility of failure, but without it, stagnation is almost certain. True success or failure cannot be defined until the attempt is made.
I chose to take that risk by committing to filmmaking full time; an industry built on visibility, relationships, and uncertainty, with no guarantees. In doing so, I stepped away from a potentially stable corporate career to pursue work rooted in purpose and creativity and passion. That decision has pushed me to grow both personally and artistically, and through it, I can clearly see my progress and the possibilities ahead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://eleven21media.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicsimmons_cinematographer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.simmons.54540
