In a world full of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and intriguing stories waiting to be told, travel filmmaking has emerged as a beacon for creative souls seeking adventure and a way to share their experiences. Among the notable figures in this vibrant community is Sam Newton, a travel videographer whose journey from college student to Canon Co-Lab Ambassador serves as an inspiration to many aspiring creators. In this article, we dive into Sam’s story and his insights about the art of travel filmmaking and the tools that help bring his vision to life.

The Spark of Creativity: Early Beginnings

Sam Newton hails from Claremont, California, where the seeds of creativity were sown early in life. Though he possessed a natural inclination for creativity, it wasn’t until he attended UC Davis that he discovered his passion for filmmaking. Surrounded by a predominantly agricultural focus, Sam took advantage of the absence of a competitive creative market on campus, allowing him to establish himself as the go-to filmmaker.

Around the age of 18, he picked up a camera for the first time, and as he explored the potential of filmmaking, he began creating videos that would soon lead him down the path to becoming a travel videographer. Rather than pursuing a traditional film school in Los Angeles, which would have subjected him to a saturated market, he realized the uncharted territory at UC Davis offered him a unique opportunity to cultivate his craft.

Resilience and Entrepreneurship

The journey to becoming a professional travel filmmaker was not without its challenges. Many would have second-guessed their path when realizing they were in a niche that not many others were pursuing. However, Sam turned this challenge into an opportunity, honing his entrepreneurial spirit.
During his time at UC Davis, he began offering videography services to peers, thus building a small income which allowed him to graduate with less debt. By the time he completed his studies, he was confident enough to leap into travel filmmaking full-time.

Taking the Leap: Going Global

After graduation, Sam had the support of his parents, which notably eased his transition into the world of travel filmmaking. He spent several years traveling the globe, knocking on doors and pitching brands to fund his trips. Sam was willing to shoulder his own food and lodging costs if they could provide him with flights to new destinations. This determination led him to develop a successful travel media company at a young age, solidifying the foundation for his career.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, everything changed. While many filmmakers faced setbacks, Sam leveraged his past travel footage and shifted focus to YouTube, where he found an audience eager for authentic travel content. His momentum quickly surged, leading him to embrace YouTube as a full-time career.

Crafting Stories: The Art of Filmmaking

At the heart of travel filmmaking lies the art of storytelling. For Sam, the process of creating a video begins long before he turns on the camera. It involves truly experiencing a location and capturing its essence through his lens. Sam’s films are not just about showcasing beautiful landscapes but about conveying feelings and emotions. He often reflects on his trips and writes voiceover scripts that encapsulate the experience before editing the footage to fit that narrative.

Observational Filming

Differentiating himself from conventional travel documentaries, Sam believes in capturing the essence of the culture, environment, and moment. His shooting style is characterized by a spontaneous, observational approach, allowing viewers to feel as if they are living the journey alongside him. He reflects on how travel teaches you to appreciate the little things and engage in the world around you.

A Collaborative Spirit

Collaboration plays a crucial role in Sam’s creative process. Throughout his journey, he has emphasized the importance of working with like-minded individuals who share a passion for storytelling. Whether it’s joining forces with fellow creators or collaborating with brands, he believes in creating an environment that fosters artistic freedom.

Moreover, his role as a Canon Ambassador has opened opportunities to collaborate with elite filmmakers and photographers, further expanding his network and creative synergies.

Tools of the Trade: Canon Gear

As a filmmaker, having the right tools can make a difference in translating your artistic vision to the screen. Sam is known for shooting with the Canon R5, a favorite among filmmakers for its impressive capabilities. The flexibility that Canon gear provides, paired with its high-quality optics, allows Sam to capture stunning travel visuals.

Here are some of Sam’s preferred gear:

• Canon R5
• Canon C70 for professional filming
• Lenses including
• 15-35mm for wide shots
• 24-70mm for versatile shooting
• 50mm f1.2 L for portraits and cinematic depth

Sam’s choice of equipment reflects his commitment to lightweight and efficient shooting, enabling spontaneous captures during travel. The emphasis on handheld shooting allows him to create raw and authentic visual storytelling, inviting the audience into his experiences.

Lessons Learned: Reflections on Travel and Creativity

Traveling has taught Sam profound lessons about life, creativity, and connection. He emphasizes the importance of being present, recognizing that in the fast-paced world we inhabit, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. His travels not only instill a sense of purpose but also lead to rich interactions with diverse cultures and people.

The Power of Storytelling

Ultimately, Sam believes that every creator has the potential to connect through their unique stories. “No one can take away your story,” he reminds aspiring filmmakers. Whether you are sharing your journey through travel, a personal struggle, or creative pursuits, the human experience resonates beyond borders.

Conclusion

Sam Newton’s journey as a travel filmmaker is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions and embracing unique opportunities. His story encourages aspiring creatives to weave their narratives into their work and highlight the personal connections that make filming so rewarding.

As Sam continues to explore new frontiers through his lens, he inspires countless others to explore their creative paths with curiosity, resilience, and heart. Whether through captivating tales of adventure or insightful reflections, Sam encourages us all to pick up our own cameras, step outside, and capture the world from our perspective—because every moment we live is worthy of being shared.

Take a leap of faith, follow your passions, and let your creativity flourish! For more inspiration and to follow Sam on his journey, check out Sam Newton on YouTube and his insights on Instagram.