Colin Kelly Hingel
Q What do you do?
“I’m a filmmaker, specifically - Editor, Director & Cinematographer.”
Editing is my first and primary love. I’m currently focussing on editing and directing.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I was obsessed with my moms VHS camcorder as a kid, shooting little movies and cutting them on VCRs. That fueled my desire to go to film school at SVA in NYC. From there I got out creating whatever I could, mainly music related content at the time, which led to an awesome internship at Atlantic records. I eventually landed a couple full time gigs along the way, both as an editor and cinematographer creating all sorts of content - narrative, documentary, commercial, branded and social. I’ve consistently freelanced through it all with really cool brands, super talented artists and friends.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I don't rely too heavily on inspirations or match examples, and it’s nice making decisions based on how the work is flowing in real time. I enjoy this with editing, because you have the ability to tweak things meticulously. To balance that, when I get into a groove, choices made from the gut in the moment always end up the final cut. I like to keep that energy with directing and shooting as well. My favorite professor once told me that my work felt like it was “cut on emotion”. That really stuck with me and defined how I create.
Q What are you working on right now?
Submitting my short film "Wormhole" to festivals soon. It’s a thriller I made with some of my favorite people. I directed, edited and co-wrote it.
Q What’s your style?
Nostalgic, raw, relatable. There’s a dimly lit, super comfy, friendly bar beneath my favorite movie theater that's known for playing VHS tapes on an old TV. However you'd digest that whole vibe and generalize it into words, I’d say it describes my energy and style nicely.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Directing! I’m very open to any opportunities where I can experiment more with it.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Oversaturation in the industry.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Outreach! Discover and connect with other artists about collaborating. Even if it’s just to chat and establish a relationship.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
What? Always push back and stand up for your artistic choices when your gut tells you to, compromising isn’t always necessary. Why? It feels great to feel great, and content, with every project I put out there no matter how big or small.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Talent representation options for editors, editing collectives, expanding my network with diverse clients.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’d love to work on more music videos and commercial projects! I'd also like to dive into more narrative shorts and features, documentaires too.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
Basic aspects of an ideal working situation are - creative freedom, quality over quantity, reasonable timeline, clear communication and direction. A solid balance of structure and flexibility. I’m happy when we’re all happy!
Q What is your rate?
Varies based on project details, complexity and timeline. Currently, the standard base is $800 / day. Happy to negotiate hourly or project rates as well.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Just say hey! Email is always a good start. Hit me with as many details as you can. We'll chat further on the phone or zoom, and if we get to link up in person - we’ll grab a beer!
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Samuel McGuire is an excellent photographer / director and a blast of a human. He's such a joy to work with.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Going outside! Nature charges me up.
This member profile was originally published in November 2023