this was really weird for me to watch because it describes literally everything I live and breathe right now, I've not uploaded in so long and I've done nothing but search and discover creativity again, happiness>inspiration>quality>quantity
Huge respect for actually saying how the gratification of a finished product is not the only factor relevant when creating stuff. I think the sentiment of "as long as one person likes it, it is worth it" has been thrown about a lot, and even if there are some truth behind it, it is important to remind artists, especially young ones, that there are more to it and it is okay to also consider that aspect of creating stuff. Great vid as always Dom.
Thanks and yes! It's tricky advice too, cause I do think if someone HASN'T made a bunch of stuff for the hell of it, that's an important era before they start looking at every single beginning with a sharper eye.
Hey Dom, first of all, I just want to say that I've always looked up to you and the way that you approach making art. The things you make on here never feel like soulless products, and they always feel uniquely you, and I appreciate the hell out of that. As a creative person who also wants to get somewhere someday with the things that *I* make, I've always kinda viewed making things as a compromise between making the thing I want to make and making the thing that people want to see. But it's frustrating when those don't overlap, so I have to hide the thing I want to make INSIDE the thing people want to see, like hiding vegetables inside the candy. Maybe that's a toxic way to think about it, because I want to believe that if someone makes something purely out of the desire to make it, it'll connect with people and find an audience, but realistically I know it doesn't work that way, and thinking about that bums me out.
I feel like since I've been viewing your content for 11 years I'll accept anything you put out. That being said, I'd say as long as you're happy with the content, please continue to pump it out. Your music has been an absolute delight and I hope to see more of it on Spotify soon. Moreover, your recent video content has also been some of my favorite on all of UA-cam. Keep taking risks. I know one day it'll all be worth it. I can't wait to go to the movies one day and see your name on the big screen.
Okay now that I can properly comment. I appreciate this video a lot. It's hard to find that balance between quantifying the likes and comments, ect. and whether it geniunely feels worth it to you to make that project. Because while you want to grab someone's attention, and kind of cater to them, you can't just let your own interest be swept aside for, well, money.
The way I see it, it's never useless what you make; the videos you make always have a use: to show someone your skills, to entertain, to enhance your on skills, to use in a showreel for a bigger opportunity. There is always going to be a time where you question the point of your craft, but the way I keep going it though with two things I keep in my head: 1. It'll entertain SOMEONE 2. It won't be useless
Hi Dom. Dom here. Been watching you since I was in a kid. Even was star struck when i ran into you once at a movie theater. It's awesome to hear that you're still passionate about your craft man, regardless of audience. Dont feel stuck. We all get stuck. You cant be a machine of creativity as much as we'd like to be. Sometimes it's nice to take a break and let your creative juices build back up again. If you're worried about viewers; standby. You make great content and always have. The viewers will come. I literally just got done watching The End, again, and it still holds up even after all this time. Also dont forget about film festivals all over the country that are just a submission fee away from entry. I'm excited to see more from ya. Papa bless.
Dang..it's crazy to think that I was watching your videos when I was in middle school way back in the day, and now I'm graduated from college I feel old.
I think it really sucks when there's a channel or a video that has some really good content, but it's severely lacking in popularity. Two great examples of this are this channel and Exurb1a's "and then we'll be okay". That video hasn't broken a million views yet, unlike most of the channel, but it is one my favourite videos on UA-cam.
I realise that my comment was vague, I simply meant that I have never encountered an exurb1a fan outside of his comments section. Which is odd considering the size of his fanbase
I watch this every once in a while as a helpful reminder that I'm not alone in the existential questionings of my decisions past, present and future. Thanks for making this Dom. Unlike you, I have no doubt whatever you put your mind to will be truthful, genuine and high quality. Keep on at it!
I’ve been coming to grips for months with the fact that I constantly feel an aversion to share stuff that I’m proud of or passionate about because I have this idea that my art is somehow less important than everyone else’s. I absolutely feel the need to figure out what is worth my time and it has helped me to re-evaluate the kind of stuff that I’m making. Thanks for sharing this Dom 👍🏼
Dom youre one of the first people I've seen on UA-cam back in the early days. And I love seeing you do things that look worth it. Your music, direction and acting all seem worth it as a viewing stand point because I've enjoyed it all.
You're amazing man! A lot of the memories I cherish from middle school and high school, hanging out with my friends and joking, exist because you created what you did, just wanted to say thank you!
You’re the only UA-camr In which my tastes and enjoyment have grown with you. From lazer collection at the age of 10 to now, your content has struck me throughout all of its changing and evolving. I know you’ll hit a breakthrough, rather it be through your creations or through something you never would’ve guessed. Keep putting in that work dom
This was definitely something I needed to hear - I'm about to graduate film school and I'm currently on internship in LA. People always ask what kind of movies I'd like to make and my answer is usually kind of ambiguous. I know I love cinematography and that that's kind of my "thing," but I know I still don't necessarily have a personal style. So, with all that in mind as someone about to graduate, I feel like I'm in limbo between wanting to keep experimenting/throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks and also needing a direct path. Especially when I make my UA-cam videos, I know that the quality is not necessarily indicative of my skills as a filmmaker because they're just UA-cam videos I make for fun, but I worry that a potential employer might see them and just think that I'm straight up a bad filmmaker, without checking out my more professional portfolio. Wherever I decide I am, this video definitely made me think.
I know the feeling. Taking a moment to sit back is powerful. I think there’s nothing wrong with experimenting and trying to create something that people enjoy because ultimately, as you said, we make films because we want people to see them and feel something. I think it comes down to ambition and goals too. Each to their own. Love your work. I do hope you keep creating! And hopefully they get your email.
Just wanted to say, I've been here since the lazer collection, that was the funniest thing in the entire world when i first saw it back in primary school. It went literally viral at my old school, everyone would quote it and re-enact the stupid scenes from it. It was just great. I think whatever you do, it's gonna be great because you have the ability to make people laugh and you can't go too far wrong with that.
This really hit home with me. I've really been struggling with this question a lot and this video helped me in some way that I can't quite explain. So thank you.
Really feel you man. Perfectly verbalised a feeling i’ve had for a long time. I think its really productive and enjoyable to develop a deeper understanding of how you feel - thats what this video did for me. And as a creator myself, it’s what I always aim to embed into all of my creations. Thanks again for this! Make more!
I think about this a lot, though more in the objectively quantifiable terms. I'm 15 so don't need things to come of the stuff I make but I am aware that the ratio of time I spend making a project:time other people spend on viewing/ listening to that project is very much stacked against me. However, I still keep making stuff fairly regularly and I have been for ages even when no validation or appreciation is there. I'm not really sure why so many people never stop making stuff, even when the ratio is very high. Just a little interjection, great video (it helped me look at this subject in more professional and long term ways)
Dom, I watched you back in the Lazer Collection days and I'm watching you again now (rediscovered you thru dodie actually), and after watching a lot of your recent stuff I have to say I love how you've grown as an artist. I think it's great you're taking a moment to respect your own time and art as a way to respect your audience. Regarding the idea of posting consistently for its own sake, I say that it's also important to look at the consistency of quality of content as well. You've got a great mind Dom, and I can certainly say that I'll be here to see what you do with it.
Also the whole colour pallete of the video, from the colours of your goofy movie sweater to the backyard are all so complementary of each other, I love it sm
Thanks Dom, love ya, love this video. As I try another year to make a film on a no-string budget, I like hearing stuff like this. You always got my support.
I create things for me, so that i can keep a cool video diary of all my memories. But I know that I'm posting them in a public place, so I want them to be good. What I want is to make people smile with what I create, I don't have a long term goal, but I hope in the short term I make people smile. Thanks Dom, I've followed you for years and I absolutely love your honesty!
I definitely agree with what you're saying. I have not made something in months. I've definitely had plenty of ideas in that time, but I keep thinking that what's the point of making something when I'm basically the only person who would see it and kind of enjoy it? Even when I think that making some topical or clickbaity thing would help, I realize that my reach still only goes so far. It's frustrating, but I've slowly been trying to convince myself to ignore that aspect of the creative process and just do what I like to do and make what I want to make. You've done great so far and I know things will only get better for you!
Hey! I just wanted to say that my sister and I have always thought your content was ahead of its time. Can probably quote "Darren Apologizes" verbatim at this point, about 1,000 views on that vid are from us 😂 I've recently started watching more and more stuff. You deserve so much more recognition that you don't already have, it makes me sad a little that dumb videos get crazy views. Anyway yeah, just a little ego boost for you hopefully so here you go d:
This brings to my mind the differences in how I used to view art and creation: I used to believe that as long as I published a book, for example, I'd be happy (regardless of whether it was even my name on the cover, or if anyone knew it was me, etc.). whereas now i do put more value in gaining credit and recognition. part of the change was probably in the viewpoint of self-worth.. the other part was as you said: the shift from hobby to career, or the search for a way to create sustainably. always enjoy your videos; they remind me that i enjoy being creative which i often forget !! thank you !
I totally feel that. I am sorta in that exploration phase with my channel and rest of career. I do not dedicate enough time on my videos, but I would say your videos were a big influence for me when I was growing up. I do more writing than filming, mainly because I constantly hit obstacles. For example, I wrote an entire script with songs as well for a Christmas short film I wanted to upload before last Christmas, and it took me since summer to create. Unfortunately, finding the cast with available days were a real struggle. I don’t know if it will have many views, but I’m personally worried about whether it will look as good as I imagined it. If it is, then I would feel good and treat it like a success.
Fantastic video. I've had a lot of this on my mind recently so it's great to hear it put into words here on youtube . com. In the past I've mainly made long form docu-vlog-things, but more and more recently I've been trying to think at the start of a project whether those ideas could be be converted into a better format, like a short film, which may get those ideas to more people and to lead onto other things if it's in a more traditional format. But it's tough to think what might get lost in that translation, as well as what's now going in for myself or for hopes someone else sees myself and thinks it's good. I think recognising your influences can help though, so then when you see your inspirations in your work, whether it's a vlog, film or painting, youre reminded a version of this worked before... and then just blindly pray some random likes it and gives you a big billion to make 3 more. I trailed off at the end there. Good vid.
First, I just need to say, Dom, I have been enjoying your content for at least a decade now. I always look forward to when you upload something on here because you bring something truly special to the table and I am grateful for that. You've been engaging with your fans in more deep, thought-provoking videos/posts in recent years and I really enjoy that, too, just as much as the rest of your content. I used to dream a lot more about making content for the world, whether it was silly videos in grade school or music for video games in college. I always would look at someone like you and how much you've dedicated your life to doing this and figured since I wasn't doing those things, too, that I probably shouldn't bother. I would still think about potential skits, but just write them down only to be forgetten or start writing songs and make small recordings only to never produce them. Somehow, I recently started to change my attitude and decided I wouldn't let my life keep passing by without putting my ideas and feelings out there. I started making a music studio in my apartment and began dedicating time to practicing piano to play well again and setting goals to eventually produce at least one album, if not, an EP to show for it. Ironically, I more recently started to think maybe it wasn't worth my time. Maybe I would make my content only to have the world step on my heart, bashing the art I wanted to share with them or just having to accept I'm not that talented. I don't plan on making a living off of it, so should I really care that much about what people say? My mother asked why couldn't I just do this for myself, just play it for myself and not share it. I said because I already know what it sounds like in my head and I like it and I think other people might like it, too. Even if I never make a penny off of it, I would have at least made something. There have been plenty of creative people who have entertained me over the years with content that speaks to me, that moves me to laugh, to cry, to think about my life. But you, Dom, have been an inspiration to me. You are one of the most real people about what they do on here and aren't afraid to talk about how hard it really gets. There were some dark times in my life when I would just watch your videos and listen to your music and I would be able to smile long enough to get through things. I hope that someday I can pay it forward and make something that will mean that much to someone else, too. So, thank you for being you and doing what you do, Dom. Maybe someday you'll hear one of my songs and can smile knowing you helped bring it into the world (and hopefully not resent that fact XD )
Dom, I went to film school because the work you put out from 2010-2012 was super influential on me. I've since dropped out because, as you said, i felt like the work I was putting in to becoming a known filmmaker wasn't something that would yield fruitful results. That being said, I still have a love of film (specifically screenwriting), but i don't see myself ever truly pursuing it in a professional medium. In this whole process I've learned that sometimes you have to accept that the art you've made/want to make isn't worth the effort it would take to get it as widely appreciated as you'd like, and switch career paths. Not saying you should do this, but switching the path you take (especially creatively) is not something that should be met with such a damning view by artists in general. There's no shame in being realistic.
i go through that question a lot in my everyday, is it even worth it? is it worth my time or energy? ive stopped creating, and i barely even sing anymore. i dont see a point to it because no one will ever care and it wont make a difference. im not very good at caring about myself or saying nice things to myself but as a Huge fan of yours i would be crushed if you stopped creating. Ive been subscribed for a long time around the time your Danny Webster video went up. and youve always inspired me to just keep pushing through, to keep trying. i watch Deck'd every christmas, and all of it. my personal favorite was The Story Of Santa. it makes me cry almost every time because i find it so beautfil. it fills my heart with a happiness that i dont feel often, and reminds me that there are people in the world who believe in kindness. i will always love what youve created and feel happy when seeing it. but i understand wanting to stop because it feels like no one cares. just know its not no one, it just might not be as many as you dream. which is my problem as well.
Hey Dom, I personally understand exactly what you mean. I reached out to you in a DomAnswers video awhile back about how you push on to the next step when working on a project. I took your advice, but then I quit. I disappeared after a 4 video vlog series because... it just didn't feel worth my time. But here I am now, new camera in bag, ready to tackle a new element of video. As you said, if your making something that isn't you, we will know. Hope to see you back in front of the camera. Been watching for a loooooooong time.
Love the sweater. Anyways, I’ve been subbed to you for a really long time and you’ve always been a big inspiration to my creative mind. My answer to the question is yes, it is important to create something if you are a creative mind because if you don’t you’re always going to wonder “what if?” Even if it can’t be a full time thing, i think it’s always important to have ambitions as an artist and want to make something. However it’s also important to just not make stuff every once in a while. I’ve come to the idea that if you can touch anyone with what you make then you are a successful artist whether or not you can live off it or not. Obviously this is not the majority of thinking but it’s what I’ve come to terms with. Keep up the good sweaters
This really struck a chord with me. I’m a comedian and writer in the Midwest (currently living in Sydney Australia for 6 months, still pursuing Comedy) and I too have been weighing the worth of what I do. I’ve been working for over two years and I’m only just coming to terms with the idea that it actually matters what the audience thinks of my material and I have to kind of cater to that to a degree. On the one hand, I want to be totally true to myself in the material I write, on the other hand I need to make the audience laugh. And sometimes overlapping those two makes me afraid I’ll cheat myself, but actually it’s a refinement of my skill and finding my niche in the market. Not every idea is going to be worth pursuing, but I think that just means we’re getting quicker at finding the good ones.
As someone who's been subscribed to your channel for about ten years now, I think it's pretty frustrating to see popularity so quickly wane from when you were doing basic comedy sketches and animations to actual heartfelt films. There is truth that artists are somewhat limited by "the market" of UA-cam, especially when the algorithm rewards nitpicky, inaccurate, and often unthoughtful video essays when there are others that are making actual films that get snuffed by the viewerbase. The reality is that if you don't follow the flow, you'll remain unpopular, but the question that needs to be answered is: does that matter to you? I tell a lot of my college student peers similarly who are having a hard time finding out what they want to do to do something that they'll hate that'll make them a lot of money, or to do what they love and be okay with living humbly. I think both options are totally acceptable, and in this case, remaining unpopular if that's where your heart is. If however, you're feeling adventurous, I think that you would be particularly talented at doing movie analyses like a lot of other content creators are doing nowadays. You've also always had a talent for comedy sketches which I think the "market" of YT is also kind of thirsting for. On a final note, I noticed that a lot of your films recently have been leaning more towards a genre of drama which again, if that's where your heart is, there's nothing wrong with it; but it's also a well-saturated genre that many, many filmmakers go to seemingly out of instinct. I would love to see something break that mold, and you have a knack for surreal comedy, making concepts that are so artistically ridiculous that the idea in and of itself is enticing. One such short film you made that I'll never forget and still show my friends to this day is "Kenny Bassender and the Puppydog Racers." That film did one thing and it did it perfectly, surreal humor. You've got some great ideas and you've shown to be very thoughtful about the whole process of making a film, but when you get a creative idea that's a least a little bit different from what every other creator is doing, turn it up to 11. Be unapologetic about your weird ideas or even different ways of doing things, you're one of the only people that I've seen that can do it and not only get away with it, but be successful with it. Looking forward to more of your stuff in the future, Dom.
Nah I get it, man. I appreciate you kind of articulating my thoughts into words. I'm a cosplay artist and I love making and creating things, but lately, this past year honestly, I haven't had any inspiration to make anything. The materials and tools in my basement are a blank canvas and, simply put, I'm fresh outta paint. To sit and do nothing for a while is okay, and I've just recently stopped raking through my brain cells trying to find an idea and decided to take a hiatus until I find my spark again. Because if I'm not inspired by my own work, nobody else will be because it doesn't look inspired. Because it isn't. And then I wasted all this time on a project that I didn't even care that much about to begin with and yadda yadda. I may not find my spark again, ever. It may spark for something else entirely and I'm open to that. But it's nice to know that I'm not the only artist to have these kinds of thoughts. Good vid.
My favorite film by you is "The End." I don't know if you find it successful by your definition, or if you feel now that it was worth your time, but I've thoroughly enjoyed that film for years. Seriously, I'm at least 20 of the views on that video. I've always liked the stuff you put out, not because your work strikes a cord in me, which it does, but because it's distinctly you. You have a way of leaving your mark on these projects that doesn't always involve you; take "Away" as an example. Without me going back to rewatch it, you had little to know screen time in that film, but I could feel your heart and soul in it. It was genuinely a fantastic work. You've got a point, people have to like what you out out or you can't really do what you do. Though I feel at this point, you have a large repertoire of experience behind you, and fans that you have that like your "unseen" touch, will like your work. Keep it up Dom, you're doing great.
Hey Dom, I appreciate you talking about this! I def struggle with this too, and I think the mindset I have right now is: -Start the creative thing for me -Finish the creative thing for me but also for more than just me Cus I think in essence a lot of my ideas boil down to things I’m interested in, and ultimately I make the things to share with other people in an effort to get them interested in the same things I am, because I think there’s folks out there who are interested, and I’d appreciate connecting with them 😊
Honestly, a year ago I wouldn't have been able to empathize at all with this, I was so panicked and scared about graduating and having to get into the animation world. It's just now happening to me where I can say I have a creative direction, and it only really occurred after stepping away from animation and creating for a little while. It let me come back with a fresh perspective, and I feel like now I can see my projects as more than just "other people have to like this so it'll make money" and more "I like this, I'm gonna give it my all, and I know at least a couple other people will enjoy it too." So this video was really meaningful to watch, especially coming from an independent creator I've been a fan of for so long. A few months ago, Felix Colgrave answered a question about "doing animation wrong" and his response was "no, your training prioritizes turnover and assembly-line animation over actually being creative" and that helped too.
Whether you choose to make or not, whatever you choose to make, I'm here. Because I'm waiting for a proper release of Wolf's theme, as it was playing in the Wolf Is Coming web page in loops.
Hey Dom! You're not alone in this. I just moved out of LA for a year because I had similar issues. I really love what you make, and I hope it all works out :)
Dom, you were the most popular person on the internet with the laser collection. but ur music is pretty damn great. just do something that’ll get you some clout and then go back to normal if you want more people to enjoy what u do or find you but the people that have been here since laser collection, then you just have to keep doing you bro. we all love you
I could really, really just sit down and talk about it. The whole amount of time and thoughts and challenges and failures of all the music projects I wanted to, tried to do, failed to do since I decided that being a songwriter/musician was a good idea for me to pursue at 18 years old. There were so many times of wanting to just push beyond my circumstance and stretch myself to my limits to maybe get that one "moment" and there are so many times of self doubt. It's like waves on a beach. Such is life.
In your humble opinion, is it a good sign that an idea/concept is worth my time if it’s one of those things that hasn’t really gone away? Like a lot of my ideas, I get very pumped about it and then ultimately I get a little bored of it. But, this specific idea has been sitting on me for a few years now, and I pretty much think about it every single day. Thoughts?
I think it is.. if it’s eating at you it may mean it’s the one thing that will fulfill u.. idk but if it’s constantly on ur mind seems like a good indication to create it
I get what you're thinking/feeling too. I would also add that even if you make something that doesn't connect instantly with people, give it time - the right audience will find it. If you truly believed in what you created, then that's all the proof you need that it wasn't a waste of time. I've had stuff sit around for years before someone found it, and it led to something else that I could have never expected.. which again leads to something else. It's all connected. And it's ok to not make art when you're not into it. Can't force inspiration.
Hey Dom! I don’t know you at all but I’ve watched your videos my entire adolescence. I have the same nostalgia attached to your videos that I do with 2D Disney movies and drake and josh. I never comment on things or give any sort of response to “content creators” because it feels like this weird disconnect but in this video you went from one of my internet idols to just a normal guy talking about the stress in his life. So I just wanted to say man, I appreciate everything you’ve done and your crazy versatile talent from the devil and Danny Webster to deck’d 2 which is my favourite in the trilogy if I had to pick. You’re videos were 50% of my sense of humour alongside Jake and Amir videos in high school. I was bummed I never got to see your Spider-Man radio show turn out to be anything because you sound a hell of a lot like Peter Parker. In summary, I wish you all the best in your future dude. And Reo is an asshole.
I started youtube over 10 years ago (wow time flies) and I started out doing stop motion animations, then I started doing pivot animations, branched off from those because I no longer had any ideas or stories to tell. I still sit there for hours trying to come up with a concept for film ideas or even animation ideas. and by the off chance I do find a slight idea, I can never fully write it down to create an entire idea. but even though I know just about no one will ever watch them, I would still do as much as I can. ive uploaded a bunch of unfinished work. just too see what feedback id get. which usually isn't anything. and that's okay! we are on completely different levels (10 years in and im still pretty nooby at it) but I feel pursuing what you have as long as its solid is a great idea. so speaking of ideas, id still love to see more wolf based stories. same with billy goat caller and die now or live forever. all of your ideas have been brilliant so far. I feel like you could really go into depths with the displacements, and even the Deck'd series has been a Christmas tradition every year. just isn't Christmas without them. I don't tend to go on facebook anymore but maybe some youtube lives to just chat with the fans could go a long way too for you to run some ideas by your fan base and see what they're feeling, but im not saying just do what others say. you have to decide whether or not you have the passion behind it to keep it going. because having passion for something is a huge part and that's what will make it feel better. I tend to be a lurker on things and don't comment on much of anything, so this feels weird. especially being a long comment most people will skip over. you probably know all of this though. excuse my poor writing skills.
This video reminds me of the Japanese word, ikigai, which when translated to English roughly means "thing that you live for" or "the reason for which you wake up in the morning." It's the confluence of what you love, what the world needs, what you're good at and what you can be rewarded for. I hope that if you've not already found your ikigai, you realise it sooner rather than later.
Making art isn't easy. I spent 8-9 months creating an original cartoon pilot and it got basically no views. It's a really tough balancing act because you need viewers in order to make a living off it, but you also need to have fun creating it as well.
"Creativity - like human life itself - begins in darkness" and "We speak often about ideas as brainchildren. What we do not realize is that brainchildren, like all babies, should not be dragged from the creative womb prematurely" - Julia Cameron "The Artist's Way". If you have not read that book, I highly recommend it more than words can express and if you don't imma give ya 'nother ticket...
this topic is so complex and conflicting! i put out stuff which really no one but my close family and friends see, I only make it for myself and to try and get better at 'the craft' lol. when I'm happy with how something turns out i feel it's worth it... for a bit. and then i just wish more people could see, give me a response, tell me whether it's actually good but that never happens... so I don't feel motivated to make anything else. then i get the urge to create again and the cycle repeats. it's frustrating but i also get the feeling that this may never go away no matter how many people see my stuff? and possibly that an issue in my head rather than anything external? but also i agree you can sort of quantify something being worth it sometimes and i just don't think i've ever got to that point.
Seriously, at the end of the day you're making something that isn't so much "necessary" or a need as it is a "want" and people have to want it a great deal to buy it.
@@gt123indefatiguability Yep. In a perfect world we'd all be recognized for our efforts, but for now we have to claw for every inch and the only thing you can control is your own satisfaction over your work, and hope enough people agree that will allow you to survive on it.
TheRealAlpha2 I mean if people shared more we wouldn’t have people being afraid of being homeless while others have 3 homes everywhere in the world. That’s just decency, rich people tend to forget that, they get out of touch. How can you be happy in world where people around you can hardly eat etc
I don't think I have anything to add about what films you should make. You make good films, and even the ones that aren't perfect are still well-made films. It's your gift; use it the way you want to.
Although I totally agree that we should think about what is worth doing, and for a video I did with my TV station, I emphasized that you would be making unrealistic goals trying to make videos and looking forward too soon of becoming popular especially with things that may not seem relevant, I would have to say I'm pretty guilty of doing that with the videos I'm doing right now mostly because I never know what topics are relevant. Moreover, I can only get lucky making something worth it like trying anchovy pizza, declaring Mountain Dew Kickstart is not an energy drink, and walking through Pottermore Hogwarts as fast as possible.
I think it's important just to make what you want and put it out there no matter how bad it is. Its OK to separate your shitposts from your serious stuff on different portfolio spaces but as long as you never stop creating your stuff and putting it out there you can't lose. The only way to stay creative is to keep using your creative bone.
I've been a fan of your stuff since The Billy Goat Caller, and it makes sense that you might feel fatigued about creating things. I want you to succeed, obviously, you're one of my favorite creators Ever. But I also want you, the creator, to be satisfied with what you create. Your audience will be here when you release videos, and we will Like and Comment the SHIT out of them. I"m uh. Already subscribed, so I uh. Can't. Again. But! The other things.
I think it's interesting how your perspective has changed, and I think it makes sense. I still find the purpose of making art inherent in the making itself, but then again it's purely a hobby for me. For you, if this is something you are trying to make a career from, it's justifiable to be more choosy about what you put your energy into. I hope you are able succeed on your journey.
Totally! I also believe it's EXTREMELY important to make stuff just to make stuff! It's the center of the creative universe!! But that's allowed to have an end point if you're just not where you want to be yet etc. It's a very fair recalculation I think -- but it doesn't mean STOP making stuff to make stuff. No way. I'm just at a point where I'm trying to be more clever at the starting line
As a creative person working on comics I said "Screw X, I'm doing this for me," where X was not the customer is was the gateway corporation that was blocking it from getting to those customers because they're the ones that should count in the end. And because of that I started looking for other ways to get my product out to people that are my fans and want to see it. Maybe it's not the same level of market penetration but if I have fans and I have a way to interact with them freely which there are plenty of these days then the people who want to see my stuff will eventually. That may not lead to me ever drawing like an X-men comic or something but maybe I don't need to do that to feel fulfilled as long as I like what I'm producing. yeah I can occasionally make something for a market or a demographic and I have started a couple of projects with different audiences in mind, But I'm far less concerned with getting through a stagnant system to deliver my product to those people and I'm still making something I like because I started out WANTING to make it for those audiences. When the time comes I'll think about broadening my audience to new people, but it doesn't have to be today, because good product stands the test of time.
A big part of finding success is yourself these three questions: What do I have? What do I want? How can I use the first one to get the second one? Also, eat a lot of sugar and stay up late brainstorming. That’s how I get ideas.
The opposite of catering to an audience is to be artistically self-absorbed, and I think we’ve had this myth of a creative genius that just pulls everything out of his head for too long.
im sitting here frustrated with the empty sketchbook in my lap n put on this video i kinda needed to be told its ok to not make things sometimes,,, as a creative person i find i tie my self worth to what i make and the impact that has and those times when im on creative block or just cant find the motivation to make things kinda tanks my mental health. its a hard habit to break out of lmao
About a year ago in an update/ Q&A video you mention another lazer collection and now I can’t even find any lazer collections on your channel what’s up?
Hey Dominic, have you given anymore thought to the "hosting a script writing class" idea you entertained way back in a Dom answers video? Cuz honestly right now I would just watch videos on how to write.
Hey Dom. I'm a little older than you and have had somewhat similar success in the UA-cam Realm with a few different channels. And it was fun. Made millions of views. Millions of people saw what I made and made gifs from it. Freebooted it. Claimed they made it, over and over and over again. It's safe to say that my work has been assimilated into the cultural Zeitgeist of UA-cam/the internet in one way shape or form. And I've got 0 Monetary value and 0 fans that currently follow me on my Social Media. Nothing to show for it. For a time it defined me. It was okay to not make money from it because the currency that I was accepting was the likes, the shares etc. But as I got older, reality kicked my lil butt and I needed to make money. The passion couldn't bring the bacon so I had to fork over my talents of producing fun/independent content online. I currently still make vids for one of the largest YT channels, but it's not the "Passion" projects that I used to work on. I'm doing what other people tell me to do, but at least I'm making money doing the same thing (kinda) I guess I got somewhat lucky in that regard, but the truth is, It's not what I REALLY wanna do. You know? I think it'd be fun to make vids and make money and be in the public. But honestly... I don't know if I could handle it. It definitely explains the reason why I've gone off the grid because it gave me a sort of emptiness. The social validation eclipsed the creativity that I once loved. I bet you might be able to relate to it in a way with your Lazer Collection were massively popular and successful, but they represent a "you" from before. Not the "you" now that definitely matters more. It's something that you grow out of. Idk man. sorry for the ramble. not a lot of coherency. This vid just got me thinkin' and I don't ever get to talk to anybody about internet video production and the dichotomy you're talking about. So thanks for the vid.
Damn, yeah, this is all extremely valid stuff my pal. And it freaks me out to remember we're still in extremely early internet-people times. There's not a path or model for it yet, it's truly happening as we speak. The Bo Burnham's around us are JUST poking out etc...
@@Dom-Fera It makes you wonder if UA-cam is even going to be the main platform in the future too. I guess talent will always rise, the same way that Vinesters migrated to UA-cam after it shut-down. Anyways, thanks for the reply, dude. Keep it real.
Does this mean we’re not getting Lazer Collection XVII Return of the Boogerboy? Just make sure you let us know when your stuff finally gets on the big screen cuz I will pay a metric buttload of money to see it
This was fascinating, but it left me with the strong impression that you never actually did talk about the real subject of the video. You finish up by saying you wish you could tell Younger You that it's OK to stop once in a while, to not always be pumping stuff out. But the video felt like you saying good-bye to unprofitable projects - including UA-cam.
No no I'm not saying goodbye to anything! And I actually think how you just summed it up is entirely it. You don't HAVE to keep pumping stuff out if you feel like you need to regroup and figure out what'll be worth it to you. Being CREATIVE is never about being calculated... but starting a career might have to be. Again, this is just about when you're staring down the barrel of what could be months of work. And sometimes by my own metrics, I'll be entirely worried a project isn't worth it but do it anyway because I believe in it and don't care.
@@Dom-Fera Well I'm glad to hear it's not a goodbye, but even so, the subject - and why it's coming up now (all your references to how long you've been making stuff online, etc.) - confuses me. I mean, would I be wrong to think the word "career" is the key here? That this video is at heart about a kind of disappointment? About frustration over what's now called a lack of "traction"? You're easily the most talented person I've ever encountered on UA-cam - now I'm wishing I could pick your brain about your plans for the future!
Welp, now I'm saying "did you not get my email" anytime something's bothering or annoying me
KatEarz hahaha I was thinking the exact same thing. I’ll let you know how it goes.
@@afilmbycam so? How'd it go?
Duckbutt Sasuke haha haven’t had a chance yet. Waiting for the right opportunity.
Hey, Dom!
Do what you love. Keep making if it feels natural. We can wait.
I can't speak for everyone but literally all humans adore you.
+
this was really weird for me to watch because it describes literally everything I live and breathe right now,
I've not uploaded in so long and I've done nothing but search and discover creativity again, happiness>inspiration>quality>quantity
Huge respect for actually saying how the gratification of a finished product is not the only factor relevant when creating stuff. I think the sentiment of "as long as one person likes it, it is worth it" has been thrown about a lot, and even if there are some truth behind it, it is important to remind artists, especially young ones, that there are more to it and it is okay to also consider that aspect of creating stuff. Great vid as always Dom.
Thanks and yes! It's tricky advice too, cause I do think if someone HASN'T made a bunch of stuff for the hell of it, that's an important era before they start looking at every single beginning with a sharper eye.
Hey Dom, first of all, I just want to say that I've always looked up to you and the way that you approach making art. The things you make on here never feel like soulless products, and they always feel uniquely you, and I appreciate the hell out of that.
As a creative person who also wants to get somewhere someday with the things that *I* make, I've always kinda viewed making things as a compromise between making the thing I want to make and making the thing that people want to see. But it's frustrating when those don't overlap, so I have to hide the thing I want to make INSIDE the thing people want to see, like hiding vegetables inside the candy. Maybe that's a toxic way to think about it, because I want to believe that if someone makes something purely out of the desire to make it, it'll connect with people and find an audience, but realistically I know it doesn't work that way, and thinking about that bums me out.
I don't know man. Things that you want to make might end up being great "Best Work" things in the middle of your career.
I feel like since I've been viewing your content for 11 years I'll accept anything you put out. That being said, I'd say as long as you're happy with the content, please continue to pump it out. Your music has been an absolute delight and I hope to see more of it on Spotify soon. Moreover, your recent video content has also been some of my favorite on all of UA-cam. Keep taking risks. I know one day it'll all be worth it. I can't wait to go to the movies one day and see your name on the big screen.
Keep working at it, you are one talented guy.
Hello host, the guy
Completely unrelated, but I love that sweatshirt.
Okay now that I can properly comment. I appreciate this video a lot. It's hard to find that balance between quantifying the likes and comments, ect. and whether it geniunely feels worth it to you to make that project. Because while you want to grab someone's attention, and kind of cater to them, you can't just let your own interest be swept aside for, well, money.
hey thanks my mom gave it to me and it's the best thing she's done for me since birth
The way I see it, it's never useless what you make; the videos you make always have a use: to show someone your skills, to entertain, to enhance your on skills, to use in a showreel for a bigger opportunity. There is always going to be a time where you question the point of your craft, but the way I keep going it though with two things I keep in my head:
1. It'll entertain SOMEONE
2. It won't be useless
But are those two things really true? If you’re the only one that likes it, is it useful?
Hi Dom. Dom here. Been watching you since I was in a kid. Even was star struck when i ran into you once at a movie theater. It's awesome to hear that you're still passionate about your craft man, regardless of audience. Dont feel stuck. We all get stuck. You cant be a machine of creativity as much as we'd like to be. Sometimes it's nice to take a break and let your creative juices build back up again. If you're worried about viewers; standby. You make great content and always have. The viewers will come. I literally just got done watching The End, again, and it still holds up even after all this time. Also dont forget about film festivals all over the country that are just a submission fee away from entry. I'm excited to see more from ya. Papa bless.
You have a very attractive brain.
Dang..it's crazy to think that I was watching your videos when I was in middle school way back in the day, and now I'm graduated from college
I feel old.
I think it really sucks when there's a channel or a video that has some really good content, but it's severely lacking in popularity. Two great examples of this are this channel and Exurb1a's "and then we'll be okay". That video hasn't broken a million views yet, unlike most of the channel, but it is one my favourite videos on UA-cam.
Aha! Another one at last!
@@GiantBugs What do you mean? You know who Exurb1a is?
I do indeed
I realise that my comment was vague, I simply meant that I have never encountered an exurb1a fan outside of his comments section. Which is odd considering the size of his fanbase
@@GiantBugs I know, right? It's surprisingly rare.
I watch this every once in a while as a helpful reminder that I'm not alone in the existential questionings of my decisions past, present and future. Thanks for making this Dom. Unlike you, I have no doubt whatever you put your mind to will be truthful, genuine and high quality. Keep on at it!
I’ve been coming to grips for months with the fact that I constantly feel an aversion to share stuff that I’m proud of or passionate about because I have this idea that my art is somehow less important than everyone else’s. I absolutely feel the need to figure out what is worth my time and it has helped me to re-evaluate the kind of stuff that I’m making. Thanks for sharing this Dom 👍🏼
Dom youre one of the first people I've seen on UA-cam back in the early days. And I love seeing you do things that look worth it. Your music, direction and acting all seem worth it as a viewing stand point because I've enjoyed it all.
Nice jacket dude
Can't wait to see more vids from you in the future, and I hope you'll be happy and continue to find meaning in your work.
You're amazing man! A lot of the memories I cherish from middle school and high school, hanging out with my friends and joking, exist because you created what you did, just wanted to say thank you!
You’re the only UA-camr In which my tastes and enjoyment have grown with you. From lazer collection at the age of 10 to now, your content has struck me throughout all of its changing and evolving. I know you’ll hit a breakthrough, rather it be through your creations or through something you never would’ve guessed. Keep putting in that work dom
“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”
This was definitely something I needed to hear - I'm about to graduate film school and I'm currently on internship in LA. People always ask what kind of movies I'd like to make and my answer is usually kind of ambiguous. I know I love cinematography and that that's kind of my "thing," but I know I still don't necessarily have a personal style. So, with all that in mind as someone about to graduate, I feel like I'm in limbo between wanting to keep experimenting/throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks and also needing a direct path. Especially when I make my UA-cam videos, I know that the quality is not necessarily indicative of my skills as a filmmaker because they're just UA-cam videos I make for fun, but I worry that a potential employer might see them and just think that I'm straight up a bad filmmaker, without checking out my more professional portfolio. Wherever I decide I am, this video definitely made me think.
I know the feeling. Taking a moment to sit back is powerful. I think there’s nothing wrong with experimenting and trying to create something that people enjoy because ultimately, as you said, we make films because we want people to see them and feel something. I think it comes down to ambition and goals too. Each to their own. Love your work. I do hope you keep creating! And hopefully they get your email.
Just wanted to say, I've been here since the lazer collection, that was the funniest thing in the entire world when i first saw it back in primary school. It went literally viral at my old school, everyone would quote it and re-enact the stupid scenes from it. It was just great. I think whatever you do, it's gonna be great because you have the ability to make people laugh and you can't go too far wrong with that.
Dom you’re a huge inspiration to me and was one of the people that made me love animation. I love hearing your outlook on creating.
This really hit home with me. I've really been struggling with this question a lot and this video helped me in some way that I can't quite explain. So thank you.
Really feel you man. Perfectly verbalised a feeling i’ve had for a long time. I think its really productive and enjoyable to develop a deeper understanding of how you feel - thats what this video did for me. And as a creator myself, it’s what I always aim to embed into all of my creations. Thanks again for this! Make more!
I think about this a lot, though more in the objectively quantifiable terms. I'm 15 so don't need things to come of the stuff I make but I am aware that the ratio of time I spend making a project:time other people spend on viewing/ listening to that project is very much stacked against me. However, I still keep making stuff fairly regularly and I have been for ages even when no validation or appreciation is there. I'm not really sure why so many people never stop making stuff, even when the ratio is very high.
Just a little interjection, great video (it helped me look at this subject in more professional and long term ways)
Your work has always been an inspiration to watch. I hope that any break or space will give you the time to find something and gain something
Dom, I watched you back in the Lazer Collection days and I'm watching you again now (rediscovered you thru dodie actually), and after watching a lot of your recent stuff I have to say I love how you've grown as an artist. I think it's great you're taking a moment to respect your own time and art as a way to respect your audience. Regarding the idea of posting consistently for its own sake, I say that it's also important to look at the consistency of quality of content as well. You've got a great mind Dom, and I can certainly say that I'll be here to see what you do with it.
THIS SWEATSHIRT??????????
Also I love this video, as always. Thanks so much for your transparency and honesty. Your fans have your back regardless.
Whatever you start, whenever you start it, I'm gonna be here to experience it. You're great and valuable, at least to me. Thanks for making stuff man
These videos of you talking about creative topics like these are often always therapeutic and keep me thinking about my own art a lot, great work!! 👍
Also the whole colour pallete of the video, from the colours of your goofy movie sweater to the backyard are all so complementary of each other, I love it sm
Thanks Dom, love ya, love this video. As I try another year to make a film on a no-string budget, I like hearing stuff like this. You always got my support.
I create things for me, so that i can keep a cool video diary of all my memories. But I know that I'm posting them in a public place, so I want them to be good.
What I want is to make people smile with what I create, I don't have a long term goal, but I hope in the short term I make people smile.
Thanks Dom, I've followed you for years and I absolutely love your honesty!
I definitely agree with what you're saying. I have not made something in months. I've definitely had plenty of ideas in that time, but I keep thinking that what's the point of making something when I'm basically the only person who would see it and kind of enjoy it? Even when I think that making some topical or clickbaity thing would help, I realize that my reach still only goes so far. It's frustrating, but I've slowly been trying to convince myself to ignore that aspect of the creative process and just do what I like to do and make what I want to make. You've done great so far and I know things will only get better for you!
Hey! I just wanted to say that my sister and I have always thought your content was ahead of its time.
Can probably quote "Darren Apologizes" verbatim at this point, about 1,000 views on that vid are from us 😂 I've recently started watching more and more stuff. You deserve so much more recognition that you don't already have, it makes me sad a little that dumb videos get crazy views. Anyway yeah, just a little ego boost for you hopefully so here you go d:
Oohh and POWERLINE WHY ARE YOU PERFECT? 😍
This brings to my mind the differences in how I used to view art and creation: I used to believe that as long as I published a book, for example, I'd be happy (regardless of whether it was even my name on the cover, or if anyone knew it was me, etc.). whereas now i do put more value in gaining credit and recognition. part of the change was probably in the viewpoint of self-worth.. the other part was as you said: the shift from hobby to career, or the search for a way to create sustainably.
always enjoy your videos; they remind me that i enjoy being creative which i often forget !! thank you !
I totally feel that. I am sorta in that exploration phase with my channel and rest of career. I do not dedicate enough time on my videos, but I would say your videos were a big influence for me when I was growing up. I do more writing than filming, mainly because I constantly hit obstacles. For example, I wrote an entire script with songs as well for a Christmas short film I wanted to upload before last Christmas, and it took me since summer to create. Unfortunately, finding the cast with available days were a real struggle. I don’t know if it will have many views, but I’m personally worried about whether it will look as good as I imagined it. If it is, then I would feel good and treat it like a success.
Fantastic video. I've had a lot of this on my mind recently so it's great to hear it put into words here on youtube . com. In the past I've mainly made long form docu-vlog-things, but more and more recently I've been trying to think at the start of a project whether those ideas could be be converted into a better format, like a short film, which may get those ideas to more people and to lead onto other things if it's in a more traditional format. But it's tough to think what might get lost in that translation, as well as what's now going in for myself or for hopes someone else sees myself and thinks it's good. I think recognising your influences can help though, so then when you see your inspirations in your work, whether it's a vlog, film or painting, youre reminded a version of this worked before... and then just blindly pray some random likes it and gives you a big billion to make 3 more. I trailed off at the end there. Good vid.
First, I just need to say, Dom, I have been enjoying your content for at least a decade now. I always look forward to when you upload something on here because you bring something truly special to the table and I am grateful for that.
You've been engaging with your fans in more deep, thought-provoking videos/posts in recent years and I really enjoy that, too, just as much as the rest of your content. I used to dream a lot more about making content for the world, whether it was silly videos in grade school or music for video games in college. I always would look at someone like you and how much you've dedicated your life to doing this and figured since I wasn't doing those things, too, that I probably shouldn't bother. I would still think about potential skits, but just write them down only to be forgetten or start writing songs and make small recordings only to never produce them.
Somehow, I recently started to change my attitude and decided I wouldn't let my life keep passing by without putting my ideas and feelings out there. I started making a music studio in my apartment and began dedicating time to practicing piano to play well again and setting goals to eventually produce at least one album, if not, an EP to show for it.
Ironically, I more recently started to think maybe it wasn't worth my time. Maybe I would make my content only to have the world step on my heart, bashing the art I wanted to share with them or just having to accept I'm not that talented. I don't plan on making a living off of it, so should I really care that much about what people say? My mother asked why couldn't I just do this for myself, just play it for myself and not share it. I said because I already know what it sounds like in my head and I like it and I think other people might like it, too. Even if I never make a penny off of it, I would have at least made something.
There have been plenty of creative people who have entertained me over the years with content that speaks to me, that moves me to laugh, to cry, to think about my life. But you, Dom, have been an inspiration to me. You are one of the most real people about what they do on here and aren't afraid to talk about how hard it really gets. There were some dark times in my life when I would just watch your videos and listen to your music and I would be able to smile long enough to get through things. I hope that someday I can pay it forward and make something that will mean that much to someone else, too. So, thank you for being you and doing what you do, Dom. Maybe someday you'll hear one of my songs and can smile knowing you helped bring it into the world (and hopefully not resent that fact XD )
Love and Miss you man. You take your time with your craft. Love ya
Dom, I went to film school because the work you put out from 2010-2012 was super influential on me. I've since dropped out because, as you said, i felt like the work I was putting in to becoming a known filmmaker wasn't something that would yield fruitful results. That being said, I still have a love of film (specifically screenwriting), but i don't see myself ever truly pursuing it in a professional medium. In this whole process I've learned that sometimes you have to accept that the art you've made/want to make isn't worth the effort it would take to get it as widely appreciated as you'd like, and switch career paths. Not saying you should do this, but switching the path you take (especially creatively) is not something that should be met with such a damning view by artists in general. There's no shame in being realistic.
dom ur cool man, keep fighting the good fight.
i go through that question a lot in my everyday, is it even worth it? is it worth my time or energy? ive stopped creating, and i barely even sing anymore. i dont see a point to it because no one will ever care and it wont make a difference. im not very good at caring about myself or saying nice things to myself but as a Huge fan of yours i would be crushed if you stopped creating. Ive been subscribed for a long time around the time your Danny Webster video went up. and youve always inspired me to just keep pushing through, to keep trying. i watch Deck'd every christmas, and all of it. my personal favorite was The Story Of Santa. it makes me cry almost every time because i find it so beautfil. it fills my heart with a happiness that i dont feel often, and reminds me that there are people in the world who believe in kindness. i will always love what youve created and feel happy when seeing it. but i understand wanting to stop because it feels like no one cares. just know its not no one, it just might not be as many as you dream. which is my problem as well.
Hey Dom, I personally understand exactly what you mean. I reached out to you in a DomAnswers video awhile back about how you push on to the next step when working on a project. I took your advice, but then I quit. I disappeared after a 4 video vlog series because... it just didn't feel worth my time. But here I am now, new camera in bag, ready to tackle a new element of video. As you said, if your making something that isn't you, we will know. Hope to see you back in front of the camera. Been watching for a loooooooong time.
Love the sweater. Anyways, I’ve been subbed to you for a really long time and you’ve always been a big inspiration to my creative mind. My answer to the question is yes, it is important to create something if you are a creative mind because if you don’t you’re always going to wonder “what if?” Even if it can’t be a full time thing, i think it’s always important to have ambitions as an artist and want to make something. However it’s also important to just not make stuff every once in a while. I’ve come to the idea that if you can touch anyone with what you make then you are a successful artist whether or not you can live off it or not. Obviously this is not the majority of thinking but it’s what I’ve come to terms with. Keep up the good sweaters
you should continue the lazer collection specially now people would not mind having a piece of their childhood back in these trying times
This really struck a chord with me. I’m a comedian and writer in the Midwest (currently living in Sydney Australia for 6 months, still pursuing Comedy) and I too have been weighing the worth of what I do. I’ve been working for over two years and I’m only just coming to terms with the idea that it actually matters what the audience thinks of my material and I have to kind of cater to that to a degree. On the one hand, I want to be totally true to myself in the material I write, on the other hand I need to make the audience laugh. And sometimes overlapping those two makes me afraid I’ll cheat myself, but actually it’s a refinement of my skill and finding my niche in the market. Not every idea is going to be worth pursuing, but I think that just means we’re getting quicker at finding the good ones.
As someone who's been subscribed to your channel for about ten years now, I think it's pretty frustrating to see popularity so quickly wane from when you were doing basic comedy sketches and animations to actual heartfelt films. There is truth that artists are somewhat limited by "the market" of UA-cam, especially when the algorithm rewards nitpicky, inaccurate, and often unthoughtful video essays when there are others that are making actual films that get snuffed by the viewerbase.
The reality is that if you don't follow the flow, you'll remain unpopular, but the question that needs to be answered is: does that matter to you?
I tell a lot of my college student peers similarly who are having a hard time finding out what they want to do to do something that they'll hate that'll make them a lot of money, or to do what they love and be okay with living humbly. I think both options are totally acceptable, and in this case, remaining unpopular if that's where your heart is. If however, you're feeling adventurous, I think that you would be particularly talented at doing movie analyses like a lot of other content creators are doing nowadays. You've also always had a talent for comedy sketches which I think the "market" of YT is also kind of thirsting for.
On a final note, I noticed that a lot of your films recently have been leaning more towards a genre of drama which again, if that's where your heart is, there's nothing wrong with it; but it's also a well-saturated genre that many, many filmmakers go to seemingly out of instinct. I would love to see something break that mold, and you have a knack for surreal comedy, making concepts that are so artistically ridiculous that the idea in and of itself is enticing. One such short film you made that I'll never forget and still show my friends to this day is "Kenny Bassender and the Puppydog Racers." That film did one thing and it did it perfectly, surreal humor.
You've got some great ideas and you've shown to be very thoughtful about the whole process of making a film, but when you get a creative idea that's a least a little bit different from what every other creator is doing, turn it up to 11. Be unapologetic about your weird ideas or even different ways of doing things, you're one of the only people that I've seen that can do it and not only get away with it, but be successful with it.
Looking forward to more of your stuff in the future, Dom.
no no no wait. elaborate on dogs talking though.
Love ur channel. Ur short films are my favourite. Recently whatched Elijah and left me questioning. Anyway ur channel is great
Nah I get it, man. I appreciate you kind of articulating my thoughts into words. I'm a cosplay artist and I love making and creating things, but lately, this past year honestly, I haven't had any inspiration to make anything. The materials and tools in my basement are a blank canvas and, simply put, I'm fresh outta paint. To sit and do nothing for a while is okay, and I've just recently stopped raking through my brain cells trying to find an idea and decided to take a hiatus until I find my spark again. Because if I'm not inspired by my own work, nobody else will be because it doesn't look inspired. Because it isn't. And then I wasted all this time on a project that I didn't even care that much about to begin with and yadda yadda. I may not find my spark again, ever. It may spark for something else entirely and I'm open to that. But it's nice to know that I'm not the only artist to have these kinds of thoughts. Good vid.
100% how I'm feeling right now. Great video Dom!
As a writer, this is honestly something I really needed to hear.
My favorite film by you is "The End." I don't know if you find it successful by your definition, or if you feel now that it was worth your time, but I've thoroughly enjoyed that film for years. Seriously, I'm at least 20 of the views on that video. I've always liked the stuff you put out, not because your work strikes a cord in me, which it does, but because it's distinctly you. You have a way of leaving your mark on these projects that doesn't always involve you; take "Away" as an example. Without me going back to rewatch it, you had little to know screen time in that film, but I could feel your heart and soul in it. It was genuinely a fantastic work. You've got a point, people have to like what you out out or you can't really do what you do. Though I feel at this point, you have a large repertoire of experience behind you, and fans that you have that like your "unseen" touch, will like your work. Keep it up Dom, you're doing great.
Fuck yeah, the Powerline sweatshirt!!! I totes forgot about that haha.
Hey Dom, I appreciate you talking about this! I def struggle with this too, and I think the mindset I have right now is:
-Start the creative thing for me
-Finish the creative thing for me but also for more than just me
Cus I think in essence a lot of my ideas boil down to things I’m interested in, and ultimately I make the things to share with other people in an effort to get them interested in the same things I am, because I think there’s folks out there who are interested, and I’d appreciate connecting with them 😊
Honestly, a year ago I wouldn't have been able to empathize at all with this, I was so panicked and scared about graduating and having to get into the animation world. It's just now happening to me where I can say I have a creative direction, and it only really occurred after stepping away from animation and creating for a little while. It let me come back with a fresh perspective, and I feel like now I can see my projects as more than just "other people have to like this so it'll make money" and more "I like this, I'm gonna give it my all, and I know at least a couple other people will enjoy it too." So this video was really meaningful to watch, especially coming from an independent creator I've been a fan of for so long.
A few months ago, Felix Colgrave answered a question about "doing animation wrong" and his response was "no, your training prioritizes turnover and assembly-line animation over actually being creative" and that helped too.
Whether you choose to make or not, whatever you choose to make, I'm here. Because I'm waiting for a proper release of Wolf's theme, as it was playing in the Wolf Is Coming web page in loops.
Hey Dom! You're not alone in this. I just moved out of LA for a year because I had similar issues. I really love what you make, and I hope it all works out :)
Dom, you were the most popular person on the internet with the laser collection. but ur music is pretty damn great. just do something that’ll get you some clout and then go back to normal if you want more people to enjoy what u do or find you but the people that have been here since laser collection, then you just have to keep doing you bro. we all love you
I could really, really just sit down and talk about it. The whole amount of time and thoughts and challenges and failures of all the music projects I wanted to, tried to do, failed to do since I decided that being a songwriter/musician was a good idea for me to pursue at 18 years old. There were so many times of wanting to just push beyond my circumstance and stretch myself to my limits to maybe get that one "moment" and there are so many times of self doubt. It's like waves on a beach. Such is life.
I think partnering with someone who gets a kick out of marketing, or embracing it oneself (if that's your thing) is the key.
In your humble opinion, is it a good sign that an idea/concept is worth my time if it’s one of those things that hasn’t really gone away? Like a lot of my ideas, I get very pumped about it and then ultimately I get a little bored of it. But, this specific idea has been sitting on me for a few years now, and I pretty much think about it every single day.
Thoughts?
I think it is.. if it’s eating at you it may mean it’s the one thing that will fulfill u.. idk but if it’s constantly on ur mind seems like a good indication to create it
I get what you're thinking/feeling too. I would also add that even if you make something that doesn't connect instantly with people, give it time - the right audience will find it. If you truly believed in what you created, then that's all the proof you need that it wasn't a waste of time. I've had stuff sit around for years before someone found it, and it led to something else that I could have never expected.. which again leads to something else. It's all connected. And it's ok to not make art when you're not into it. Can't force inspiration.
Hey Dom!
I don’t know you at all but I’ve watched your videos my entire adolescence. I have the same nostalgia attached to your videos that I do with 2D Disney movies and drake and josh. I never comment on things or give any sort of response to “content creators” because it feels like this weird disconnect but in this video you went from one of my internet idols to just a normal guy talking about the stress in his life. So I just wanted to say man, I appreciate everything you’ve done and your crazy versatile talent from the devil and Danny Webster to deck’d 2 which is my favourite in the trilogy if I had to pick. You’re videos were 50% of my sense of humour alongside Jake and Amir videos in high school. I was bummed I never got to see your Spider-Man radio show turn out to be anything because you sound a hell of a lot like Peter Parker.
In summary, I wish you all the best in your future dude. And Reo is an asshole.
I started youtube over 10 years ago (wow time flies) and I started out doing stop motion animations, then I started doing pivot animations, branched off from those because I no longer had any ideas or stories to tell. I still sit there for hours trying to come up with a concept for film ideas or even animation ideas. and by the off chance I do find a slight idea, I can never fully write it down to create an entire idea. but even though I know just about no one will ever watch them, I would still do as much as I can. ive uploaded a bunch of unfinished work. just too see what feedback id get. which usually isn't anything. and that's okay! we are on completely different levels (10 years in and im still pretty nooby at it) but I feel pursuing what you have as long as its solid is a great idea. so speaking of ideas, id still love to see more wolf based stories. same with billy goat caller and die now or live forever. all of your ideas have been brilliant so far. I feel like you could really go into depths with the displacements, and even the Deck'd series has been a Christmas tradition every year. just isn't Christmas without them. I don't tend to go on facebook anymore but maybe some youtube lives to just chat with the fans could go a long way too for you to run some ideas by your fan base and see what they're feeling, but im not saying just do what others say. you have to decide whether or not you have the passion behind it to keep it going. because having passion for something is a huge part and that's what will make it feel better. I tend to be a lurker on things and don't comment on much of anything, so this feels weird. especially being a long comment most people will skip over. you probably know all of this though. excuse my poor writing skills.
This video reminds me of the Japanese word, ikigai, which when translated to English roughly means "thing that you live for" or "the reason for which you wake up in the morning." It's the confluence of what you love, what the world needs, what you're good at and what you can be rewarded for. I hope that if you've not already found your ikigai, you realise it sooner rather than later.
Making art isn't easy. I spent 8-9 months creating an original cartoon pilot and it got basically no views. It's a really tough balancing act because you need viewers in order to make a living off it, but you also need to have fun creating it as well.
"Creativity - like human life itself - begins in darkness" and "We speak often about ideas as brainchildren. What we do not realize is that brainchildren, like all babies, should not be dragged from the creative womb prematurely" - Julia Cameron "The Artist's Way". If you have not read that book, I highly recommend it more than words can express and if you don't imma give ya 'nother ticket...
this topic is so complex and conflicting! i put out stuff which really no one but my close family and friends see, I only make it for myself and to try and get better at 'the craft' lol. when I'm happy with how something turns out i feel it's worth it... for a bit. and then i just wish more people could see, give me a response, tell me whether it's actually good but that never happens... so I don't feel motivated to make anything else. then i get the urge to create again and the cycle repeats. it's frustrating but i also get the feeling that this may never go away no matter how many people see my stuff? and possibly that an issue in my head rather than anything external? but also i agree you can sort of quantify something being worth it sometimes and i just don't think i've ever got to that point.
Dom You could make what you wanna make I loved your sketchs and now I love your music do what you love and people will come
Food for thought, Dom.
I hate how hard it is to make money from art
Seriously, at the end of the day you're making something that isn't so much "necessary" or a need as it is a "want" and people have to want it a great deal to buy it.
@@TheRealAlpha2 I just think any artist deserves an absence of poverty more than the people on Gogglebox
@@gt123indefatiguability Yep. In a perfect world we'd all be recognized for our efforts, but for now we have to claw for every inch and the only thing you can control is your own satisfaction over your work, and hope enough people agree that will allow you to survive on it.
TheRealAlpha2 I mean if people shared more we wouldn’t have people being afraid of being homeless while others have 3 homes everywhere in the world.
That’s just decency, rich people tend to forget that, they get out of touch.
How can you be happy in world where people around you can hardly eat etc
I don't think I have anything to add about what films you should make. You make good films, and even the ones that aren't perfect are still well-made films. It's your gift; use it the way you want to.
i think i'm obsessed now
you're wearing a powerline hoodie and i'm wearing a powerline t-shirt... cool
I feel the same way at times with music I have pages of lyrics that I don't know if it was worth making but I try to just be happy I made it.
Although I totally agree that we should think about what is worth doing, and for a video I did with my TV station, I emphasized that you would be making unrealistic goals trying to make videos and looking forward too soon of becoming popular especially with things that may not seem relevant, I would have to say I'm pretty guilty of doing that with the videos I'm doing right now mostly because I never know what topics are relevant. Moreover, I can only get lucky making something worth it like trying anchovy pizza, declaring Mountain Dew Kickstart is not an energy drink, and walking through Pottermore Hogwarts as fast as possible.
Holy crap he's alive.
I think it's important just to make what you want and put it out there no matter how bad it is. Its OK to separate your shitposts from your serious stuff on different portfolio spaces but as long as you never stop creating your stuff and putting it out there you can't lose. The only way to stay creative is to keep using your creative bone.
People just want something that has heart and love put into it.
I've been a fan of your stuff since The Billy Goat Caller, and it makes sense that you might feel fatigued about creating things. I want you to succeed, obviously, you're one of my favorite creators Ever. But I also want you, the creator, to be satisfied with what you create. Your audience will be here when you release videos, and we will Like and Comment the SHIT out of them.
I"m uh. Already subscribed, so I uh. Can't. Again. But! The other things.
I think it's interesting how your perspective has changed, and I think it makes sense.
I still find the purpose of making art inherent in the making itself, but then again it's purely a hobby for me.
For you, if this is something you are trying to make a career from, it's justifiable to be more choosy about what you put your energy into.
I hope you are able succeed on your journey.
Totally! I also believe it's EXTREMELY important to make stuff just to make stuff! It's the center of the creative universe!! But that's allowed to have an end point if you're just not where you want to be yet etc. It's a very fair recalculation I think -- but it doesn't mean STOP making stuff to make stuff. No way. I'm just at a point where I'm trying to be more clever at the starting line
Thank you, I have been struggling with this.
A true legend
ive got no helpful thoughts about this but it was a great video!
As a creative person working on comics I said "Screw X, I'm doing this for me," where X was not the customer is was the gateway corporation that was blocking it from getting to those customers because they're the ones that should count in the end. And because of that I started looking for other ways to get my product out to people that are my fans and want to see it. Maybe it's not the same level of market penetration but if I have fans and I have a way to interact with them freely which there are plenty of these days then the people who want to see my stuff will eventually. That may not lead to me ever drawing like an X-men comic or something but maybe I don't need to do that to feel fulfilled as long as I like what I'm producing. yeah I can occasionally make something for a market or a demographic and I have started a couple of projects with different audiences in mind, But I'm far less concerned with getting through a stagnant system to deliver my product to those people and I'm still making something I like because I started out WANTING to make it for those audiences. When the time comes I'll think about broadening my audience to new people, but it doesn't have to be today, because good product stands the test of time.
A big part of finding success is yourself these three questions: What do I have? What do I want? How can I use the first one to get the second one? Also, eat a lot of sugar and stay up late brainstorming. That’s how I get ideas.
The opposite of catering to an audience is to be artistically self-absorbed, and I think we’ve had this myth of a creative genius that just pulls everything out of his head for too long.
im sitting here frustrated with the empty sketchbook in my lap n put on this video
i kinda needed to be told its ok to not make things sometimes,,, as a creative person i find i tie my self worth to what i make and the impact that has and those times when im on creative block or just cant find the motivation to make things kinda tanks my mental health. its a hard habit to break out of lmao
About a year ago in an update/ Q&A video you mention another lazer collection and now I can’t even find any lazer collections on your channel what’s up?
I really connected to this video and I wanna DM you for some advice- or just to talk, y’know? I need some wise advice. You seem wise.
Hey Dominic, have you given anymore thought to the "hosting a script writing class" idea you entertained way back in a Dom answers video?
Cuz honestly right now I would just watch videos on how to write.
Hey Dom.
I'm a little older than you and have had somewhat similar success in the UA-cam Realm with a few different channels. And it was fun. Made millions of views. Millions of people saw what I made and made gifs from it. Freebooted it. Claimed they made it, over and over and over again. It's safe to say that my work has been assimilated into the cultural Zeitgeist of UA-cam/the internet in one way shape or form. And I've got 0 Monetary value and 0 fans that currently follow me on my Social Media. Nothing to show for it.
For a time it defined me. It was okay to not make money from it because the currency that I was accepting was the likes, the shares etc. But as I got older, reality kicked my lil butt and I needed to make money. The passion couldn't bring the bacon so I had to fork over my talents of producing fun/independent content online. I currently still make vids for one of the largest YT channels, but it's not the "Passion" projects that I used to work on. I'm doing what other people tell me to do, but at least I'm making money doing the same thing (kinda) I guess I got somewhat lucky in that regard, but the truth is, It's not what I REALLY wanna do. You know? I think it'd be fun to make vids and make money and be in the public. But honestly... I don't know if I could handle it.
It definitely explains the reason why I've gone off the grid because it gave me a sort of emptiness. The social validation eclipsed the creativity that I once loved. I bet you might be able to relate to it in a way with your Lazer Collection were massively popular and successful, but they represent a "you" from before. Not the "you" now that definitely matters more. It's something that you grow out of.
Idk man. sorry for the ramble. not a lot of coherency. This vid just got me thinkin' and I don't ever get to talk to anybody about internet video production and the dichotomy you're talking about. So thanks for the vid.
Damn, yeah, this is all extremely valid stuff my pal. And it freaks me out to remember we're still in extremely early internet-people times. There's not a path or model for it yet, it's truly happening as we speak. The Bo Burnham's around us are JUST poking out etc...
@@Dom-Fera It makes you wonder if UA-cam is even going to be the main platform in the future too. I guess talent will always rise, the same way that Vinesters migrated to UA-cam after it shut-down. Anyways, thanks for the reply, dude. Keep it real.
I am about to fire my laser.
Does this mean we’re not getting Lazer Collection XVII Return of the Boogerboy?
Just make sure you let us know when your stuff finally gets on the big screen cuz I will pay a metric buttload of money to see it
This was fascinating, but it left me with the strong impression that you never actually did talk about the real subject of the video. You finish up by saying you wish you could tell Younger You that it's OK to stop once in a while, to not always be pumping stuff out. But the video felt like you saying good-bye to unprofitable projects - including UA-cam.
No no I'm not saying goodbye to anything! And I actually think how you just summed it up is entirely it. You don't HAVE to keep pumping stuff out if you feel like you need to regroup and figure out what'll be worth it to you. Being CREATIVE is never about being calculated... but starting a career might have to be. Again, this is just about when you're staring down the barrel of what could be months of work. And sometimes by my own metrics, I'll be entirely worried a project isn't worth it but do it anyway because I believe in it and don't care.
@@Dom-Fera Well I'm glad to hear it's not a goodbye, but even so, the subject - and why it's coming up now (all your references to how long you've been making stuff online, etc.) - confuses me. I mean, would I be wrong to think the word "career" is the key here? That this video is at heart about a kind of disappointment? About frustration over what's now called a lack of "traction"? You're easily the most talented person I've ever encountered on UA-cam - now I'm wishing I could pick your brain about your plans for the future!
Keep doing this.