After decades behind the camera as a director and cinematographer, last month associate member Kelly Mason published a new guide, The Art of Film Consulting, in which she shares how film veterans can support the next generation of creators while staying creatively fulfilled. Here she discusses the shift, the soul of consulting, and why now is the perfect time to embrace this powerful role.
What inspired you to transition into film consulting, and what made now the right time to release a guide on it?
I had just made the bold decision to leave the film industry behind and go all-in on my healing business. For the past 20 years, I’ve been helping people heal deep emotional wounds—especially the ones rooted in childhood.
So there I was, sitting at a spiritual event next to another healer, and he asked me how I planned to market my work. I said, “I’m going to get super active on social media.” And he casually responded, “Well, all the transformational healers I know are making films these days and including me.”
In that moment, something clicked. I looked at him and said, “Well, actually, I’m a film consultant, and I can help you make your film.” And just like that, I pivoted.
Many filmmakers might not be familiar with what a film consultant actually does. Can you break it down?
Think of a film consultant as your behind-the-scenes compass. We help you navigate the maze of development, production, and distribution — especially when you don’t have a studio backing you or a full-time executive team. From script feedback, budgeting strategy, and pitch decks, to legal structure and ethical guidance, we’re your strategic ally.
A good consultant builds a solid foundation so your vision doesn’t get derailed by logistics, burnout, or inexperience.
Your book speaks to both indie filmmakers and seasoned pros. How did you write for both?
I used relatable, real-world examples to make the information accessible for filmmakers who may not have formal training, while weaving in insider tips that speak directly to seasoned pros. It’s not a textbook — it’s a field guide. Something you can flip open mid-project and get a hit of clarity.
Ultimately, the book is about bridging gaps — between old and new, vision and execution, creativity and practicality.
How have your experiences as a director and cinematographer shaped your consulting?
While my years on set gave me a rock-solid foundation in the craft, it’s really life experience that shaped me most.
Juggling motherhood, navigating personal loss, and committing to emotional growth changed my lens — not just for storytelling, but for people. I’m not just bringing technical knowledge. I’m bringing lived wisdom, intuition, compassion, and an understanding of what it takes to see a vision through when life doesn’t go as planned.
For pros considering this pivot, what mindset shift is most important?
Let go of the identity tied to your title on set, and lean into the fulfillment that comes from being of service. Consulting opens up an entirely new dimension. You become a guide, a strategist, a sounding board, and a bridge between chaos and clarity.
What’s your hope for the future of film consulting?
I believe film consulting is on its way to becoming one of the most vital roles in the independent film ecosystem.
A great consultant isn’t above the line or below the line — they operate between the lines. They bring clarity, structure, and calm to the chaos.
My hope is that more industry veterans will step into this role — not just as a fallback, but as a calling. Because consulting offers us the chance to evolve, to be of service, and to help birth powerful stories into the world with wisdom, grace, and collaboration.
The Art of Film Consulting can be purchased directly from Kelly Mason’s website, kellymason.com.
Photo credit: Jeff Weddell
