Meet Nikki Tripp | Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Tripp of Tripp Films and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I started college, I had no idea that filmmaking/videography could be a career, let alone my business! My first semester I took a class completely unrelated to my major called “The History of World Cinema.” It introduced me to a whole new world, and I immediately fell in love with all aspects of film! Needless to say, I ended up changing my major to Film. Looking back at my childhood, I loved movies and always chose to make videos for class projects, so it makes sense now.

I was able to intern and work for people who owned their own businesses, so I became familiar with that environment and knew pretty early on that I wanted to go that route. I was drawn to the drive and creativity it takes to run your own business and also the perks of autonomy and flexibility. When I moved to Houston five years ago, I really began to explore what it would look like to run my own business. Through a series of providential events, I was introduced to the small business and creative community here and started getting asked to do brand-style films for them. In 2016 I went on an epic road trip along the west coast that completely blew my mind and changed my perspective: I didn’t want to waste any more time doing things I didn’t care about. I had known for some time that I wanted to start my business, so why wait any longer? I came back from the trip and within a few weeks had started Tripp Films.

Let’s talk shop. Tell us more about your career and what you’ve learned along the way, what can you share with our community?
I work with businesses to produce story-focused cinematic films that engage their customers in a meaningful way. My goal is to build trust and connection between a brand and its customers through a beautifully-crafted film. My working style is organic, personal and approachable in order to help people open up and feel comfortable in front of the camera. An honest approach produces a genuine and relatable story. 

Professionally, I believe that kindness, hard work and timely communication go a long way. I think the two biggest lessons I have learned in owning my own business are to trust your gut and that it’s ok to say no. When you do have to say no to people, it’s important to do so with kindness and be direct.