We had the good fortune of connecting with Paris McDaniel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Paris, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career because I’ve always enjoyed visual storytelling. Ever since I was a kid, I loved going to the movies and even wanted to arrive early to see the previews. I dreamed of being a director of the movies that I saw on screen. As time went on, I knew in some capacity I’d be a creative but didn’t know how I would get there. I went to undergrad at Houston Christian University and studied Mass Communication and Journalism, which led me to working in advertising. After a couple of years, I decided to get a MFA in Film and Television at Mount Saint Mary’s University in LA because I wanted to learn more about the creative and business side of filmmaking. If I didn’t attend grad school, I might have stayed in advertising but not have been truly fulfilled. Now, as a creative, I have no regrets on my decision. Sometimes you just have to take the risk to get to your dream.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
After grad school, I did my best to combine my technical and creative skills, but also had to become more business minded as a filmmaker. It’s not just about directing – you have to think about ways to market yourself and your work in the most authentic way. I was fortunate to work on sets for a few Hollywood TV shows and films, and the biggest advice I’ve learned is to make genuine connections with other artists and build a network of people that believe in you. As a Black woman navigating the industry, I realized I wasn’t a norm. Being Black, I have certain stereotypes and limitations in the film world to overcome, even though I believe I bring a unique perspective to my artistry. Also, being a woman means I have to prove myself in a male dominant field. I look up to filmmakers like Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae, Nia DaCosta, Regina King and Debbie Allen who’ve helped pave the way for upcoming filmmakers like me.

Within the last couple of years, I created my production company, Delfern Productions, which is based on the name of the street I grew up on in Houston. Delfern Productions represents my love for producing and directing original content that speaks to diverse perspectives. My overall goal is to work on all forms of content: music videos, films and commercials – and to continue shaping my artistry.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston is a BIG city and is a cultural melting pot! If someone were visiting Houston, I’d first take them to one of the biggest chain restaurants, Pappadeaux. They have such delicious cajun cuisine and amazing drinks! I love their seafood fondue – can’t ever go wrong! If they want authentic cajun food, I’d take them to Hank’s Crawfish on Highway 6 – they have the juiciest Crawfish. We also have amazing Mexican food! I’d pay a visit to Blue Agave Cantina on Grisby road, they have the best enchiladas and margaritas!

I’d recommend exploring the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park and the Museum of Fine Arts, my favorite places to hang. You can’t forget the drive-in Eskimo Hut for frozen daiquiris to-go. The best in town!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A BIG shoutout to my mom and dad! I’m aging myself a bit, but I remember how much I wanted a camcorder as a teenager and my parents surprised me with it as a gift one day. That camcorder meant so much more to me than what my parents probably know. They genuinely support my passion for filmmaking and I’ll forever be grateful for their support. A huge thank you to my aunt/Godmother for exposing me to indie films as a young kid – you really opened my mind to filmmaking. Thank you to all my close friends who have always had my back. Thanks to my husband for always pushing me and believing in my creative abilities. Lastly, THANK YOU to the musical artists, S0L0M0N, Wyndigo, Mike B. and Indigo Fox, for believing in me and allowing me to explore my artistic visions with you all. Remember me when you all are touring around the world!

Instagram: @delfernproductions

Image Credits
Vic Rodarte and Ryan Gamble.

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