Meet Ryder Lawhon: Film Director, Editor & Founder of The ‘Cynical Behavior’ Brand

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

Hi Ryder, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I was at the lowest point in my life after dealing with a major injury. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life or what I wanted to be. It gave me a lot of time alone to think and since I wasn’t able to do much for months I began watching tons of films and music videos. Then it hit me, for once in my life I truly felt like I knew what I wanted to do, and instead of just thinking about doing it I just began researching how and got started.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think what mainly sets me apart from other “videographers” or directors is finding a way to make every video I shoot different, or something someone else hasn’t done. It’s easy to shoot a basic music video with cool shots and effects, but going that extra mile and coming up with interesting ideas or shots is what I think will help set me apart. I’ve only been making videos for about a year now and everything I’ve done has been self taught, from the editing and directed, to the cinematography and branding. If it weren’t for the artist I work with and believe in, as well as collaborating and allowing me to visualize their music, I wouldn’t have progressed near as fast or grown my brand near as much. It definitely hasn’t been easy taking the route I’ve chosen but I think being patient and continuing to grow my brand, and handpicking the artists I choose to help represent my brand is what has helped me the most so far. I want to to show the world that it’s possible to do whatever it is you want through hard work, and in the future I want to show the world the amazing talent in Houston.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them shopping at The Galleria or on Montrose to all the vintage clothing stores, and out to eat at the foodtrucks downtown. Then go skate at North Houston Skatepark or my local skatepark ‘Collins’, and maybe take them to some of the museums or just go exploring downtown.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank my family for always being supportive of my aspirations, and not once doubting or judging me. As well any artist that gave me a chance in the beginning when I had to ask if they would work with me. Especially artists such as Yu$e, Z10n, and all artists the involved with ‘Texas Genocide’, for giving me the ability to show the world my vision through their videos, and for helping push me where I want to be. Finally I want to thank my girlfriend @pay_tphotos for believing in me, being my number one supporter, and chasing her dreams as a photography along side me.

Website: https://www.cynicalbehavior.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cynical_behavior?igshid=1rzmh3dscdx57
Twitter: https://instagram.com/cynical_behavior?igshid=1rzmh3dscdx57
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmAxMCwqWx4gFPTXnSDo1qw

Image Credits
Payton Templeton https://www.paytontempletonphotography.com/