Mait Hudson — Creativity X Faith
Interview with Mait Hudson Film Director at Elevation Film
It has always been my intention to get Think Very Little outside of Instagram. This is a new initiative to find and introduce new talent in the field of photography, film, directing and cinematography.
Hi Mait, welcome! So inspired by your work. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Mait Hudson. I’m 22 years old, born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. I failed Spanish twice in high school and I hope to one day become a cowboy. I love Jesus, I love people, and I love creating films.
Has making film always been your dream?
I started making skateboarding videos when I was 10 years old, and continued doing that until around age 15. I wouldn’t say I even knew what “film” actually meant back then. My friends were just good at skating and I liked making videos. It wasn’t until I started attending Elevation Church when I was 17 and saw the work they were creating that I fell in love with film.
How did you end up working at Elevation Film?
After attending the church for 3 years and doing a year study in Australia for Film & Ministry, I knew Elevation was the place where I was supposed to be. I had no connection with anyone who worked here, so I just started reaching out to people on Instagram. Meeting up for coffee, just doing what I could to get my foot in the door. After applying and doing a 6-month apprenticeship, I was offered a job as a film director and turned it down. Lol nah I cried like a baby and started my dream job.
Do you want to film only biblical themes? — And does it make it more complex?
I love creating from biblical themes because there is so much truth and power in the word of God. At the end of the day, I want to create work that is real, raw, and has meaning. From that, I hope that it points people to Jesus. I’m not trying to create any sort of Pure Flix type of work, not saying there’s anything wrong with that. I just want to create work that anyone — white, black, green, or blue, gay, straight, big, or small — can connect with and find hope, love, and meaning in their life. At the same time, though, I like going out and shooting buttery frames for the sake of just doing it with no meaning as well.
Lots of Christians struggle being a creative — Does that impact yourself?
I struggle being a creative all the time — not because I’m a Christian, simply because I’m human. But I know I have a God I can turn to, lay all those struggles down, and create from my heart — from what He’s speaking to me, not worrying or double-thinking what other people are saying.
Is there anything you want to say to creatives who are just starting?
Create what you like, what is on your heart. Make the stuff that makes YOU happy. You’ll find so much joy and rest in that. Celebrate the people around you and stay inspired.
Any last words for TVL’s community?
First of thank you guys for reaching out and wanting to do this interview. I’ve been following you guys for so long. I love what you guys have created and continue to create. Super honored to do this interview. I’m excited for what the future hold
Mait Hudson’s latest reel.
Thank you for reading :)
Interview conducted by
Armen M.
Founder & Editor in Chief Think Very Little
Learn more about Think Very Little here — A Visual Research Platform for Visual Poetry, Whilst established and emerging platforms usher in a sea change in the way visuals are created and shared, we seek out those with something to say.
