By Itu Phalane
Welcome to NYWIFT, Chloe Derian!
Chloe Derian is a filmmaker, photographer, and creative strategist who combines artistry and strategy to craft stories that inspire and connect audiences.
With a strong background in marketing and multimedia production, she has led campaigns and creative projects that elevate brands and highlight authentic voices. Her expertise spans event production, photography, and film, focusing on visual storytelling that balances emotional resonance with strategic impact.
Chloe values collaboration and innovation, keeping pace with trends in film, photography, and digital media. She is dedicated to projects that amplify diverse perspectives and spark meaningful conversations.
In our interview, Chloe describes how her multidisciplinary background drives her passion for combining art and strategy to tell compelling stories.
NYWIFT Member Chloe Derian
Can you give our readers a short introduction to who you are?
I am Chloe Derian, a filmmaker, photographer, and creative strategist who thrives at the intersection of art and strategy. I love shaping stories that move people and make brands unforgettable.
What brought you to NYWIFT?
I wanted to join a community of women who are creating real change in film and media. NYWIFT feels like the right place to share ideas, learn from others, and collaborate on meaningful projects.
Can you describe a marketing campaign at Mezrah Consulting that you are especially proud of?
For Mezrah’s 30th anniversary, I built a campaign that honored their legacy while refreshing their voice. From concept through visuals, I led the creative approach, and the result was stronger client loyalty and new recognition in the industry.
How has your background in marketing influenced the way you approach multimedia production?
It always begins with the audience. Marketing taught me to ask who is watching and why they should care. That focus keeps my work both visually compelling and strategically sharp.
How has your experience as a photographer and filmmaker shaped your approach to marketing communications?
Visual storytelling guides everything I do. Whether in a campaign or a film, I approach it like a scene where every image and every beat must serve the story.
Can you share an example of a cross-functional project that combined digital marketing with video production?
I produced a video series paired with a digital ad rollout. I scripted, shot, edited, and aligned the launch strategy so that creative and analytics worked in sync. The project not only boosted brand credibility but also generated new business leads.
How do you stay up-to-date with trends in film, photography, and marketing?
I attend panels, read industry news, and constantly test new tools. I weave these trends into my work so each project feels current while still rooted in timeless storytelling.
What types of projects are you interested in working on in the future?
I am excited to be part of any project where I can bring my creativity and unique perspective. I especially enjoy opportunities that merge film, photography, and marketing in fresh and innovative ways.
Connect with Chloe Derian on LinkedIn and via her websites, chloederian.com and stillandmotions.com.
(All images courtesy of Chloe Derian.)
Itu Phalane
Itu Phalane is a student at CUNY Hunter College, where she studies film and media. In addition to her academic pursuits, she is an aspiring photographer, a passion that complements her interest in film.
Related Posts
Meet the New NYWIFT Member: Carol Welter
Welcome to NYWIFT, Carol Welter! Carol grew up in the United Kingdom, steeped in classical theatre, before crossing the Atlantic in 1977 and making the United States her home. Trained on the English stage from girlhood, she spent years acting and directing before discovering that writing was her true creative playground. Through Masters-level workshops and decades of artistic exploration, she turned her talents toward stage plays, screenplays, and poetry—crafting stories that blend imagination, humor, and heart. A woman who has worn more hats than a Shakespeare festival costume rack, Carol has directed, designed, and shaped productions from the ground up. Now a spirited senior storyteller, she writes across continents and galaxies, drawn to tales of transformation, unlikely heroes, and tender love stories. In our interview, Carol reflects on her journey from the stage to the page, the themes that inspire her work, and the new projects she’s most excited to share.
READ MORENYWIFT Member Spotlight: Shahnaz Mahmud
When award-winning journalist Shahnaz Mahmud set out to write and direct her first narrative film, she landed on a deeply personal story inspired by her parents’ own arranged marriage. And when it came time to a select an editor to collaborate with, she turned to the NYWIFT membership directory, where she found veteran editor Susan B. Ades – the perfect match for her project. Members Shahnaz and Susan sat down with us to discuss their adventures (and misadventures!) making the short film The Blossom, how their partnership brought new elements of the story to light, and the unique path to bringing such an intimate tale to the screen.
READ MOREMeet the New NYWIFT Member: Kate Dolan
Welcome to NYWIFT, Kate Dolan! Kate Dolan is a New York City-based actress with a passion for storytelling. Her commitment to authenticity and restless pursuit of refining her craft is a reflection of her energetic dedication. Kate is interested in playing characters that both challenge her and resonate deeply with audiences. Having been booked for her first feature film, she is already emulating the actors that have inspired her since childhood. Her experience interning at NYWIFT and Prospect Musicals have given her an advantage as a young actress, providing her with a behind-the-curtain perspective on many aspects of the entertainment industry. In our interview, Kate discusses her experiences, inspirations, and goals.
READ MOREMeet the New NYWIFT Member: Alison Hirsch
Welcome to NYWIFT, Alison Hirsch! Alison Hirsch is a native New Yorker, with a background spanning development, production, and representation. She bridges storytelling with commercial strategy, bringing a keen understanding of how content is identified, shaped, and circulated. After graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Princeton, Alison assisted Linda Yellen on her film, which won the Indie Spirit Best Picture and Best Director awards at BIFF. At Little Monster Films, Alison researched potential projects and evaluated their market viability. Following two years at WME in the Motion Picture and Scripted TV departments, Alison recently joined Assemble Media as their Coordinator.
READ MORE
Comments are closed