Why It's Important to Work with a Colorado Documentary Director

Exposition: The Call of the Colorado Wild

There’s something uniquely captivating about Colorado. Maybe it’s the way the mountains seem to touch the sky, or how the air feels crisp and clean, invigorating anyone who breathes it in. Or perhaps it’s the people—adventurous, resilient, deeply connected to the land they call home. For a storyteller, especially one wielding a camera, Colorado isn’t just a place; it’s a muse, a canvas where stories are painted in the most vivid of colors.

I remember my first major project as a Colorado documentary director, capturing the essence of the outdoor lifestyle with "The Mountain Guide". The project took me deep into the backcountry of the Rocky Mountains, where I followed a mountain guide training for his international mountain guiding certification. The sun filtered through the dense branches, casting a mystical glow on everything it touched. It was in that moment I realized the potential of this state—not just as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing character in the stories I was destined to tell.

Colorado’s landscapes are awe-inspiring, but it’s the stories of the people who inhabit this rugged terrain that truly give life to the films I create. From the climbers scaling the sheer faces of the Flatirons to the environmentalists fighting to protect the state’s natural resources, there’s a deep well of narratives here waiting to be uncovered.

Development: Crafting Narratives with Heart

As I delved deeper into my career, I discovered that the stories Colorado has to offer are as diverse as its landscapes. The challenge was clear: how could I, as a Colorado documentary director, do justice to these narratives while also helping brands tell their own stories? The answer lay in a format that blends the authenticity of documentary filmmaking with the strategic messaging of brand marketing—branded documentaries.

Branded documentaries are more than just a trendy marketing tool; they’re an opportunity to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. In a world saturated with ads and promotions, people are yearning for something real, something that resonates with their own experiences. Colorado, with its raw beauty and compelling stories, provides the perfect setting for these films.

One of my favorite projects was a “How to Ski Tour Series” where I collaborated with professional mountain athletes and La Sportiva, a leading outdoor gear brand. We wanted to create a branded documentary that showcased their products, but we didn’t want it to feel like just another commercial. Together, we decided to tell the story of one of their athletes as they prepared for an ambitious ski season in the Rockies. This wasn’t just about showing off the gear; it was about highlighting the grit, determination, and camaraderie that define Colorado’s skiing community.

We spent weeks in the field, capturing every detail—from the grueling training sessions to the moment the athletes reached the summit. The result was a film that didn’t just promote a product, but told a story of perseverance, adventure, and the unique spirit of Colorado. This project reminded me of why I love being a Colorado documentary director: it’s not just about creating beautiful images; it’s about telling stories that matter.

The Power of Authenticity in Branded Documentaries

The key to a successful branded documentary lies in its authenticity. It’s about finding the intersection between a brand’s message and a story that resonates with real people. This isn’t always easy, but in Colorado, the stories are as genuine as they come.

Take, for example, my work on "Unseen Peaks," a documentary that explored the lesser-known but breathtaking mountain ranges of Colorado. Partnering with an adaptive sport nonprofit, the film didn’t just highlight the pristine beauty of these hidden gems; it also brought attention to the social issues we need to include all types of people.

The impact of this approach was profound. The documentary didn’t just promote the nonprofit cause of inclusion and accessibility; it connected with viewers on a personal level, showcasing the deep bond between Colorado’s people and their environment. This is the power of branded documentaries—they go beyond selling a product; they tell stories that leave a lasting impression.

Resolution: Bringing Your Brand’s Story to Life

As a Colorado documentary director, I’ve learned that the best stories are those that connect with people on an emotional level. Colorado offers a wealth of narratives that are waiting to be told, and branded documentaries are the perfect way to share these stories with the world.

Whether you’re a local business looking to connect with your community, or a national brand wanting to tap into the unique spirit of Colorado, there’s a story here for you. By working together, we can create a film that not only promotes your brand but resonates with your audience in a meaningful way.

The journey of creating a branded documentary is an adventure in itself. It’s about exploring new ideas, capturing raw emotions, and telling a story that reflects the heart of your brand. And there’s no better place to embark on this adventure than Colorado.

Why Work with a Colorado Documentary Director?

You might be wondering why it’s important to work with a Colorado documentary director specifically. The answer lies in the deep connection I have with this state and its people. I understand the nuances of the Colorado landscape, the culture, and the unique stories that can only be found here. This knowledge allows me to create films that are not only visually stunning but also deeply authentic.

When you work with me, you’re not just hiring a filmmaker; you’re partnering with someone who is passionate about telling stories that matter. I’m dedicated to helping brands connect with their audience through powerful narratives that are rooted in the real experiences of real people. Whether you’re looking to create a film that showcases your products, highlights your values, or tells the story of your brand’s journey, I’m here to help you bring that vision to life.

In conclusion, the adventure of storytelling in Colorado is one that I’m honored to be a part of. The state’s rich tapestry of landscapes and narratives provides endless opportunities for creating films that resonate. If you’re ready to share your brand’s story in a way that is authentic, powerful, and deeply connected to Colorado, let’s embark on this journey together.

By weaving your brand’s narrative into the fabric of Colorado’s incredible stories, we can create something truly special. Whether it’s the rugged mountains, the vibrant communities, or the inspiring people, there’s a story here that’s just waiting to be told. And as a Colorado documentary director, I’m here to help you tell it.

Let’s make something remarkable together. Reach out, and let’s start crafting your brand’s story in the heart of Colorado.

Why We Should Work Together…

When I’m not on this website rambling on about filmmaking, I’m actually out there making films. From crafting memorable branded documentaries to capturing stories and products that move people, I’ve got you covered. Need a filmmaker who can scale mountains, brave the surf, or just tell a dang good story? Let’s chat!

In case I haven’t convinced you, here are three reasons why it might be fun to work together…

  • I believe in stories that stick with you - like campfire smoke on your clothes. The kind that makes you laugh, cry, or immediately want to call your mom.

  • I’m just as comfortable at 14,000ft as I am in front of a timeline. You get me in the mountains, in the ocean and in the editing room, making sure the magic out there really shines in the final cut.

  • I’ve filmed in some pretty wild places, but the best stories are the ones that bring people together. It’s those shared moments -big or small - that remind me why I love what I do.

Let’s Connect!

Roo is a Emmy nominated documentary filmmaker and photographer based in Boulder, Colorado but travels all around the world for his filmmaking career. He has directed documentaries for Patagonia in California, produced films for Outside Magazine throughout Europe and Africa, camera operated for Netflix in the Rocky Mountain West, photographed among indigenous communities in South America, and has received notable recognition in his hometown of Orcas Island in Washington State for his work telling uplifting stories in the outdoor space.

Roo Smith