Ian Miller
Ian Miller always had a passion for film. Growing up under two parents with film careers gave him a solid foundation for film knowledge. He observed from professionals that a steady focus helped them reach goals. So it was a natural decision to enroll in Liberty University’s Cinematic Arts program as his first formal step toward his goal in cinematography.
He flourished in his education and was excited to participate in Cinematic Arts’ first feature film, 77 Chances. During production, the Key Grip who mentored him performed with flexibility and humility that made an impression on Miller. He realized the key to success in film was to “know enough to know you don’t know everything.”
That attitude has sustained Miller through the highs and lows of filmmaking since graduation. It has also helped him balance his career with his family life, which is challenging for many in the film industry. In order to have a good marriage, Miller knew he needed to find a partner that understood and supported his professional passion, too. To help nurture his home life, he also wanted accountability from his church community. Now, blessed with a wife and child, family and community are his greatest treasures: “The biggest thing that makes it work is knowing that this is where I am supposed to be, and this is what God has called me to do, as well as my wife’s support. Whenever I’m not working, I am focusing on being intentional with my family.”
Miller’s recipe of intentionality with humility has earned him success in secondary goals, too. He started a business with his brother called Miller Brother Pictures LLC. The two purchased a grip truck filled with equipment to use and rent out to friends and colleagues. Additionally, he and his wife started a coffee company called Miller House Coffee that has partnered with a local coffee shop in Lynchburg, Virginia to distribute coffee beans. They hope one day to roast their own beans and open a coffee shop. “We just love coffee,” he said, “and we just figured we should start a business to support our habits.” Film workers everywhere can applaud this ambition but especially local Cinematic Arts students!
Miller has worked on numerous productions and endeavors since graduating from college. His attitude offers potential filmmakers insight into both professional success and life balance. While Miller progresses toward his passions and goals, he says he wants not only to be known as a cinematographer someday but as someone who genuinely cares about the people he works with and to love them as Christ has loved him. It is possible to live for Christ while pursuing a film career.
