Behind every great film instructor is a story shaped by real-world experience, creative exploration, and a passion for storytelling. At F.I.R.S.T. Institute, students in the Digital Filmmaking and Video Production program learn from instructors who are actively working in the industry, and Domonic Crane is a perfect example.
As a filmmaker, studio owner, and educator, Domonic brings years of professional experience directly into the classroom. His journey into filmmaking began in a deeply personal way, evolved through hands-on industry work, and eventually led him to mentoring the next generation of creatives.
This is the story of how Domonic Crane turned a passion for storytelling into a career and why he now dedicates his time to helping students launch their own paths in film and video production.
A Personal Path Into Filmmaking
For Domonic Crane, filmmaking wasn’t something he chose overnight. In many ways, the path chose him.
Domonic’s father attended film school, and although his father passed away, that connection left a lasting impact. Looking back, Domonic describes his decision to pursue video production as almost subconscious, something that felt natural rather than calculated.
Storytelling through film became a way to express creativity while also honoring that early influence.
Film and video production also stood out to him because of its unique ability to combine multiple art forms into one powerful medium. Cinematography, writing, sound design, editing, and visual storytelling all come together to create something immersive.
For Domonic, that blend of art and technology made filmmaking one of the most compelling creative industries to pursue.
Early Career Experience in Video Production
Like many filmmakers starting out, Domonic’s early career was built on hands-on work and learning through experience.
One of his first professional roles was as a videographer for a restaurant equipment company. While the job might sound niche, it gave him the opportunity to work with a wide variety of local businesses across Orlando.
The company worked with numerous restaurants, and Domonic produced video content that highlighted their food, atmosphere, and unique offerings.
Some of the restaurants featured in these projects included:
- Don Julio’s
- Rock & Brews
- The Porch
These productions often involved creating promotional or informational videos about the restaurants, capturing dishes, interviewing staff, and showcasing the dining experience.
For Domonic, it was an exciting way to develop technical skills while also exploring creative storytelling through video.
And as a bonus, he got to sample plenty of incredible food along the way.
Editing for Major Clients and Broadcast Media
As Domonic’s career progressed, he moved into a new role as a video editor for a public relations company. This position expanded his exposure to high-level clients and more complex productions.
Working in a PR environment meant that Domonic wasn’t focused on a single brand or industry. Instead, he edited content for a wide range of clients, each with different messaging and storytelling goals.
Some of the projects he worked on even aired on Bloomberg, introducing him to the fast-paced world of broadcast media production.
During this time, Domonic frequently worked with organizations and individuals doing groundbreaking work, from innovative businesses to professionals developing new medical treatments.
Because of the research required for each project, Domonic found himself learning something new almost every day.
This constant exposure to new industries and ideas helped him grow not only as an editor but also as a storyteller who could adapt to different audiences and narratives.
Discovering a Passion for Teaching
Teaching wasn’t originally part of Domonic’s career plan.
However, after joining the faculty at F.I.R.S.T. Institute, he quickly realized how rewarding the experience could be.
Working with students who are just beginning their creative journeys offers something unique: a constant flow of fresh energy and ideas.
Domonic explains that working in corporate environments can sometimes dull the creative spark over time. But teaching new filmmakers, many of whom are discovering video production for the first time, brings that inspiration back.
Students arrive eager to learn, experiment, and create. Their excitement reminds instructors why they fell in love with filmmaking in the first place.
For Domonic, the classroom became more than a place to teach technical skills. It became an environment where creativity flows both ways.
Students gain knowledge and industry insight, while instructors gain renewed inspiration.
Real-World Industry Experience in the Classroom
One of the biggest advantages of studying at F.I.R.S.T. Institute is that many instructors are actively working professionals.
Domonic continues to work in the film and creative industry outside the classroom. This allows him to bring current industry practices, real production workflows, and professional expectations directly to his students.
Because he stays involved in active projects, he can:
- Introduce students to real production environments
- Provide insight into current industry trends
- Connect students with professional creatives
- Offer opportunities to observe or participate in productions
This blend of education and real-world experience gives students a clearer understanding of what working in film production actually looks like.
Building Big Buddy Rental Studio
In addition to teaching, Domonic is also the founder of Big Buddy Rental Studio, a production studio based in Orlando.
The idea for the studio came after he spent time assisting another studio in the area. Seeing how the business operated sparked an idea: Orlando could benefit from a studio space that offered more creative set environments.
Many studios in the area primarily offer cyclorama (cyc) walls—large curved walls used for seamless backgrounds. While useful, Domonic wanted to build something more versatile.
He began researching studios in larger creative hubs like Los Angeles and Atlanta, studying how they designed spaces for photographers, filmmakers, and content creators.
From there, he developed his own vision.
Big Buddy Rental Studio was designed to offer set-based environments that provide filmmakers and photographers with more creative possibilities.
Rather than focusing only on traditional studio setups, Domonic curated sets that reflect his own aesthetic and creative style.
For him, the studio isn’t just about business; it’s about building a space he’s proud of and contributing to Orlando’s growing creative community.
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
For students hoping to build a career in film or video production, Domonic emphasizes one key trait: creativity.
The media landscape is evolving rapidly, and content creation is more accessible than ever. As a result, audiences are flooded with video content across platforms.
To stand out, creators must focus on authenticity and craftsmanship.
Domonic encourages aspiring filmmakers to stay true to their artistic voice rather than relying on shortcuts or automation.
Great art takes time, effort, and dedication.
He believes the creative process itself is where meaning is found—through experimentation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
In other words, the journey of creating is just as important as the finished product.
How F.I.R.S.T. Institute Prepares Students for the Film Industry
At F.I.R.S.T. Institute, the goal is not only to teach filmmaking techniques but also to prepare students for the realities of working in the industry.
Domonic explains that students are given an environment where they can make mistakes, learn from them, and grow, while still being challenged to meet professional expectations.
Projects often simulate real production scenarios.
Students may work with:
- Client-style assignments
- Collaborative production teams
- Deadlines and deliverables
- Demo reel projects
This structure helps students develop both technical skills and professional discipline.
The ultimate goal is for students to graduate with portfolio material, industry-ready experience, and confidence in their abilities.
Taking the First Step Toward a Creative Career
For anyone considering a future in film or video production, Domonic believes the first step is simple: commitment.
A creative career requires dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to continuously learn. But for those who are serious about pursuing it, education can provide the foundation needed to get started.
Programs like the Digital Filmmaking and Video Production program at F.I.R.S.T. Institute help students build that foundation by combining creative exploration with real-world training.
For Domonic Crane, helping students take that first step has become one of the most rewarding parts of his career.
Every new class brings fresh perspectives, new ideas, and the excitement of people beginning their creative journeys.
And for Domonic, that inspiration never gets old.
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