The Reality of Work Travel as a Creative in the Film Industry.

Traveling for work sounds exciting—new cities, new opportunities, and the chance to shoot high-profile projects. But the reality? It’s exhausting. As a creative professional in the production industry, I’ve been living out of hotels, juggling long days of travel, and working late into the night to keep up with the demands of my career.

Right now, I’m in San Francisco, fresh off a full day of airport chaos and packed schedules. I’m here for business, not pleasure, and that distinction makes all the difference. When you’re constantly on the move, you start to understand why seasoned professionals grow tired of the lifestyle. The novelty fades, replaced by a sense of disconnect—from routine, from loved ones, from a feeling of stability. Unless you're flying first-class and being treated to lavish dinners, the reality of work travel is far from glamorous.

The Challenges of Constant Travel.

For those of us in the film and production industry, travel is often necessary to chase big opportunities. Right now, I’m balancing my creative work, film school, and the incredible chance to shoot for the NBA All-Star Game. But the trade-off is clear: time away from home, irregular hours, and an overwhelming workload.

You don’t get to fully enjoy the cities you visit because you’re there to work, not to explore.

Finding Balance in the Hustle.

So how do you make it work? For me, it’s about finding small ways to stay grounded: making time to connect with people who matter, carving out moments to recharge, and keeping my focus on why I’m doing this in the first place. Opportunities like shooting for the NBA All-Star Game don’t come often, and I’m grateful for every experience that pushes me forward.

But for any creative professionals out there dreaming of a life filled with travel and production gigs, just know—it’s not all highlights and Instagram-worthy moments. It’s long nights, early mornings, and a constant grind. The industry demands a lot, but if you love the work, you find ways to push through. 1% better each day. That’s the goal, baby!