Doug Birnbaum is a filmmaker and photographer specializing in lifestyle, documentary, and branded content. With a passion for storytelling and a deep love of filmmaking, Doug works with clients to create authentic, engaging content that connects with audiences. His work spans commercial, editorial, corporate, and documentary projects, often blending cinematic visuals with real people and real stories. Whether he’s behind the camera directing a film or crafting a still image, Doug brings a thoughtful, story-driven approach to every project. He loves filmmaking, photography, and the process of creating content that has a purpose, a point of view, and a life beyond the shoot.

How many years have you been a judge?

5+

What are your responsibilities in your current role and what do you love most about your job?

Creative Director of Branded Content Media

What inspired you to pursue your career path?

I had a love for filmmaking, especially in the 90s, when there was a boom in independent films when filmmakers rolled up their sleeves and made their own work.

What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?

My first job in the industry was working at ESPN X Games. I learned live production on a large, multi-venue televised event that spread across 5 venues in Los Angeles and had to be broadcast live.

What do you look for to determine excellence in video?

I want to see a balance of both concept and execution.

What initiatives or projects are you working on now that excite you?

www.thelastcattledrive.com – I’d like to trace the origins of the American Cowboy and see where they are today as technology marches forward.

Tell us about a moment of recognition that had an effect on you – whether personal or official? What does recognition mean to you and why is it important in our industry?

In 2018, Doug won his first Gold Telly Award, a milestone that was especially meaningful because it validated the work he and his team were doing in the emerging branded content space, creating original series and campaigns for clients.

Do you have any specific practices you lean on to spark creativity?

I’d love to leave behind proof of my own existence with a body of work that I made.

In your experience, what is a significant change you are seeing happen in the video, television, and/or film industry, and what insight can you share about how to navigate it?

I’ve seen huge changes. I started working in television in 2001 around Los Angeles and we saw a lot of shifts, changes, and trends, to name a few: reality, streaming, social media, branded content, OTT advertising and influencer marketing.

What excites you about judging for the Telly Awards?

I like to see where the work is today and where it is going tomorrow. Because of the broad range of categories, the Telly Awards are a good place for this.