Braden Kopf
Braden Kopf is a filmmaker and live video director based in Charlotte, NC. With a background in broadcast, advertising, and live music, he is a part of the creative team at Elevation Church, creating videos that support the ministry’s global reach.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
I remember being 20 years old and trying to figure out who I was as both a person and a creative. The film projects, music, and sermons coming out of Elevation Church at the time were deeply inspiring. I remember thinking, “This is what it looks like when a group of artists are truly in tune with The Creator.” Now that I’m here, I try to create the kind of work that would have inspired my 20-year-old self.
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I don’t know if I’ve ever had one massive dream as a filmmaker. I grew up as a pastor’s kid and started serving in church production when I was ten years old. Running cameras as a student volunteer eventually led to my first jobs in advertising and local television.
I’ve always felt like God placed the skill of filmmaking in my hands, and my goal has simply been to be faithful with it. I never imagined I’d end up working in ministry, let alone at a church with the global reach of Elevation Church. Looking back, it hasn’t been about chasing one big goal, but taking a series of small steps and focusing on where God has me in each moment.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
Both my faith and my creativity feel like a walk. They’re not destinations I arrive at, but practices I return to every day. I’ve come to believe that God is often more interested in the process than the outcome. The discipline of showing up, learning, trying, failing, and trying again is where so much of the growth actually happens.
In many ways, creativity mirrors faith for me. It requires trust, patience, and a willingness to not always have all the answers. When I’m practicing as a creative, I feel closest to what it means to be made in the image of The Creator.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
I’m honestly not really sure. I’ve never been great at keeping a consistent schedule or setting long-term goals. I have ADHD, so one thing that’s helped me with managing my energy and focus is having a hobby outside of my main creative work.
When I first started working in ministry, I got really into synthesizers. Whenever I’d hit a
visual creative block, I’d step away and spend some time making music instead. Having an unrelated creative outlet gave my brain space to reset, and it often helped me push through those moments when I felt stuck.
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
Having the most talent might get you the job, but being a good hang is what gets you called back for the next one. It’s important to be highly proficient in your field, but it’s just as important to be someone people genuinely enjoy working with.