With over two decades of experience in cinematography and editing, Derek Pfister has built a career that beautifully balances artistry, resilience, and collaboration. From founding Chair on Stair Films in Wisconsin to seeing his work screened at Cannes, Derek has consistently proven that storytelling can begin with the simplest of ideas and evolve into powerful, lasting visuals. Through challenges, risks, and countless hours of dedication, he has carved a path that not only highlights his own craft but also uplifts the filmmaking community around him. Today, we dive into Derek’s world—his inspirations, his milestones, and the vision that continues to drive him forward.

Derek Pfister

Derek, you’ve been behind the camera for over 20 years. What continues to excite you every time you pick up a lens?

I love the escape from everyday reality that filmmaking provides. Collaborating with my team and other creatives to bring a story to life continues to excite me every time I step behind the camera. My documentaries and films allow me to express my authentic self and showcase what I’m capable of as a storyteller. With The Next Frame documentary series, I’ve been able to highlight the journeys of other filmmakers while growing in my own craft. That ongoing balance of creativity, collaboration, and discovery keeps me inspired.

Chair on Stair Films started from such a unique name and personal story. What does that name mean to you today, after everything you and your team have accomplished?

For me, Chair on Stair Films has always been about creating with an open mind and transforming simple concepts into something fresh and impactful. The name itself is a reminder that inspiration can come from the most ordinary places, yet still grow into something memorable. My team and I embrace that philosophy with every project—taking ideas, whether simple or complex, and bringing them to life through the lens of our cameras. We believe stories don’t need to be complicated to make an impact, and that mindset guides everything we create.

Many filmmakers say their careers hinge on taking risks. Looking back, how did filming those first weddings change your perspective on storytelling and opportunity?

After filming back-to-back weddings early in my career, my first thought was, “I actually survived that, all on my own?” I quickly realized that while I managed, weddings are truly a team effort. That experience taught me two important lessons: never sell yourself short, and recognize the power of collaboration. Taking on something as significant as capturing a couple’s wedding day was a huge risk, but it proved to me and to others that I could handle the responsibility. There are no second takes with moments that are meaningful. From then on, I carried a stronger sense of confidence in my abilities, which shaped how I approach every project and opportunity as a filmmaker today.

Your journey includes moments of rejection, yet you’ve turned them into fuel for growth. What advice would you give to younger filmmakers facing that same discouragement?

Never let rejection hinder your creativity. Not everyone will connect with your work, your style, or your perspective, and that’s part of the creative process. Each person brings a unique view, and some will resonate with your vision while others may not. The key is to keep creating, especially seeing a project through from start to finish, that in itself is a significant achievement many creatives never claim. Stay committed to your craft, trust your instincts, and focus on the work you can control. Over time, your persistence will find its audience, and the recognition and success you seek will follow.

The Next Frame shines a light on overlooked creative talent in the Midwest. What inspired you to create a series that uplifts others rather than just focusing on your own path?

The Next Frame is a documentary series my business partner, Brendan Adam, and I created to shine a light on overlooked creative talent in the Midwest. For us, it’s about using our storytelling skills and creative tools to showcase others’ journeys rather than focusing solely on our own. Audiences learn from the artists we feature, and we learn from them as well. Each episode is a collaborative effort, and seeing the creatives we work with grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding. By uplifting others, we all grow together as filmmakers and artists, and it’s that shared growth that inspires everything we do with the series.

In 2024, your contribution to Reasonable Doubt took you to Cannes. Can you share what that experience meant for you personally and professionally?

The excitement didn’t hit me immediately when I learned that Reasonable Doubt was selected for Cannes. Later, messages from our director, Daniel Pico, and others celebrating the news made it real, and the magnitude of the moment finally sank in. After 20 years of hard work, sacrifices, and sleepless nights, it all culminated in this incredible opportunity and achievement. It reminded me that recognition often comes unexpectedly, after persistent effort and dedication. Reaching this point in my career is truly phenomenal, and I’m deeply grateful to the film’s team, my own team, and my wonderful wife, Kelly, for believing in me every step of the way. Experiences like this fuel my passion and inspire me to keep creating.

You’ve been deeply involved in the 48 Hour Film Project. What do you love most about that high-pressure creative challenge, and how has it shaped your skills as a filmmaker?

I’ve been competing in the 48 Hour Film Project in Wisconsin since 2011, and my team is actually listed as a LEGEND on their website for the number of times we’ve participated. What I love most is starting with nothing and creating something complete in just 48 hours. The challenge forces you to tackle every aspect of filmmaking with your team, combining everyone’s skills to deliver a finished film in a very short time. There’s something truly special about not only starting a project but seeing it through to completion under pressure. I also enjoy seeing the incredible work other teams produce, which provides inspiration and opportunities to connect and network for future projects. That combination of creativity, collaboration, and community is what keeps me coming back year after year.

Collaboration seems central to your philosophy. How do you approach working with other creatives while still staying true to your own vision?

Collaboration is at the heart of every film I create. What makes a project special and impactful is the collective effort of everyone involved, the crew, the director, producers, and creatives of all kinds. If everyone simply agreed with each other or only followed a single vision, there would be little room for innovation or uniqueness. I approach collaboration with an open mind, welcoming ideas that can improve or enhance my own vision. I don’t believe in a “my way or the highway” mindset; instead, I value going back to the drawing board and exploring different perspectives. Independent filmmaking, especially, thrives on this dynamic, and I’ve found that the best results come when creativity is shared, nurtured, and allowed to evolve together.

You’ve described filmmaking as a calling, not just a profession. When you look back years from now, what do you hope your body of work will say about you?

When I create a film or documentary, I hope it does more than entertain—my goal is for audiences to learn from it, feel inspired, and be moved emotionally. I want someone to watch a project of mine and return to it, finding something new or impactful each time. If I achieve that kind of connection and reaction, I know all the hard work, sacrifices, and challenges were worth it. At the heart of it, I’m a storyteller, and I feel truly blessed to do what I love. Filmmaking isn’t just my profession; it’s my calling, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.

Lastly, if you could capture one moment from your filmmaking journey so far and frame it forever, what moment would that be—and why?

If I could capture one moment, it would be the moment my best friend and business partner, Brendan Adams, agreed to join me on this journey. Without his support from the very beginning, I don’t think I’d be the professional filmmaker I am today. And when I say professional, I don’t mean I know everything about filmmaking, I see myself as a lifelong student of the craft, always learning and growing. Brendan keeps me grounded, challenges me, and pushes me to be the best I can be. Capturing that moment would symbolize the foundation of everything we’ve built together and the shared commitment to creating stories that matter. Here’s to many more years of collaboration, growth, and storytelling, we’re truly only just getting started.

Derek Pfister’s career is a testament to the power of persistence, collaboration, and passion for storytelling. From humble beginnings to international recognition, his journey reflects not only his dedication but also his generosity in lifting up the voices of others. As he continues to frame stories through light, motion, and heart, one thing is clear—his lens is always focused on capturing what matters most.