Joshua West is a documentary filmmaker based in Lancaster, PA. In our conversation, we talk about what storytelling actually means, his production process, niches, competition, marketing, AI, and how he runs his business along with his wife.

Follow Josh:

https://www.instagram.com/jbawproductions/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-west-0803a0181/

JBAW Productions:

www.jbawproductions.com

Connect with me:
https://www.instagram.com/dylangdelaney/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-delaney-9b8889a5/

My Website:
delaneyvideo.com

0:00 Introduction & Background
1:36 Growing Up in Texas & Moving to Pennsylvania
2:07 Meeting His Wife Through Music & COVID
5:50 Getting Started in Photography & Concert Work
6:32 Transition from Photography to Video Production
7:04 The Importance of Storytelling in Film
8:07 Defining Real Storytelling vs Marketing Buzzwords
9:25 Finding Conflict & Contrast in Corporate Films
12:03 Making Films That Create Emotional Impact
12:54 Pre-Production Process & Client Consultation
14:28 Being a Strategic Partner vs Button Presser
17:08 Maintaining Creative Control with Clients
19:44 Working with Legacy Brands & Real Human Stakes
21:09 Balancing Artistry with Business Needs
23:23 Self-Education & Learning Technical Skills
24:06 Trial and Error Approach to Skill Development
29:33 Marketing Strategies for Video Professionals
32:08 The Challenge of Marketing Yourself as a Video Creator
34:18 Generalist vs Specialist Debate
35:23 Niching Down to Documentary Approach
38:05 Opportunities in Smaller Markets
40:42 Benefits of Central PA Market
42:41 Adapting to AI & Industry Changes
45:14 Community Over Competition Mindset
47:22 Different Restaurants Analogy
48:43 Knowing When to Say No to Projects
50:55 Running a Business with His Wife
55:54 Where to Find & Hire Josh

Recorded on February 10, 2026 in Lancaster, PA.