How to Tell Your Story
At Petersen Film & Photo, we tell stories that change the world.
That’s more than a tagline. It’s what drives us. From the jungles of Malaysia to the redwoods of California, from dusty roads in Uganda to studios of Los Angeles, we’ve captured stories that stir hearts, build trust, and inspire people to act.
Why Storytelling Still Works
In an age of content overload, stories still cut through the noise. The hope is to connect with the person who needs to hear what you believe and the most persuasive person in any room is the one who believes what they’re saying.
Whether you’re a nonprofit leader trying to raise funds, a founder building a legacy, or a brand preparing for a major launch, here’s the truth:
A well told story is your most powerful asset.
What Makes a Great Story?
Let’s break it down.
1. Authenticity
People don’t connect with polish, they connect with truth. Your story doesn’t need to be perfect; it needs to be real. We help clients share what they love most, then help them shape a narrative that builds trust and relatability.
2. Emotional Movement
Compassion opens the heart. Facts convince the mind. But it’s the emotional arc, that is the struggle, the breakthrough, the transformation is what makes people care.
3. Clarity and Structure
Even the most inspiring story falls flat without structure. We coach clients to communicate clearly on camera and in their messaging. Through our on-camera coaching and executive consulting, we help leaders show up with confidence and clarity.
What We Offer: Full-Service Storytelling
At Petersen Film & Photo, we don’t just make videos—we partner with you to tell your story from start to finish.
Here’s how we help:
- Story consulting and narrative strategy
We shape your message, refine your pitch, and build a story that drives response. - Executive and on-camera coaching
We train leaders to speak with impact, clarity, and confidence—whether it’s a one-minute film or a keynote presentation. - Award-winning film production
With credits across 20+ countries, Grammy-winning artists, national parks, and major nonprofits, we bring cinematic excellence to every project. - Campaign building
We work with you to design fundraising, launch, or brand campaigns that carry your story farther than a single video ever could.
Our Global Experience Shapes Every Story
Because we’ve filmed everywhere from Southeast Asia to Central America, and inside ministries, studios, startups, and movements, we understand the unique needs of diverse teams.
We’ve helped tell stories for:
- Bible translation and Gospel movements
- Ministry funding campaigns
- National Parks Service films
- Music industry and tour content
- Product launches
And we’ve done it while protecting the trust and privacy of our clients with full discretion.
Final Thought: Why It Matters
In a distracted world, a powerful story can still change someone’s heart—and sometimes, even change history. But it won’t happen by accident.
It happens when you invest in your story. When you partner with creatives who know how to honor your mission. When you work with professionals who understand that storytelling is both art and strategy.
That’s what we do at Petersen Film & Photo.
Partner with us to tell stories that change the world.
Whether you're launching a major campaign,
producing a fundraising film,
or refining your brand message,
let's dream together to change the world.
Message me at
emailbp@me.com
Brian Petersen - Storytelling Consultant & Film Production
I empower founders, executives, ministry leaders, and nonprofits to craft films that inspire action, raise funds, and build movements. With 20 years of experience producing media for the world’s leading brands, raising funds for major global nonprofit campaigns, and advising Hollywood brands, I bring creative excellence and strategic insight to every project.
Leaders need more than a camera guy. They need a trusted advisor.
What I deliver:
• Directing leaders, founders, and ministries through the storytelling process
• Executive coaching to help leaders communicate confidently on camera
• Messaging development & brand refinement to sharpen key phrases & talking points
• Global creative production from concept to completion
• Proven fundraising storytelling to drive donor engagement
• Nonprofit storytelling & ministry leadership expertise
• Story-driven films that connect the heart and mind
About My Work:
I am the founder of Petersen Film & Photo LLC, based in California, with expertise that bridges both the global music industry and faith-based fundraising world. I serve as a trusted advisor to leaders needing high-end creative production, consulting, on-camera coaching, and nonprofit storytelling strategy.
I have produced documentaries and fundraising films for ministries, nonprofits, and major brands, contributing to large evangelical fundraising campaigns with Gospel Patrons, Illuminations, Jesus Film, Generous Giving, NCF, and more. We’ve seen hundreds of millions committed to gospel ministry.
