EP 136: The Beauty in the Struggle with Writer/Director Kennard Blackwell

In this episode of Visual Intonation, we sit down with writer-director Kennard Blackwell, a DC-based filmmaker whose work glides between narrative, commercial, and music video. His films are shaped by contrast, beauty, and the unflinching search for emotional truth. Whether crafting campaigns for nonprofits or framing fashion on film, Kennard brings a sharp eye and a quiet confidence to every project he touches. 

From his years as Creative Director at 522 Productions to his freelance directing across eight years, Kennard has led crews, pitched bold ideas, and built visuals that resonate. His approach is hands-on and deeply intentional. He doesn’t just make images. He builds stories that live in the tension between hope and hardship, polish and grit. 

Before the commercial world, there was the church stage. Kennard’s journey began with media work for youth ministries, where he designed graphics, taught students, and directed weekly productions with over 30 actors and crew. The constraints were tight but the creativity was wide open. It was there that he learned how to lead, how to light a set, how to shape a feeling. 

Join us as we explore Kennard’s evolution from Sunday school stage to cinematic storytelling. Hear how collaboration fuels his process, why authenticity matters more than perfection, and what it takes to direct with heart in an industry driven by image. This is a conversation about vision, voice, and the long road between the two. 

Kennard Blackwell (@k_black) • Instagram photos and videos 

Kennard Blackwell - Freelance Film Director/Writer & Editor | LinkedIn 

Kennard Blackwell - Director, Editor & Screenwriter - Vimeo 

kennard blackwell 

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