Hi, I'm Neil Payne, a passionate film director and creative professional based in Costa Mesa, CA. With a Master of Fine Arts from Dodge College of Film & Media Arts and years of hands-on experience creating TV spots, short films, and music videos, I enjoy telling compelling stories and bringing unique visions to life. My work has been recognized and awarded at various film festivals, which has been an incredible journey for my creative career. I specialize in directing commercials and short films, guiding actors, and developing unique storyboards that captivate audiences. I love collaborating with talented crews and musicians to produce high-quality, award-winning projects. When I'm not behind the camera, I enjoy coaching actors and exploring imaginative new ideas in media arts.

Neil Payne

Hi, I'm Neil Payne, a passionate film director and creative professional based in Costa Mesa, CA. With a Master of Fine Arts from Dodge College of Film & Media Arts and years of hands-on experience creating TV spots, short films, and music videos, I enjoy telling compelling stories and bringing unique visions to life. My work has been recognized and awarded at various film festivals, which has been an incredible journey for my creative career. I specialize in directing commercials and short films, guiding actors, and developing unique storyboards that captivate audiences. I love collaborating with talented crews and musicians to produce high-quality, award-winning projects. When I'm not behind the camera, I enjoy coaching actors and exploring imaginative new ideas in media arts.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Neil Payne, a passionate film director and creative professional based in Costa Mesa, CA. With a Master of Fine Arts from Dodge College of Film & Media Arts and years of hands-on experience creating TV spots, short films, and music videos, I enjoy telling compelling stories and bringing unique visions to life. My work has been recognized and awarded at various film festivals, which has been an incredible journey for my creative career.

I specialize in directing commercials and short films, guiding actors, and developing unique storyboards that captivate audiences. I love collaborating with talented crews and musicians to produce high-quality, award-winning projects. When I’m not behind the camera, I enjoy coaching actors and exploring imaginative new ideas in media arts.

See more

Work Experience

Director at RockChalk Pictures
March 1, 2024 - July 21, 2025
Directed a series of successful TV spots, short films, and music videos including projects for Suntory Whisky, DIOR, CHANEL 30, Kings Boulevard, and Arcadia. Achieved multiple awards such as Best Commercial, Best Short Comedy, and Best Director. Collaborated with notable producers, directors of photography, and talent to deliver high-quality productions showcased at various film festivals.

Education

Masters of Fine Arts at Chapman University
August 20, 2000 - May 20, 2000
Master of Fine Arts at Dodge College of Film & Media Arts, Chapman University
August 1, 2002 - May 31, 2008
Bachelor of Arts at Washburn University
September 1, 1994 - December 31, 1998

Qualifications

Film Director
December 21, 2024 - December 21, 2024

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment