Finely Sliced: Feeling the Rhythm with Dominik Braz Bittrich
Dominik Braz Bittrich has a natural flair for lifestyle and storytelling. His portfolio boasts collaborations with distinguished directors and brands alike, from Glenn Kitson and Vitali Gelwich, to Amazon, Google, Nike, Mercedes AMG and Yves Saint Laurent. Through his passion, he steers his projects to their fullest potential and delivers edits with a modern yet timeless feel.
Now in Berlin with a growing US client base, Dom's technical expertise and emphasis on craft results in work that is both rhythmic and compelling. Dom is represented worldwide by OkayStudio.
LBB> The first cut is the deepest: how do you like to start an editing project?
Dom> When diving into an editing project, my go-to is organisation. A clean project with proper selects is the perfect base for a smooth and efficient editing process. I used to spend so much time perfecting every 10 seconds in a video, now I trust my instincts, creating a rough cut of the full film length. After that it’s always easy to go back and polish the full thing. But honestly, before placing the first cut I mostly create a sound bed that works for me and showcases the feeling I want to have while watching the final film. From there everything is just placing blocks next to each other.
LBB> Do you have a signature style or any influences you draw on when you edit?
Dom> Absolutely. Editing, for me, is less about overthinking and more about feeling the rhythm. I'm all about crafting immersive videos, keeping it authentic, and injecting a bit of ease – you know, not taking life too seriously.
LBB> In your view, what's the difference between a good edit and a great edit?
Dom> A good edit nails the basics: good pace, engaging, tells a story. But a great edit makes you feel something beyond the technical stuff, it leaves a lasting impression. It's not just visuals, it's about creating an experience that makes you want to hit that play button again.
LBB> How do you read the room when having multiple opinions being thrown at you in the suite? Who to listen to and when?
Dom> Navigating multiple opinions in the editing suite can be a bit of a psychological game. While I can be firm in what I believe works best, the ideal approach is to let others have the feeling they are taking the decision - even if they’re yours. After all, ego has no place in the editing suite. Also, letting go of aspects I might not entirely agree makes everyone (including myself) as happy as possible. In the end we’re all craving to get the job done and drink a margarita after. Smooth operator, easy peasy.
Above: Dom's showreel
LBB> What about OkayStudio are you vibing with?
Dom> OkayStudio just felt like a perfect match from the start. The dedicated team perfectly fits my laid-back yet committed approach and lets me focus on my craft. I love the team spirit and collaborative atmosphere.
LBB> Is there anything about the industry that’s exciting you right now?
Dom> I've always been a fan of observing tech’s evolution. Nowadays, with AI-powered tools and the chance of collaborating remotely – it really feels like a transformative era, unlocking new creative possibilities.
LBB> Who are the directors you admire and would like to collaborate with?
Dom> Mathery, for sure. Alessandro De Leo, Biceps, CLIQUA, Daniel Sannwald, David Wilson, Mathias & Mathias, The Sacred Egg.
LBB> And what’s the dream brief?
Dom> The dream brief, for me, involves high production value with a cinematic feel. I love to read scripts that have a heightened sense of reality, with subversive casting and art direction. If it has subtle comedic elements, I’m in.
LBB> Outside of editing, what are your passions and hobbies?
Dom> When I'm not in the editing suite, you'll find me producing music – another way to let the creativity flow. Staying active is my thing: hitting the gym, cruising around the city, enjoying winter sauna sessions, and doing fun activities with my friends, such as going to the opera or to a monster truck show. Berlin's dynamic energy is a massive influence, and my love for music and fashion keeps the inspiration rolling.
LBB> Drawing on your own experiences, if you could give one piece of advice for someone looking to break into the industry what would it be and why?
Dom> As mentioned before, leave your ego at the door. Also, edit as much as you can and remember the 10,000-hour rule. This industry thrives on collaboration, networking and staying ahead of the tech game. And of course, just have fun with it.
LBB> Finally, what do you think you would be doing if you weren’t working in the industry?
Dom> I couldn’t imagine a life without being creative. I would probably be exploring the world of creative directing. My driving force is definitely the passion for creating and making things happen - just doing it.
To see more of Dom’s work click here.
