Today we’d like to introduce you to David Plante.
Hi David, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2015, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in production and music. During my time there, I had the opportunity to work on major projects with the GRAMMY Awards, Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, Showtime, and several other high-profile productions. After a few years of hands-on experience in video, lighting, and audio, I felt driven to take the next step creatively—starting my own production company.
I returned to my hometown of Detroit, Michigan in late 2017 to launch Rise Media. The original vision was simple: highlight the unique mom-and-pop businesses that make Detroit special through a short documentary-style series. During that process, I created an episode featuring a well-known wedding and event planner, Dalia Atisha, in Bloomfield. After releasing that segment, inquiries for wedding and event videography started coming in—quickly and consistently.
The more weddings and events I filmed, the more I realized how meaningful the work truly is and how much I enjoy being part of these moments. Fast-forward eight years, and we’ve filmed more than 250 weddings, hundreds of events, and grown into a talented team of videographers and editors. Today, Rise Media is a brand we’re deeply proud of—built on creativity, consistency, and passion for telling unforgettable stories.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The first few years were definitely the hardest. Building a steady client base and generating reliable leads was a constant challenge. One of the biggest hurdles was elevating my business from a simple side gig into a full-time career. I picked up small jobs here and there, but consistency was difficult to achieve in those early stages.
There were many moments where I felt isolated in the struggle, unsure of what the next step should be. But it was that discomfort that drove me even further—it pushed me to grow, to adapt and to keep learning. One of the biggest lessons of my career is to always remain teachable. The moment I embraced the idea that there was always more to learn—from peers, clients, mentors, and even my mistakes—everything changed.
That mindset opened new doors, sharpened my skills, and eventually helped turn Rise Media into the company it is today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Rise Media has become best known for filming weddings and events, capturing them in a cinematic, timeless way. I’m incredibly proud of the journey—how far the company has come since those early days—and equally proud of the friendships and connections I’ve built along the way.
One of the most rewarding parts of this work is knowing that we’ve been able to support and collaborate with other videographers, giving them opportunities and helping them grow in their own careers.
What truly sets me apart is the energy and personality I bring to every shoot. Whether I’m working with an event planner, a DJ, or a photographer for the first time, I make it a priority to support everyone involved so the wedding day runs as smoothly as possible. I love creating a comfortable, fun atmosphere—helping people relax, laugh, and feel at ease—because that natural energy always shows in the final film.
My goal is simple: make every couple look their absolute best without anything feeling staged or overly posed. I want their film to feel real, effortless, and true to who they are.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In the next 5 to 10 years, I envision Rise Media evolving into a fully realized creative team—skilled videographers, talented editors, and a collaborative environment where storytelling thrives. My goal is to expand what’s possible in wedding filmmaking, making it even easier for couples to relive the magic of their day in a way that feels vivid, emotional, and timeless.
Beyond that, I aim to deepen my footprint in the wedding industry. My wife and I dream of opening our own wedding venue, creating a space that reflects the same values that have shaped Rise Media: authenticity, artistry, and unforgettable experiences. It’s a long-term vision built on passion, purpose, and the desire to serve couples in a more meaningful way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.risefilming.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risefilming/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/risefilming
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSsR1GN-VARCu0Z8OsvzBLw
