Rosa Lia Cannone

Be a sponge—stay curious, ask questions, and put in the time to really learn the craft. That mindset was everything for me early on, and it’s something I still carry with me.

I also always encourage people to keep creating through testing. In our industry, that’s essentially how you build your portfolio—bringing together a team of creatives to make something from scratch, without client constraints. It gives you the freedom to explore your point of view and push your ideas further. Even now, I still make time for that because it keeps you inspired and creatively fulfilled.

And don’t be afraid to reach out. Social media has made it easier than ever to connect with people you admire. Ask to assist, to observe, to be on set in any capacity. Those experiences are invaluable, and they’re often how you build both your skills and your network.

All of that adds up—so when you’re ready to step into a role, you’re not just interested, you’re prepared.

One of the ongoing challenges is balancing different creative perspectives—especially when working with clients who are closely involved in the process. There can be moments where visions don’t fully align, so a big part of my role is finding that middle ground—listening, translating ideas, and guiding the work in a way that still elevates the final outcome while meeting their goals.

Another shift I’m navigating is the impact of AI on the creative process. It’s opening up new possibilities and efficiencies, but it’s also changing how teams are structured. I’ve already seen projects where certain roles, like set design or prop styling, are being replaced with AI-generated environments.

For me, it’s about finding the balance—embracing the tools where they enhance the work, while still advocating for the value of human creativity and collaboration. I think the challenge, and opportunity, is learning how to integrate AI in a way that supports the craft rather than replaces it.

Professionally, I value clarity of vision, collaboration, and trust. Translating a creative vision into something others can believe in and execute against is core to how I work. I enjoy building a strong point of view and bringing the right people together to elevate it—creating an environment where everyone feels aligned and motivated to do their best work.

I also value consistency and accountability.

Personally, I value balance and connection. I have a husband and a daughter, so spending quality time with my family is really important to me. It keeps me grounded and gives me perspective outside of work.

I’m also very committed to staying active—fitness is a big part of my routine. It helps me maintain energy, focus, and a clear mindset, which ultimately shows up in how I lead and create.