OCTFME RECOGNIZES TRAVIS HOUZE AS THE APRIL 2026 FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH

Washington, DC - The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) is proud to recognize filmmaker Travis Houze as the April 2026 Filmmaker of the Month, for his dynamic contributions to visual storytelling through photography and film.

Travis has cultivated a distinctive voice rooted in portraiture and event imagery, with an emphasis on authenticity and narrative depth. His creative journey began in the early 2000s during high school, where early exposure to photo and video editing tools sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling. What started as an interest in artwork packaging and documentary-style filmmaking quickly evolved into a multifaceted career defined by both artistic vision and technical expertise.

"Travis Houze represents the depth of creative talent rooted right here in Washington, DC. His commitment to authentic storytelling and preserving culture through visual media reflects the very mission of our office," says OCTFME Director and Film Commissioner LaToya Foster. "We are proud to spotlight his work and support his continued growth as a filmmaker and creative visionary."

Travis earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from The Art Institute of Washington, where he refined his skills in composition, design, and visual narrative. He continues to expand his creative and business acumen while pursuing both a Master of Arts and an MBA at the Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School, along with continued studies at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA).

"Being recognized as a DC native in the creative space is more than an honor, it's a full-circle moment that reflects the culture, resilience, and stories that shaped me," says Travis. "Contributing to that creative ecosystem and helping it grow is both a responsibility and a privilege, and I'm committed to pushing it forward for the next generation of artists coming out of the city."

OCTFME continues to celebrate local creatives who are shaping the District's thriving film and media landscape. His dedication to storytelling, community, and cultural preservation embodies the spirit of the Filmmaker of the Month program.

Travis's film credits include "Changes 00:08:46," for which he served as Director/Writer for the segment "Polar Opposites"; "Sounds of the Summer," for which he served as Director/Cinematographer; and "The Rel Carter Culture Tour," for which he served as Director/Cinematographer. Through his work, Travis consistently captures compelling real-life moments that resonate with audiences. He's currently developing "The Go-Go District," a project centered on the cultural heartbeat of Washington, DC's iconic go-go music scene. The script is complete, and he is actively seeking funding and production partners to bring the project to life.

Audiences can connect with Travis and explore his work through his Instagram (@travishouze), his film trailers on YouTube, and by contacting him directly at [email protected].

Click HERE to catch Travis' exclusive DC Radio interview on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 2:00 pm ET available on our SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify.

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About FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) launched the "Filmmaker of the Month" initiative as a vehicle for highlighting the talents and creative contributions of filmmakers that make the District of Columbia their home. The "Filmmaker of the Month" initiative is part of OCTFME's mission to elevate the national and international profile of the District's talented filmmakers.

***If you know of a filmmaker that would make a great future "Filmmaker of the Month," please send OCTFME recommendations using this nomination form.

About OCTFME
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME), an award-winning District of Columbia Government agency, leads the city's extensive efforts to build and support a sustainable film, music, and entertainment creative economy and labor market. Additionally, OCTFME serves as the city's cable television service provider regulator and as the customer service hub for cable subscribers.

OCTFME's extensive portfolio includes:

• The District's government cable access channels District Council Channel (D.C.C), the District of Columbia Network (D.C.N), and the District Knowledge Network (DKN)
• D.C. Radio (96.3 HD4), OCTFME's owned and operated digital radio station, in partnership with Howard University's WHUR.
• District of Columbia Entertainment Network (D.C.E), OCTFME's 24-hour streaming platform available worldwide on ROKU, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV as well as iPhone and Android mobile devices (download the D.C.E Network App or at D.C.ENetwork.com).
• The handling of all of the District's filmmaker production needs including permits, city services, and logistical support, job placement assistance, workforce development and the D.C. Film, Television, and Entertainment Rebate Fund (D.C. Rebate Fund).
• Providing additional support to the creative community through the Creative Affairs Office (CAO) and Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents: 202Creates initiative. CAO showcases and preserves the District of Columbia's rich creative communities throughout all 8 Wards.