Creative Studio Inspiration: How Ryan Kao Revolutionizes Filmmaker Workflows with NAS Storage

For over 15 years, Ryan Kao has captured footage, edited videos, and built a massive archive of creative work. With tens of thousands of folders and nearly 60 terabytes of data, he faced a challenge familiar to many content creators: how to store, access, and manage media efficiently.

His latest video tackles a problem most filmmakers ignore—the chaos of scattered hard drives and disorganized data storage. The solution? Network Attached Storage (NAS).

This article breaks down Ryan’s creative workflow transformation, his NAS setup, and why every filmmaker should rethink their approach to storage.

The Problem: Data Overload for Filmmakers

Ryan’s storage workflow started like most creatives:

• Shoot content
• Dump footage into a random folder
• Edit, export, and move on
• Repeat… until hard drives pile up

After years of trial and error, he ended up with terabytes of scattered data, multiple external drives, and no efficient system.

• Sound familiar? If you’ve ever searched through countless hard drives just to find an old project, you know the frustration.

Ryan needed a scalable, organized solution that could:

• Centralize all his footage
• Be accessible anytime, anywhere
• Eliminate clutter and simplify backups
• Speed up his video editing workflow

Enter Network Attached Storage (NAS).

The Solution: Why NAS Storage is a Game-Changer

Many creatives avoid NAS because it sounds too technical or expensive. But Ryan discovered that it’s simpler and more cost-effective than cloud subscriptions in the long run.

What is NAS?

NAS (Network Attached Storage) is a high-capacity hard drive system that connects to your network instead of your computer. It acts as a private cloud, allowing you to store, access, and back up data without paying for external cloud storage.

Why It’s Better Than External Hard Drives:

• Expandable storage – Add more drives instead of constantly buying new external hard drives.
• Faster access speeds – No more waiting for slow HDD transfers.
• Reliable backups – RAID configurations protect against data loss.
• Remote access – Access your files from anywhere, like a personal Google Drive.
• Collaboration-friendly – Share files instantly with team members.

Ryan Kao’s NAS Setup: The Perfect Filmmaker Storage Solution

The NAS System: Synology DS1821+

Ryan chose the Synology DS1821+, an 8-bay NAS capable of handling massive video files.

Key Features:

• Scalable Storage – Holds up to 8 hard drives, expandable as needed.
• RAID 5 Configuration – Offers 76TB total capacity with built-in redundancy.
• 10-Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) – Fast file transfers, ideal for high-resolution video editing.
• Private Cloud Access – Use it like Google Drive but with zero monthly fees.
• Automated Backups – No more manual file transfers—just drag and drop to safety.

Why Ethernet Instead of USB?

Rather than plugging in via USB-C, NAS connects via Ethernet, which may seem complex at first but is actually simpler and way more efficient.

The Setup: How Ryan Configured His NAS

1. Installed 8 x 12TB Hard Drives – Maximizing storage capacity for large video projects.
2. Connected NAS to Router – Making files accessible from any device on his network.
3. Used RAID 5 Configuration – Ensuring data redundancy for extra security.
4. Plugged in a 10GbE Network Card – Boosting read/write speeds to 500MB/s.
5. Set Up Remote Access – Allowing him to work from anywhere without slow cloud uploads.

The Result?

Ryan now has instant access to all of his footage—no more digging through external drives or waiting on cloud uploads.

How NAS Transformed Ryan's Workflow

Before NAS:

• Shooting → Manually transferring to SSD → Backing up to HDD → Uploading to cloud
• Multiple steps, wasted time, and scattered drives

After NAS:

• Shooting → Direct dump to NAS (instant access, automated backup)
• One step, fully optimized storage, no cloud fees

Key Benefits for Filmmakers:

• Faster Video Editing – Works like an external SSD but holds way more footage.
• One-Step File Management – No need to manually upload, back up, or organize.
• Remote Collaboration – Easily share projects with clients or editors anywhere.
• No More Cloud Storage Fees – Saves thousands over time.

Is NAS Worth It for Creators?

Many people assume NAS is too expensive compared to external hard drives, but Ryan breaks down the real cost:

External Hard Drives:

• A 12TB HDD costs ~$250
• Over time, you’ll need multiple drives = $$$
• You’ll still need cloud storage = more $$$

Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.):

• 2TB plan = $120/year
• 10TB+? Expect to pay $1,000+ per year
• Over 5 years, that’s $5,000+ in fees!

NAS (Ryan’s Setup):

• One-time investment (~$2,500)
• No monthly fees
• Scalable, secure, and built for high-volume creators

Verdict?

If you’re a filmmaker or photographer storing large media files, NAS pays for itself in 3-5 years.

Final Thoughts: Why Every Filmmaker Should Consider NAS

Ryan Kao’s creative studio transformed overnight by switching to Network Attached Storage.

• No more juggling hard drives
• No more paying for cloud storage
• Instant access to all footage—anywhere

For any content creator, filmmaker, or photographer, investing in NAS storage means more efficiency, more security, and long-term savings.

Thinking about upgrading your storage?

Check out Ryan’s recommended setup and start future-proofing your workflow today!