Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Johnson.
Kevin, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in Detroit, MI. on 7Mile with five siblings. All of us have a measure of art, from singing, to acting, poetry, writing storylines, dancing. Its just something our parents passed down to us. So I’ve always had a passion for art but never honed in on photography/videography until about five years ago. I remember I joined the media department at my church, where I learned to operate cameras, mixing consoles, lighting boards, broadcasting software and master control. I guess you could say God started me in this business and I intend to use this talent to the best of my ability. I started out making little home videos of my 1st born son. I tend to forget things and I wanted to make sure I didn’t forget those special moments. What started out as just something for me and my family, became a passion, maybe an obsession.
I bought my 1st camera in 2015, I think. The Canon Rebel T5. I recorded EVERYTHING. Constantly filming my son, and wife when she’d let me, became my favorite pastime. I remember I got my “1st big break” when a friend of mine mentioned me to a complete stranger claiming I was a good photographer. That was a huge exaggeration… lol. My first shoot was with a local SD rap artist, Badluck Cortez. I remember not feeling too confident, not only because it was my first time, but I was also more comfortable providing video services more than photography. But what I thought would be a disaster became a learning experience. From then on, I have continued to learn more about the photography side of being behind the lens while still staying current with filming. I have now shot music videos, business promos, weddings, and have provided photography services for models, weddings, advertisement, social media, and more. I have a lot to learn but I have a hunger and thirst for what I haven’t mastered.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been a smooth road, but not necessarily a hard one. I guess the main struggle for me in the beginning and even now is getting my work recognized but also being reluctant to share my work because I don’t believe it may be good enough. I am “self-taught,” which really means I went to YouTube University and i learni through trial and error. I am confident of my ability however, at times I have some doubt that may seep in depending on the project. But I did say I worked in a church, so I am constantly asking God for strength and trust in His ability more than my own. Usually, after talking with Him, worry, fear and lack of confidence disappears and I’m ready to go. But the biggest struggles always come from within.
We’d love to hear more about Eyemfocusd Studio.
Eyemfocusd Studio is a videography and photography service-based company. This means I provide both services for different needs such as advertising, weddings, personal, professional, family, etc. The best part about having my own business is if its a job I don’t feel is beneficial for my vision, than I will not embark on that shoot. I specialize in videography as its been my “focus” from the start. I knew it would be a plus if I new photography as well. Which, in case you didn’t know, are two completely different dynamics. I am proud of the growth of my work but I am most proud of the end goal. My goal, and what I think sets me apart, is wanting to create and build my very own theatre. Now when I say theatre, it encompasses a lot. I want people to be able to learn and perfect the love, passion, and obsession that they may have for the arts. So when I say theatre, I would like there to be a stage, a school, an art exhibit, dance instructors, artists, etc. I want a place where you learn, teach, and display your creativity. I believe art is just as important, maybe more important than the other courses you participate in throughout your days of be engulfed by the school system.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
My definition of success is making a difference in the lives of those I encounter. Of course, money is a necessity in this world system, but ultimately, I am here to touch lives, influence, and be an example. When clients come back one day, week month, or years from now and express that my work had an impact on them, positively, then I have succeeded. I don’t my measure of success to be determined by money. Finances and fancy items do not equate success or happiness for me. They are a nice down-payment… lol, but the light I leave in a person’s life is far more valuable.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.eyemfocusdstudio.com
- Phone: 6195698095
- Email: eyemfocusd@gmail.com
- Instagram: @eyemfocusd_studio
- Facebook: @eyemfocusdstudio
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