We were lucky to catch up with Mike Anthony recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Mike thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s easy to look at a business or industry as an outsider and assume it’s super profitable – but we’ve seen over and over again in our conversation with folks that most industries have factors that make profitability a challenge. What’s biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?

The most significant challenge to profitability in the photography and videography industry is the pervasive issue known as the “race to the bottom.” This phenomenon sees independent photographers and videographers constantly lowering their prices to outdo their competitors, often to the detriment of their own livelihoods and the industry as a whole. This race not only erodes pricing standards but also has several adverse consequences, including devaluing these services to consumers and a diminishing perception of their worth.

One key aspect of the “race to the bottom” is how it devalues photography and videography services in the eyes of consumers. As professionals undercut each other on pricing, clients may begin to expect unrealistically low rates, leading to a perception that these services are not worth investing in. Clients who prioritize cost over quality may end up with subpar results, further reinforcing this negative perception.

In contrast, consumers typically don’t hesitate to pay skilled professionals like plumbers or electricians whatever they charge for their services. This disparity in perception is perplexing because hiring a skilled photographer or videographer should appear no differently to the consumer. Just as they trust experts to handle their plumbing or electrical needs, they should recognize the expertise required to capture precious moments or create compelling visuals. However, the notion persists that “anyone can do it” with a camera, devaluing the artistry and skill involved.

To counter this challenge, professionals must not only focus on educating clients about the value of their services but also strive to change the perception that anyone with a camera can deliver the same results. Highlighting the uniqueness and artistry of their work can help consumers appreciate the difference between amateur and professional services. Additionally, setting industry standards and promoting fair pricing can play a crucial role in restoring the value and respect that photography and videography services deserve in the eyes of consumers.

Mike, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a dedicated professional with a decade of experience as a photographer, videographer, and skilled drone pilot. My journey in the world of visual storytelling has been an exciting one, with a notable specialty in capturing the stunning Charlotte skyline. However, I don’t limit myself to a single style; instead, I consider myself a versatile creative who has evolved from traditional portraiture to thriving in commercial and architectural realms.

My secret sauce lies in my meticulous attention to detail, honed through years of experience. My initial career in business and logistics has equipped me with valuable skills, enabling me to understand and fulfill the unique needs of my clients. I take pride in anticipating challenges and devising innovative solutions to ensure my clients receive nothing less than exceptional service. I firmly believe that my customer-centric approach sets me apart in the competitive Charlotte market.

Recently, I’ve delved into the world of high-production video work, where I’m relishing the opportunity to push my creative boundaries and refine my skills further. I’m a perpetual student of my craft, constantly seeking new techniques and embracing personal growth. You could say I have a ‘healthy obsession’ with top-notch equipment, which only fuels my passion for delivering outstanding results.

Even though photography and videography have become my full-time pursuits, my love for travel and landscape photography remains undiminished. My wife and I are avid adventurers, never leaving home without a camera and drone in hand. This personal pursuit of creativity is what truly makes me feel like I’ve hit the jackpot. While I won’t claim that “if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life,” I can confidently say that I relish the challenges and savor the journey in this demanding field.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

For as long as I can remember, my dream was to attend film school. Growing up, my favorite hobbies were photography and videography, and I was determined to turn my passion into a profession. However, like many, I succumbed to the conventional wisdom that pursuing a creative career was too risky, and I embarked on a different path.

Fast forward to 2016, I found myself grappling with a lack of passion in my chosen career. It was then that I made a pivotal decision to rekindle my creative spirit. I took the plunge and invested in a camera, viewing it as a way to channel my creativity. The moment I stepped back behind the lens, it became abundantly clear that this was where I truly belonged.

I began my journey by offering free mini sessions on Facebook, a humble start to building my portfolio. With each click of the shutter, my passion reignited. Soon, I ventured into wedding photography, a genre that allowed me to form deep connections with my clients. These client relationships not only fueled my enthusiasm but also played a crucial role in my growth. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients became the lifeblood of my burgeoning career.

As I continued to pour my heart into capturing special moments for couples on their big day, my reputation grew, and so did my business. The trust and appreciation of my clients were instrumental in spreading the word about my work, enabling me to pursue my creative dream full-time. Today, I am living that dream, cherishing every opportunity to document and share the remarkable stories of the people I meet through my lens.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

As a creative, there’s something about my journey that might seem a bit hard to grasp for non-creatives. It’s the emotional rollercoaster I ride while pursuing my craft. You see, every piece I create is a piece of me. It’s like baring your soul on a canvas or through a camera lens. Sometimes, the creative flow is exhilarating; it’s like riding high on a wave of inspiration. But then there are those moments when self-doubt creeps in, and it’s a deep dive into vulnerability. It’s hard to explain the intensity of these emotional ups and downs to someone who hasn’t been through it. Yet, it’s precisely these emotions that fuel my passion and make my work authentic.”

“Now, let’s talk about the pursuit of perfection. I can be a bit of a perfectionist, not because I’m trying to impress anyone else, but because I believe in the potential of what I create. It’s about setting the bar high, always pushing the limits of what I can do. But let me tell you, this pursuit can be a real inner struggle. It’s like a constant dialogue with myself, a never-ending quest to make things better. It can be frustrating, even maddening at times. But it’s this drive that keeps me going, pushing me to improve and refine my craft.”

“And then there’s the whole constant learning and evolving thing. I’m always seeking new techniques, new perspectives, and fresh inspiration. It’s not about being a know-it-all; it’s about staying relevant and passionate. It might seem a bit obsessive, this hunger for knowledge and growth, but it’s what keeps me on this creative journey. I’m not content with staying in one place; I want to keep exploring, discovering, and creating. It’s a wild ride, but it’s a journey I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mikeanthony.photos
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeanthony.photos/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-anthony-594392245/

Image Credits
Mike Anthony Photography