We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alex Curnutt a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Alex, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

My freelance business never began with one big moment or decision. Instead, it started as an undefined project that, through years of trial and error, grew into something both successful and deeply meaningful to me.
It all started when I moved to Austin fresh out of high school, ready to pursue my dreams and a degree at UT Austin. It was here that I discovered a vibrant community of musicians, artists, and filmmakers who were eager for help with their personal projects. Back then, I was so hungry to learn and create that I dove in headfirst, blindly messaging people, showing up to random events, and immersing myself in the scene. I quickly realized the worst thing someone could say was “no,” and that became my driving force.
The “aha moment” came during my junior year, when I became the go-to guy for band press kits and started receiving inquiries from local businesses for social media content. I was already passionate about Austin’s music scene and supporting local businesses, so seeing demand for my work from people I admired most was super motivating. This inspired me to fine-tune my services—offering photos, promotional content, and music videos—and to officially launch the Alex Paradox brand with a logo and website.
Along the way, I realized how vital marketing and social media are—not just for musicians, but for anyone striving to succeed. After years of working for free, taking odd jobs, and pulling all-nighters on edits, I gained a deep understanding of how this content-driven world operates and where I fit within it.
Not to mention, it made me the happiest I’ve ever been. Over the years, I really fell in love with the process of connecting with clients, coming up with ideas, shooting, and editing everything together into something I was proud of. I knew I was on the right track when people started recognizing me when I was out and about. And with a cheeky nomination for Best Photographer of 2023 in the Austin Chronicle, I knew I was in the right spot.

Alex, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

So my name is Alex Curnutt, or better known by my freelance project “Alex Paradox”, where I am a photographer, filmmaker, and content creator here in Austin, TX. My journey began at 12, filming BMX and parkour with friends, which sparked my passion for visual storytelling. That passion led me to an internship with Sugar Productions in Dallas, a degree at UT Austin, and a career collaborating with models, stylists, bands, and brands.
Currently, I create content full time for SnoopSlimes while also working on independent projects, shooting everything from editorial and commercial work to music videos and branded content. My work is all about energy, storytelling, and striking imagery—whether it’s a brand campaign, a music video, or a photoshoot. I love bringing ideas to life in ways that feel dynamic and immersive.
What sets me apart is my ability to blend technical skill with a deep understanding of narrative and aesthetics. I want my work to not only look great but to resonate. If you’re an artist, brand, or creative looking for flashy visuals, let’s work!

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

The game-changers I wish I’d discovered sooner? Pinterest and a good old-fashioned notebook. When I first started, I’d throw shoot ideas together in my head and just wing it on set—turns out, that’s a great way to forget half your plan. Everything clicked when I started sketching concepts in a notebook and building Pinterest boards to keep my ideas in one place.
Now, I map out my shots, jot down notes on how I want to execute them, and pair that with a solid Pinterest board full of poses, themes, and framing inspo. It’s basically a cheat sheet that keeps me locked in during a shoot.
Ever since I made that switch, my workflow has been on a whole new level. So if you’re getting into photography or videography, make writing your ideas down a priority—it makes shooting so much easier.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative is the friendships it’s brought into my life. This industry naturally connects you with people who share your drive, your passion, and your way of seeing the world. Whether it’s working alongside other photographers, collaborating with stylists and models, or just geeking out over gear with fellow creatives, those relationships are what make the long hours and the hustle worth it.
Some of my closest friendships have come from being on set, brainstorming ideas, and creating something out of nothing together. There’s a kind of unspoken understanding between creatives, a mutual respect for the grind and the craft. And at the end of the day, it’s not just about making cool stuff—it’s about the people you get to make it with.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alexparadox.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexparadox/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-curnutt-3708571a1/

Image Credits

Assisted by Hayden Sticksel, Brooke Ellisor, Tori Hodges, and Aidan Wilhite.