We were lucky to catch up with Bearden Douglas recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Bearden thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
I guess taking risks is the nature of the entrepreneurial journey we partake in. Especially if your in the business of selling your creativity. The product your selling is your brain after all! You risk just not really feeling creative some days you know? Nevertheless, I wouldn’t trade the struggles for any other. Okay, so one risk in particular. I would put it in the life changing category. Like many others, it was quitting my day job in 2021 to dedicate more time to working with cameras and taking that leap of faith into the business aspect of the field. Without a doubt a reckless decision, especially since I was paying for all my gear with that day job! No regrets here though. Now, I did not become a perfect example of an entrepreneur photographer, in fact I am far from it. However, I learned that it was going to be a real struggle and fell in love with it. So I will say take that risk you’re thinking about, and you will know if it is your dream.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Origin story. I got into filming around the time I got into photography heavy. In 2021 I made my first music video. It was fine, but I knew I could do better of course. It pushed me to keep going. My clients hire me to film and edit their short and long form videos now. Music videos, commercials, short films, and more. I’m proud of myself for taking the time to make each project I create special and intentional. Making timeless work is always the goal for my personal work and client directed projects. Everything about working with me starts at a personal level, I feel that’s the best part of working as a creator. Actually getting to know your clients and forming a connection to then create something great.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I built my audience on Instagram and have always preferred the minimal, stay out the way approach. Just focus on releasing what you’re really proud on the platform of choice itself. I also found it helpful to get out there and do in-person networking. Another thing I make a habit is responding to everyone that engages with my work. I realized that no one owes me their attention, and that made me so much more grateful and willing to let people know I really appreciate them. Naturally the same people never forget to engage with my work when I do share it.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
A book that helps me with creativity is Rick Rubin’s ‘The Creative Act’. It helps me ground myself especially in the pre-production phases of my projects. Another book that has helped me on the business side of my work is ‘Negotiation Genius’. Most creatives struggle to know and/or hold their worth when dealing with clients. I’m one of those creatives. This book has really helped me get over the hump of discussing proper pricing for the work I would do for free cause I love it. One video that helped a good amount with the financial aspects of my line of work is Danny Gervirtz’s breakdown on pricing as a film maker. It gives a simple and straightforward approach to pricing as a video maker. Very helpful video.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ezra.gallery
- Instagram: @beardenezra