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

Alright, Braxton thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

I have been able to earn a full time living from my creative work, but it wasn’t easy. Around October of 2021 I was working for a new recreational cannabis facility in central Michigan called Emerald Fire Farms while simultaneously an active full time scholar at Mid Michigan College studying Outdoor Media. Though my school work focused heavily on Hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation, it was all through the camera lens, allowing me the opportunity to expand my workflow and reach out and try new things. This is when I went out of my way and presented my boss with additional services aside from my daily duties. Pleased with my current work and examples I had put together specifically for his company, he hired me on part time to work with his media and marketing team. Within 8 months I had created every design that is on all of the companies products as well as launched 2 my own product ideas into fruition and have designed 2 billboards that sit on major highways across central Michigan. Aside from my work with the dispensary, I have been able to find work with weddings and other companies such as BeAlive. In the fall of 2022 I completed my internship with BeAlive & I will be forever grateful for the knowledge and experience I received. Between Bouncing from my own clients and Emerald Fire, I was learning from industry professionals exactly how thing’s needed to be done. Working with clients like Winchester and Dow, It was imperative to understand professionality and to be on top of your game. Since completing the internship, I graduated from Mid Michigan College with high honors and received an award for scholar of the year. With graduation came a significant raise and at Emerald Fire I was promoted to full time Creative Director. Though it wasn’t easy, it was well worth the effort and sleepless nights I was up in order to stand out and prove I am capable. Now with this new position comes new responsibilities and that includes traveling out of state. With Emerald Fire seemingly growing exponentially, They are expanding beyond Michigan state lines and will soon be in Minnesota. This means I will be taking on a lot more tasks, jobs, and other responsibilities. I am beyond excited to continue paving the way for myself and others in the creative field and proving you should never underestimate yourself and DO NOT stop trying. Expand your horizons, reach for new heights, and do your best.

Braxton, 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?

I got into the industry through my schooling. After attending Mid Michigan College for Outdoor Media, I found my true passion. Telling stories through the camera.

I began with just photography but soon expanded into videography and graphic design. I am most proud of my flexibility and adaptability. While I have several accomplishments within Emerald Fire I am beyond proud of, I am also proud of the work I have done with BeAlive. Working with Companies Like Dow and Winchester are huge milestones, but what I am most proud of is the my ability to adapt to the environment I’m in. I love to tell stories, real, passionate stories of the outdoors, but to be able to carry that passion to a wedding, a dispensary, or anywhere for that matter. I am proud of it.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The goal and mission driving my creative journey is impact. I want to make an impact on the world, not just those around me. Id like to say I have one of the most open minds of everyone I know. I feel for a lot of people, so to see dispute or mis communication upsets me. I want to bridge the gap between people, open their minds, and expand their ability to feel for one another. That’s the goal.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Storytelling. My ability to tell a story is what makes me stand out as a creative director within several markets. Whether it be hunting and fishing, or hiking and cannabis I can tell a story about whatever it is and keep you wanting more.

Contact Info:

• Website: bsportfolio1.squarespace.com
• Instagram: braxtonsheets12
• Facebook: Braxton Sheets
• Linkedin: Braxton Sheets
• Youtube: braxtonsheetsoutdoors
• Other: BeAlive: Instagram: bealiveoutside Emerald Fire: Instagram: emeraldfirefarms

Image Credits
Braxton Sheets