We were lucky to catch up with Brent Mendoza recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Brent, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
Coming out of high school, I wasn’t sure what career to pursue. It wasn’t until a couple of friends recommended I take a photography course in college as it would be an easy credit to gain. I bought my first Canon camera during that time, and feel in love with the craft. My 2nd camera was a Canon Rebel T2i and that allowed me to film video as well as take photos. My buddy Chris made music and I offered to film his first music video. From then on out, it was a snowball effect. Music video after music video, word of my talent spread like wildfire. I didn’t want to stay the same so it forced me to learn everything I know today. Thanks to close friends, who also are into videography and the internet; my talent would far exceed that of my expectation.
Brent, 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?
My name is Brent Mendoza and I’m a filmmaker with 10 years experience in the industry. My passion for videography started in college during my photography class. My work has been seen on MTV, BET, WorldStarHipHop, VEVO, Times Square billboards, and many more. My skills in videography were learned outside of the classroom. I had a couple of friends who made music and offered to film their music videos. Through doing this, I was able to be self taught throughout the years. I think what sets me apart from most directors is the ability to come up with video concepts at last minute. In this line of work, you always have to expect the unexpected. I have done, music videos, commercials and weddings. In the world of filmmaking, everything is up to be filmed.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being in this space is the opportunity to learn and grow from the experience of being a filmmaker. Not just with the technical side of things but also in life. Learning to work with others has shown me what it takes to collectively reach a goal.
How did you build your audience on social media?
At first, I cared nothing of social media and to a degree, I still don’t. The world has changed since I started my career in 2012. I grew my social following by doing what I love. My advice to others coming up, post everything you love. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others for advice or collaborations. Someone is always watching and you never know what kind of audience is driven to your content.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: http://instaghram.com/midkid6
- Twitter: http://twitter.com/midkid6
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrentMendoza
Image Credits
Dustin Blanton Kelltoodope Justin Petrone Jayfem Santana