Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Daniel Thompson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Daniel, thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

One thing about me, since the age that I was able to work, is that I wanted to. The problem that I frequently ran into as a teenage and young adult, was that if I didn’t feel passionately about what I was doing, it was very difficult for me to feel valuable as a employee. I knew the difference between how much my work was valued between a 9-5 at a desk, and how valuable it was with a camera in my hand. Once I realized that I would accomplish a great deal more putting my energy into my passion, being filmmaking and photography, I knew that I had to run quickly towards that. I think that many business owners would agree, that there are times when the pressure of managing your own business becomes a lot to balance. In those moments, it can be easy to think about how much easier it would be to work for another company and live a life with much less responsibilities on your shoulders. However, I’m always quickly reminded that everyone, no matter what they do or where they work, would change something if they could. Luckily I get to do what I love first, and the business side comes after. So, in closing, yes – I do believe that I’m happier as an artist and I wouldn’t change it.

Daniel, 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 entered the film and photography industry at a relatively young age. I first began working with a camera at the age of ten years old, and I dabbled in both “music videos”, “photoshoots” and “short films” until I reached High School. Once there, I was given the opportunity to film and photograph various events, including what my school called “Homecoming Weeks”. During these weeks, we had designated spirit days, a pep rally and a homecoming game – both football and basketball. This is where my first taste of business was born. I would film the entire week, create what I called a “Homecoming Highlight Film”, set up a table at my lunch period and sell them to other students. After experiencing success with this, I was lead to photographing other students Senior portraits and filming my first Wedding in 2009. I slowly made my way into the Wedding industry while working other full time jobs, until 2020, at which time I left my full time job and pursued my career in film and photography full time. I would have to say that decision is what I feel most proud of, in regards to my professional decisions. I wanted to be sure that I was ready and able to dive into my career without any financial repercussions, and looking back, I made that decision at the perfect time.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I don’t believe that I knew this when I was younger, however, it’s very clear to me today. As a child, I vividly remember enjoying the feeling I would get when I would watch my friends view their “portraits” for the first time. The way I would see their confidence come through during the process, and their excitement show when viewing the final cut or image, fueled me to continue shooting. As an adult, primarily working in the wedding industry today, I’m fully aware that my mission in this creative industry is for one of two reasons. The first reason, is that I want to bring happiness to others. I truly enjoy seeing smiles cross my clients face, and making them feel like their best self. Whether that feeling occurs on their Wedding day, during their family portraits or dancing in their first music video — I’m doing my part in making the world a happier place. Even if it’s only for a moment, and even if it’s only for an individual or two at a time. The second reason, is that my work feels timeless. To me, it seems as if when my time is over on this earth, I’ll still have bits and pieces of my art scattered all over the walls of others homes. My films will be played on their televisions during the holidays with family gathered around. However, the best part of this is not that I will be remembered, but that even though I’ll be gone, I’m still bringing happiness to others.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Be yourself — whatever that means. The biggest mistake that I see entrepreneurs or young artist make, is that they force themselves to be creative in a way that is currently “relevant”, or they speak in a way online that they don’t speak in person. The ability to be genuine goes such a long way, and your clients will pick up on it. Loving what you do, being consistent with your work ethic and sharing that with others is all that success really requires when it comes to your social media success.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @dtfap
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/dtfap
• Twitter: @daanielthompson