We recently connected with Director E and have shared our conversation below.

Director E, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I learned the art of visual documentation through engagement. I applied myself by being optimistic, hands on, and curious.

During my reflective period this year, I’ve come to realize that I allowed a lot of opportunities pass me by because I chose to allow another meaningful value of my life overshadow my passion. This disrupted my persistence within the field. Which delayed my learning process physically, but encouraged me mentally to refocus.

The most essential skills in visual documentation are patience and communication. I’ve had success building my relationships with getting to know others in the room that I am in. I’ve found ways that reflects my inner person. And now, just about every event I attend, there’s someone there that knows my work or recognized me from previous events. In this lifetime, with whatever you chose to do, you have to be patient. Allow yourself to grow through the hardships. I was my own obstacle. I made excuses. I stayed in my comfort zone. I began to focus on the how and not the why. It’s okay though, because I am now aware of how my past decisions realigned my person. I just took another path, but I’m now moving forward to continue my journey. That’s all that matters.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve been through a few disciplines within the Photography/Videography Industry. Nightlife, Music Visuals, Festivals, Studio Photography, Wedding Reception, Riots, Photo Walks, Paint and Chills, just to name a few.

But how I got started? Once I purchased my camera equipment, I began reaching out to event planners (more-so the nightlife scene). I would create Recap videos and capture photos. I started in the most chaotic, horrible lighting, environment in the field. I loved it! I loved to see people enjoying themselves, I loved dancing with them; with the camera in my hand. This allowed me to get close to my subject. When at an event you get a lot of discomfort when a camera larger than a phone is pointing at you. People started to trust me because I was enjoying the time with them and that’s what made me stand out, my gentle, openness, calm, but fun approach. I also put together collages. The delivery of those have received amazing feedback!

I am most proud of my comebacks. I’ve taken time away for personal reasons, but that feeling of documenting the culture, the family, the moments that you may not have again is nothing that I can explain. I have what it takes to be the Documentarian I have dream of daily.

I would like for individuals to know that I’m authentic in my expression of art. You’re not receiving a fictional story, you’re receiving life and you will be able to immerse yourself in that moment again and again whenever you look at the photo an or video.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

First off, recognizing that art/media is a path that one could explore and love. Provide classes for students to take in their earlier years. It would have definitely benefited me in all areas of my life because I’m a visual, hands on learner.

Also, providing affordable, in-person learning workshops for creatives of all ages in local communities and bringing awareness to them. I know YouTube, SkillShare, and books are great tools. However, there’s nothing like being in a room of creatives.

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

I want to document individuals life story. I love documentaries and I would love to be able to create my own with motion pictures and photographs.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: instagram.com/_director_e