We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Duane Martin Jr a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Duane , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us a story about a time you failed?

As a photographer, I have always prided myself on my ability to capture the perfect shot. So, when I was hired to photograph a high-profile event , I was confident in my skills and excited for the opportunity. However, things did not go as planned.

On the day of the event, I arrived early to scout out the location and prepare my equipment. But as the event was about to began, I realized that I had forgotten to check the lighting conditions and adjust my camera settings accordingly. As a result, many of the photos came out overexposed or blurry, and I knew that I had failed to capture the beauty and emotion of the event in my early days as a photographer.

In the aftermath of the event, I was devastated. I had let down my clients, and I felt like I had failed as a photographer. I struggled with feelings of disappointment, frustration, and self-doubt. But I knew that I couldn’t let this failure define me. I had to take action to address the issue and improve my skills.

So, I reached out to other photographers in my network and asked for their advice. I also enrolled in a photography course at The Ohio State University to brush up on my technical skills and learn new techniques. And most importantly, I took the time to reflect on what had gone wrong and how I could prevent it from happening again in the future.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of preparation and attention to detail. I realized that even the most experienced professionals can make mistakes, and that it’s important to take responsibility for those mistakes and learn from them. I also learned that failure can be a valuable opportunity for growth and self-improvement.

Today, I approach every shoot with a renewed sense of focus and dedication. I take the time to carefully prepare my equipment and settings, and I am always looking for ways to improve my technique and expand my skills. And while I will never forget the disappointment of that failed event and many smilier mistakes shoots, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me and the ways in which it has made me a better photographer.

Duane , 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 partnership brands of judo Inc, Film World Motions, and Scarlet and Gray Event Co.

Judo Inc: Creating Unforgettable Events

Judo Inc is a premier event planning and production company that specializes in creating unforgettable experiences. With years of experience in the industry, our team of expert planners and producers can take your event to the next level. From corporate events to weddings, we have the expertise and resources to make your vision a reality. Our services include venue selection, event design, entertainment, catering, and more.

Film World Motions: Capturing Life’s Moments

Film World Motions is a leading film production company that specializes in capturing life’s most important moments. Our team of experienced filmmakers uses the latest technology and techniques to create stunning videos that tell your story. Whether you’re looking for a wedding video, a promotional video for your business, or a documentary, we have the skills and expertise to bring your vision to life.

Scarlet and Gray Event Co: Music and Entertainment Services

Scarlet and Gray Event Co is a premier music and entertainment company that specializes in providing DJ services , photographers , cinematographers for events of all kinds. Our team of talents has years of experience and can create a customized playlist , art , & motion that will keep your guests dancing all night long while being captured. We also offer 360 booth, lighting, and other entertainment services to make your event unforgettable.

By working with these exciting partnerships, you’ll benefit from our exceptional quality of work, attention to detail, and responsiveness to your needs. We have a proven track record of success, having executed countless successful events and projects. Don’t just take our word for it – check out our portfolio and see for yourself.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Through my art, i can share my thoughts, emotions, and experiences with the world. i can inspire others, challenge their perspectives, and bring joy to their lives. The act of creating itself can be incredibly fulfilling, as i can immerse myself in the creative process and see the vision come to life.

But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the impact i can have on others. My work can touch people in ways you never imagined, bringing comfort, healing, or inspiration to their lives. I can create a sense of community and belonging, as others connect with my art and with each other through shared experiences.

So, if I’m feeling stuck or discouraged in my creative pursuits, remember the most rewarding aspect of craft. Keep creating, keep expressing yourself, and know that your work has the power to make a difference in the world.

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

In the creative industry, reputation is everything. The ability to cultivate a strong brand image and establish credibility is paramount to success. One way to achieve this is through strategic collaborations with likeminded professionals such as brands, models, fashion designers, and DJs

Partnering with well-known brands can have a major impact on reputation. Successful collaborations with brands like Mia Hookah, FOMO Columbus, and Richlooks Studios have allowed for unique projects and campaigns that further establish credibility.

Additionally, collaborations with models and fashion designers offer the opportunity to showcase work in an aesthetically pleasing way. Highlighting these successful partnerships can help build a solid reputation.

Working with Designer CodeNameKai was a turning point for my career. This collaboration was a personal anecdote that elevated my filmmaking skills and expanded my professional horizons. It showcased what can be achieved when creative professionals share their talents.

From hanging at the Local Clubs to Turning to a Collaborative Venture Business Relationship with
meeting DJ OG95 at the local club led to a shared mindset of us organizing events and further enhancing our reputation. Together we were able to build successful collaborative ventures that expanded beyond our initial partnership.

Collaborating with photographer D Lyons proved to be a positive experience for my reputation. The joint photoshoot events we were able to create highlighted the unique skills we brought to the table and further established our respective brands.

Working together as a team with creative friends, K Mo, Dayza Myra, and Tayon, has contributed to building a strong reputation. Our collective success and ability to create unique experiences has set us apart in the industry which the brand JUDO INC was born.

reputation building through collaborations is an essential component of success in the creative industry. By working with others, sharing talents, and elevating each other, professionals can build a strong image and establish credibility. Ongoing efforts and collective success are integral components of this journey, and we look forward to continued growth in the future.      

Contact Info: 

• Website: https://filmworldmotions.square.site
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilovewayneee/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duane-martin-jr-0a0740221
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaWX1-neh7r2p2h_doUdEuA

Image Credits
Film World Motions Lyons Vision Rich Looks Studios