We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Gary Watkins a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Gary thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
I was bouncing job to job to find a stable enough income that can maintain my lifestyle and responsibilities as a young adult. Eventually I found a job that paid good for where I was in my life at the time. But it wasn’t something I wanted to do long term. I started my brand/ business after I finish school, while I was still working at the job. The job I was working at the time was not allowing me to invest into my business due to conflict in schedule and how mentally/ physically draining it was. So I changed my title from full time to part time, just so I can work on my business. For the first 2-3 months of starting my business, I was creating content and working for free. During those first few months, I eventually had one video to go viral. Shortly after that viral video, I met my first client that offered me $100 for a project and this is where the story began.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I went to school for Design & Media Production, which focuses on working in the media field. We learned how to use cameras for photography and videography. As well as editing software and how to build websites. I have hands-on experience with the Adobe suite, a variety of cameras, social media marketing skills, etc.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
One of biggest goals is to be able to generate a fully independent income, based on what I can provide or how I can be an asset to my clients’/ peers’ request. I want to be able to inspire the people around me and the ones that will come after with my impact and story.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I always emphasize how important networking is and building relationships can be. I think I have been fortunate to build up my platform and reputation by bonding with my clients, peers, and so on. I am willing to give advice, listen, encourage, and support the people I encounter.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://garywatkinsproduction.wordpress.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garywatkinsproduction/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/garywatkinsproduction/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@garywatkinsproduction
- Other: https://www.threads.net/@garywatkinsproduction
Image Credits
UnreportedbyJ, Lawrence Ray, TALK A LOT TV, BallSoHardFam, Shon Shot Me, ShotbyChriiss