We were lucky to catch up with Graham Skinner recently and have shared our conversation below.

Graham, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you think folks should manage their own social media or hire a professional? What do you do?

I personally manage my own social media accounts as a cinematographer. In my industry, I believe that social media presents a significant opportunity to connect with new collaborators and fellow artists. By managing my own account, I am able to engage on a personal level with other professionals in the film industry within my area. This direct interaction has allowed me to build authentic relationships and foster a sense of community.

The choice to handle my social media personally stems from the desire to showcase my unique perspective and style as a cinematographer. It also enables me to share behind-the-scenes glimpses into my work, creating a more personalized connection with my audience.

The results so far have been positive. I’ve been able to expand my network, discover exciting projects, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. The direct engagement has also led to meaningful conversations and valuable insights into the preferences and expectations of my audience.

For other business owners, especially in creative industries, considering whether to manage their own social media or hire a team, I would emphasize the importance of authenticity. Being personally involved allows you to convey your passion, expertise, and personality directly to your audience. It’s not just about promotion; it’s about building relationships.

Additionally, consistency and regular engagement are key. Social media is a dynamic platform, and staying active helps maintain visibility and relevance. While managing your own accounts requires time and effort, the connections formed and the insights gained make it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My journey into the film industry started with a love for photography at an early age, which naturally evolved into a fascination with cinematography. I found the power of visual storytelling captivating, and it became my mission to translate that passion into my work.

In my role as a cinematographer, I offer a diverse range of services to my clients. From shooting compelling commercials and short narrative films to capturing the authenticity of documentaries and conducting engaging corporate interviews, my goal is to bring stories to life through the lens.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my extensive experience in various aspects of film and video production. This multifaceted background allows me to approach projects with a comprehensive understanding of the creative and technical elements involved. Whether it’s crafting a narrative, capturing a brand’s essence, or conducting interviews that resonate, I bring a wealth of expertise to each endeavor.

One of my strengths lies in effective communication and quick improvisational thinking on set. Problem-solving is a crucial aspect of any production, and my ability to adapt swiftly contributes to a smooth and efficient workflow. Clients can rely on me not just for technical proficiency but also for a collaborative and solution-oriented approach to their projects.

I take pride in the relationships I’ve built with clients and collaborators, fostering an environment where creativity thrives. What I’m most proud of is the ability to translate my passion for storytelling into visually compelling works that resonate with audiences.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that I’m dedicated to delivering high-quality, impactful content. Whether you’re looking for a cinematographer for your commercial, film, documentary, or corporate project, I bring a unique blend of skills, experience, and a commitment to bringing your vision to life. Let’s create something extraordinary together!

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Building a reputation within my market has been a combination of factors that I believe have contributed to my journey:

Passion and Dedication: My genuine passion for cinematography and storytelling has been the driving force behind my work. Dedication to honing my craft and a continuous pursuit of excellence have allowed me to consistently deliver high-quality content.

Versatility: Being involved in various aspects of film and video production has given me a unique perspective. This versatility allows me to approach projects with a comprehensive understanding, whether it’s a commercial, narrative film, documentary, or corporate interview.

Effective Communication: Clear and open communication is essential in the collaborative world of filmmaking. I prioritize effective communication with clients, collaborators, and team members. This ensures that everyone is on the same page, leading to successful and satisfying outcomes.

Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to think on my feet and find creative solutions on set has been a valuable asset. Filmmaking often presents unexpected challenges, and being able to navigate and resolve issues efficiently contributes to a positive reputation.

Consistency: Consistently delivering high-quality work builds trust with clients and collaborators. Maintaining a standard of excellence in every project, regardless of scale, has helped establish my reputation as a reliable and skilled cinematographer.

Networking and Relationship Building: Building meaningful relationships within the industry has played a significant role. Networking with fellow professionals, attending events, and actively participating in the filmmaking community have opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Portfolio and Showcasing Work: A strong portfolio showcasing my best work has been instrumental in building credibility. This visual representation allows potential clients to see the quality and diversity of my projects.

Client Satisfaction: Client satisfaction is paramount. Going above and beyond to meet and exceed client expectations has resulted in positive referrals and repeat business. Happy clients become advocates for your work.

Overall, it’s a combination of passion, skill, effective communication, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence that has helped me build a positive reputation within my market. It’s an ongoing journey of growth and learning, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the dynamic world of cinematography.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

“My journey in cinematography began as a passion project and side hustle, eventually transforming into my full-time career. The story of how it evolved is a testament to dedication, learning, and seizing opportunities.

I initially started exploring cinematography as a side hustle, driven by my love for photography and a desire to delve into the world of moving images. At the time, it was a creative outlet, and I began taking on small projects to build my skills and portfolio.

Key Milestones:

Passion Ignites the Spark: The decision to delve into cinematography was fueled by a genuine passion for visual storytelling. Early projects served as experiments, allowing me to learn and refine my craft.

Film School Journey: Recognizing the potential in my newfound passion, I took a significant step by relocating from Texas to Los Angeles to attend film school. This move not only exposed me to a vibrant film community but also provided formal education and hands-on experience in the cinematic arts.

Learning and Skill Development: Film school became a crucial phase of my journey, providing a structured environment for learning and skill development. Workshops, classes, and exposure to industry professionals played a pivotal role in honing my technical skills.

First Paid Projects: Armed with a growing skill set, I started taking on paid projects. Positive feedback and increasing demand for my work propelled me to take the side hustle more seriously.

Building a Portfolio: Curating a strong portfolio became a priority. I showcased the diversity of projects I could handle—from commercials to narrative films, documentaries, and corporate interviews.

Networking and Collaborations: Active participation in the Los Angeles filmmaking community opened doors to collaborations. Networking with fellow professionals and directors in the heart of the industry led to opportunities that expanded the scope and scale of my projects.

Transition to Full-Time: The decision to transition from a side hustle to a full-time career gained momentum as the demand for my services increased. I felt confident in my abilities, and the prospect of pursuing my passion as a primary focus was exciting.

Establishing a Brand: Building a personal brand became essential. This involved defining my unique style, values, and the quality clients could expect. Consistency in delivering exceptional work and positive client relationships contributed to the growth of my brand.

Investing in Equipment: Upgrading and investing in professional-grade equipment was a pivotal step. This not only enhanced the quality of my work but also positioned me as a serious professional in the industry.

Repeat Business and Referrals: Satisfied clients became repeat customers, and word-of-mouth referrals became a significant source of new projects. Client satisfaction played a crucial role in the organic growth of my business.

Today, my side hustle has evolved into a thriving full-time career. The journey involved a mix of passion, formal education, networking, and a commitment to delivering excellence. Moving from Texas to Los Angeles for film school was a transformative decision that enriched my understanding of the industry and opened doors to countless opportunities. It’s a continuous process of growth, and I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped my career in cinematography.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://grahamskinnervisuals.myportfolio.com/w-graham-skinner
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gs_visuals/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/w-graham-skinner-97261b194/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@graham_skinner https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10259219/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr5