We recently connected with Jacques Ketchens and have shared our conversation below.

Jacques , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you tell us a story about a time you failed?

My journey in the film industry began with excitement and anticipation, landing roles on productions as an AC, Prod. Coordinator, and eventually as a gaffer. At just 20 years old, being brought onto a feature film felt like a dream come true, especially considering many don’t see such opportunities until much later in their careers if ever.

However, the reality of the experience was far from idyllic. Throughout the production, I faced relentless belittlement and criticism from someone I had trusted and respected. It was a challenging environment, and I found myself questioning my abilities and worth as a creative. Despite the difficulties, I persisted, even pushing through a painful knee injury to fulfill my responsibilities on set. It was during this time that I came to a profound realization about the importance of confidence and truly trusting yourself. I learned that the words of others do not define me or the value of my creative work. I failed to realize that in the moment of production but it will forever stick with me throughout my creative journey.

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?

I’m Jacques Ketchens Jr, born and raised in South Central, Los Angeles. As a gaffer, AC, and part-time photographer. My journey in the entertainment space began with a childhood fascination for the creative arts, which sparked what would become my passion. Being self-taught, my story operates on partnership, confidence, and perseverance.

In the three years since diving into freelancing full-time, I’ve been fortunate to have a whirlwind of opportunities build me into the industry professional I am today. Straight out of my high school graduation in May of 2020, I started working with Somethin Good, a production company founded by Sean Russo and Stefan “Sid Mason” Stojanovic. This collaboration brought me the opportunity I’d been craving; to fine-tune and showcase my skills as I gaffed & AC’d for several music videos for artists and friends; Asha Imuno, GodlyTheRuler, Tiffany Day, Jasper Typical, etc. Following that, later in 2020, I gaffed my first short film, “Mono No Aware,” which went on to get recognition at the 2021 BFI London Film Festival.

Since then, my career has been continuing to develop with every project I take on. Including joining forces with BEARVISION, owned by BP. Edwards, while also working on projects ranging from cover pieces for notable names like Bobby Shmurda to crafting visually captivating music videos for artists such as Tobi, Rae Sremmurd, Jon B., and Pink Siffu. No one project is alike, and not all of them have been easy, but each day I’m at work I force myself to take on challenges. But what sets me apart? It’s my attitude—plain and simple. I believe kindness, support, and uplifting others, get the job done. Being a self-taught freelancer, that mindset makes all the difference, and at just 22, I realize I still have so much to learn, but am always grateful for every opportunity to grow and strengthen my craft.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative lies in the power of bringing imagination to life. Like a painter, I use light as my brushstroke to craft each scene into what I feel it should be.The ultimate fulfillment comes from witnessing the culmination of hours poured into a project materialize into its full and final form. Seeing our collective efforts translate into something truly remarkable, especially when it’s undeniably impressive, is an unparalleled reward.

But beyond the tangible outcome, the joy of creating alongside passionate friends and collaborators is such a great feeling. Countless hours spent working tirelessly, often without pay, are elevated by the shared struggle and the camaraderie forged through creative endeavors. Some of my fondest memories stem from these experiences, rooted in the pure happiness of doing what I love with the people I admire and respect.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Yes absolutely. I feel the biggest mystery is my growth is, How’d I make so much progress in 3 years & how could someone looking to do the same start? If I’m completely honest, It all starts with a switch. One day I was tired of juggling what I truly enjoyed just to somewhat support myself as a human. I struggled a lot for a few months after high school because I tried to go to college & go the traditional route. I attended SMC but because of COVID, all my classes were through Zoom which for someone like me with ADHD was literal torture. I woke up depressed every day tired of the work, school, and repeat routine, and just said enough was enough. Jumped right on YouTube and started to research any and everything related to film. Tips for being the best PA, What to bring as an AC, What does a Scripty do, What is a 10-1? All valid questions I needed answers to. It’s surprising what a detailed question can provide from a good old Google search. After spending hours on YouTube watching every how-to video and breakdown I started to develop my understanding of film & that’s something film school can never teach you. Film school can never teach you creativity or how to build an idea but can sure help you learn the fundamentals of how it’s done, and so can YouTube. If you ever start a video and hear a tip you think is good write it down and if you hear it again in another video apply it to ur eddicate, always be a student first! Ask questions even if you think you know because in this industry any answer could be a good answer & any action could be one that saves you more time. Be thoughtful and open-minded and you’ll flourish more than you could ever imagine.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquesketchens/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacques-ketchens-40a40626a/
• Other: Email: [email protected]

Image Credits
Sid Mason