We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jermaine Thomas a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jermaine thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights 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 was going to the Art Institute of Atlanta where I obtained my BA in Audio Production in 2013. Initially, I was more interested in Studio Recording and I was very good at it, but as I got into my later years I wanted to learn new crafts, so when I was offered an opportunity to be a Sound Mixer on a Production, I seized the moment and accepted the challenge. The project was a success, starting my career.

Knowing what I know now, reaching out to peers and mentors regarding the technical questions and proper set etiquette in certain situations definitely speeds up the learning process.

Skills that I considered most essential was always having a positive attitude, being cool in strenuous situations while troubleshooting and solving problems quickly. Maintaining good morale on set is critical. Obviously, being a good listener and know what you’re listening for is very essential also lol.

The only obstacle I can say stood in my way of learning more was myself. I had limited myself because I was afraid of taking risks and failure, but I broke through and elevated to a new heights.

Jermaine, 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?

I got my first break in the film industry my last semester in college 2013, a faculty member connected me with Supremacy Films. They took a chance on me, I didn’t know anything about filming, I just knew how to record properly. They gave me the gear to learn 30 Days prior to the shoot, NO ADR was required. I was proud and honored to get the job done. From there, I got introduced to other local producers and sound mixers in the city working with various networks and corporations. Humbly speaking, I’ve been privileged to capture moments in time that will never be forgotten. From Selma to Sunday’s Best to Joseline’s Cabaret, I worked several different projects.

How did you build your audience on social media?

In school, I always preached that your 1st impression should be your best impression because its not always who you know, but how they know you. Your network is your net worth so you want people to remember you for the right reasons. I started promoting myself on social media in 2012. I focused on posting pictures of me just working, thanking talent and crew for the opportunities and overall getting the job done. Posting screenshots of my name in the credits, effectively marketing myself, building more relationships in the community and beyond. Heck, I even made a hashtag called #mychroniclesofwork which shows me busy in my craft.

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

Honestly, I’d say carrying myself appropriately with people. Respect goes a long way. I’m passionate about what I do so I try to put my all into every job. Keeping a cool head when everyone else is stressed and being sociable. It’s always a blessing when talent and crew thank me for making things easy and want to work with me in the future.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Tommy2Tymez
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jermaine-thomas-43734736

Image Credits
Every image was taken on my phone