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

Kaan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

My journey into photography and videography was deeply influenced by my brother, who shared our father’s love for capturing moments through the lens. Despite the significant age gap of 13 years, he often took me along on his photography expeditions during our time in Turkey. When he ventured off to university to pursue dual majors, our reunions were fleeting. Sensing my loneliness, he imparted a valuable lesson: to find solace in photography, assuring me that with every snap of the camera, he would be by my side. This emotional connection laid the foundation for my lifelong passion for photography.

Similarly, my entry into the world of technology was nurtured by my father’s penchant for AV equipment, laptops, desktops, and cameras. He, alongside my brother, patiently introduced me to the inner workings of these devices, igniting a fiery passion for IT that burns within me to this day.

Moreover, the seed of philanthropy was sown in me at a tender age by my beloved grandfather, who epitomized kindness and taught me to empathize with others, recognizing that everyone is on their own journey. This ethos propels me to give back to my community, striving to make a positive impact wherever I can.

In the realm of content creation, I am entirely self-taught. From capturing videos and photos to editing gaming clips, every endeavor is not merely a means of documenting memories but also a medium for self-expression and community education.

Reflecting on my decade-long journey, I wouldn’t hasten the learning process. Each day has been a tapestry of experiences, shaping me into who I am today. My essential skills include self-assurance, a thirst for knowledge, seizing every opportunity, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Fortunately, obstacles to my learning have been few and far between, as my insatiable hunger for knowledge drives me to constantly seek new avenues of growth. For me, it’s not about reaching a destination; it’s about relishing the journey and the continuous evolution it brings.

Kaan, 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?

Greetings! I am fueled by an insatiable passion that has driven me to immerse myself in a multitude of industries, each interwoven with my personal journey. Photography, technology, philanthropy, content creation – these are not just fields of interest for me; they are the manifestations of my deepest passions.

My journey began organically, guided by familial influences and a fervent desire to explore the world through various lenses. Photography, nurtured by my brother’s mentorship and my father’s technological fascination, became my means of storytelling and self-expression. Simultaneously, my exposure to technology sparked an enduring fascination with IT, propelling me toward a realm where innovation and problem-solving converge.

Philanthropy, instilled in me by my beloved grandfather, serves as the moral compass guiding my actions. It’s not merely about giving back; it’s about empathizing with others, understanding their stories, and striving to make a meaningful impact in their lives.

As a content creator, I have honed my skills independently, capturing moments, editing videos, and sharing stories that resonate with audiences. My work is not just about documentation; it’s about fostering connections and imparting knowledge.

What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly integrate these diverse passions into a cohesive whole. Through initiatives like “Garden & Gasoline”, held at The Garden Skatepark in Rochester, MN, I merge my expertise in communications, marketing, photography, videography, and social media management to support local businesses. “Garden & Gasoline” is a vibrant gathering that celebrates the intersection of automotive culture and community engagement. Attendees have the opportunity to explore an impressive array of vehicles while enjoying freshly brewed coffee and delectable donuts inside the skatepark’s cozy coffee shop. Beyond the thrill of revving engines and screeching tires, “Garden & Gasoline” embodies a deeper ethos of giving back to the community. Initiatives like our toy drive last year allowed attendees to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and single parents in need, spreading joy and hope during the holiday season.

My proudest achievement lies in the ability to leverage my multifaceted skill set to effect positive change. However, despite my accomplishments, my current struggle lies more in the difficulty of gaining visibility and recognition within the industry. Despite my extensive skill set and passion for what I do, breaking into the professional world has proven to be a daunting challenge. Despite my best efforts, it’s disheartening to encounter barriers that hinder my ability to showcase my capabilities and secure opportunities. However, I remain resilient and committed to proving my worth, knowing that perseverance and determination will eventually lead to the recognition I seek.

Ultimately, I want people to know that I am more than the sum of my parts. I am a dynamic individual, constantly evolving, and driven by a relentless passion to make a difference, one endeavor at a time.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to express oneself in a deeply personal and unique way. While to others, it may appear as just another picture, video, or words on a sheet of paper, for us artists, it transcends mere representation. It’s a means of channeling our innermost emotions, thoughts, and experiences into a tangible form that resonates with others. It’s about capturing the essence of our existence and sharing it with the world, forging connections, and evoking emotions that transcend language barriers. In essence, it’s a form of self-discovery and catharsis, allowing us to navigate the complexities of life and leave a lasting impact on those who encounter our creations.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a profound mission to amplify the voices of local businesses and share their stories with our world and community. These small businesses are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods, bravely navigating the competitive landscape against larger entities in their industries. Each one embodies a unique passion and resilience that inspires me deeply.

Through my content creation endeavors, I aim to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes, capturing the essence of their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering determination. Their stories deserve to be heard, celebrated, and shared, serving as a source of inspiration for others embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Moreover, I am driven by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and expertise in the realm of technology. Earning certifications and possibly degrees not only validates my skills to industry standards but also equips me with the tools to create tech content that informs and educates the next generation. I believe in the transformative power of education and aspire to empower others through accessible and insightful content.

Embedded within my creative mission is a steadfast commitment to philanthropy. I firmly believe in the power of giving back to our communities, whether through financial contributions or, equally importantly, through the gift of time and energy. It’s about fostering a culture of compassion and solidarity, where we uplift those in need and create a ripple effect of positive change.

Ultimately, my creative journey is guided by a deep sense of purpose and empathy. It’s about using my platform and skills to uplift others, amplify marginalized voices, and foster a more compassionate and inclusive world. Through storytelling, education, and philanthropy, I strive to leave a meaningful impact on the lives of those around me and inspire others to join me on this transformative journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaanproductions
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaanavci/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Kaanproductions
• Other: portfolio: https://www.behance.net/kaanproductions

Image Credits
ONLY my profile picture/portrait was taken by Adele Mclees (the very first picture that was uploaded to showcase me) all other pictures that are submitted are my OWN and OWNED BY ME