We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kenneth Dixon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kenneth below.
Kenneth , appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
I’ve been working for myself since 2016 after I quit my full-time job working as a writer. It’s been a journey being able to provide for myself from my creative endeavors but it’s been worth all of the highs and lows. After working for a company where I felt unappreciated and undervalued I decided to quit and take some time off traveling. That inspired me to tap into my own art and personal desires. Traveling and seeing other parts of the world has a way of changing your perspective. Life didn’t seem as long as I once thought. I only wanted to collaborate with positive people who were vibrating on the same frequency as me. I began taking my photography and cinematography more seriously and legitimized my business. I believe investing in myself in array of ways is what helped me grow. From buying new equipment to taking classes to learn new techniques to incorporating my business, I learned new ways to continue to develop myself and the people around me. Im sure there are plenty of ways I could have sped up the process but I also believe in divine timing and being exactly where you’re supposed to. I will say I would loved to have taken the craft more serious and started learning visual art when I was in college. I’m pretty much self taught but sometimes ponder on where’d I would have been had I actually went to film school.
Kenneth , 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?
My first love has always been been writing, and through that medium I embarked on a journey into the world of photography. After initially pursuing a writing career in college, my passion for photography first blossomed when I would engage in conversations about journalism and photography with my friend’s father when I was in high school. Though I did not possess a camera at the time, I found solace in studying photographs and developing a deep appreciation for the art form. This newfound love led me to become a remarkable visual storyteller.
With an impressive client list including notable brands such as Footlocker, Nike, Notre, New Balance, and Wilson, as well as a diverse range of music artists, my talent has undoubtedly made an impact within my community. Currently, I own a production company, where I provides exceptional services in photography, cinematography, editing, drone, and audio. What truly distinguishes me from others is my unwavering authenticity that permeates my images. I believe my ability to tell captivating stories and evoke profound emotions is unparalleled. A large portion of my pride stems from the relationships I’ve cultivated through my art and the collaborations I’ve been a part of. I also cherish the portraits I’ve taken over the years.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I think society needs to do better at appreciating art and giving artists funding. There aren’t enough platforms for artists, especially Black and Brown creatives. Being a visual artist can be expensive. Without opportunities it becomes difficult for us to make a living and afford the equipment we need to keep creating. Another important aspect that gets overlooked is mentorship. More people with illustrious careers need to give back to the community. Mentoring the youth or other artists in their field could help aid in pushing the culture in a positive way, by giving opportunities to artists who often get overlooked.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Having an outlet to express myself verbally and or non-verbally is the most rewarding aspect of being an artist to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.kennethldixonphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennethldixon/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kennethldixonphotography/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-dixon-2754b035