We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kola Adetola. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kola below.
Hi Kola, thanks for joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
During my undergraduate years, I regularly convened with my friends for monthly meetings at a local restaurant. These gatherings were an opportunity for us to discuss our lives and aspirations. As part of these discussions, I would inquire about what they felt they needed to advance in life and achieve their goals.
The majority of the group consisted of individuals who were either already in front of the camera or aspired to be. A common sentiment among them was the desire for more visual content. To understand their needs better, I asked them to elaborate on what they meant and what their ideal scenario would look like. The responses varied from wanting to dance, act, or simply be in front of the camera to gain visibility and propel their careers.
This feedback prompted me to contemplate the potential benefits of owning a camera. After several days of reflection and subsequent meetings, I proposed the idea of purchasing a camera. The group’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive. I held onto this idea for about two to three months, not acting on it immediately as I was unsure of its implications.
In December of that year, just before Christmas, I began researching what it would entail to purchase a camera. When I shared my findings and intentions with the group, they were excited and reminded me of my involvement in production. I recalled the organization I had started in school, African Voice, which had grown and expanded organically over the years. This growth positioned me as the person overseeing the organization from both the front and back ends.
As we approached our final showcase before my graduation, I conceptualized how to open the show and dictate its flow. After pitching the idea to the school board and receiving approval, I presented it to my executive board and the rest of the organization. Despite the enthusiasm for the idea, the question of execution arose. I must admit, I had assumed someone else would bring this elaborate idea to fruition.
In short, this period required me to delve into the intricacies of production and show creation. I learned how to translate a plan into reality, a skill that has been invaluable in my journey.
In addition to mastering the camera, I also familiarized myself with other tools and equipment that could enhance the quality of my visuals. I delved into post-production, learning about software tools such as After Effects and Premiere Pro. Initially, I viewed this as a temporary endeavor, not something I would need to revisit in the future. However, upon reflection, I found myself returning to the skills I had acquired during my time at school.
My journey led me to conduct research on eBay, where I began to explore various camera options. Canon was a prominent brand, followed by Nikon, which seemed to have older models with fewer reviews or YouTube videos. Other brands I encountered included Lumix, Panasonic, and Sony. At that time, if one were to rank cameras, the order would likely be Canon, Nikon, and then Fuji.
Despite the popularity of Canon, similar to how iPhones are today, I chose to take a less conventional route and opted for Nikon. This decision meant that I was committing to learning the manual aspects of photography and videography, which subsequently led to the implementation of my ideas.
When I decided to purchase a camera, I was stepping into uncharted territory. I used all my savings to make the purchase, not fully understanding what I was getting myself into. Unfortunately, within the same week of purchasing the camera, I was robbed, and all my equipment, boxes, and accessories were stolen from my car. Miraculously, the only item not in my car at the time of the robbery was the actual camera.
This incident clarified my focus and dictated my next steps. From that day forward, I concentrated on learning everything about my camera and the style of photography and videography I wanted to pursue. This marked the beginning of my journey, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Kola, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
A seasoned photographer & cinematographer with a robust educational foundation and high-level experience in the world of business. My lens has not only narrated stories for international celebrities and esteemed corporations but has been guided by a strategic business mindset, leading both clients and employees for the past 7 years.
With a formal education and high-level business experience, my visual storytelling journey blends artistic creativity and strategic acumen. This dual expertise ensures a comprehensive approach to each project. I excel in translating concepts into captivating visual stories, focusing on strategic visual communication aligned with business objectives, meticulously analyzed and managed for excellence.
With assignments spanning continents, I’ve not only captured the essence of diverse cultures but managed projects with precision. My strong project management skills, enriched by a solid business foundation, ensure seamless execution from concept to delivery, complementing the artistic process with analytical rigor.
Rooted in a rich cultural background, my upbringing instilled a profound appreciation for diversity, enhancing my ability to capture moment subtleties. This cultural fluency informs my approach to client relations and customer service, applying analytical insights to refine the final product.
For the past 7 years, I have proudly worn the hat of a business owner, leading both clients and a talented team of professionals. My business background has been instrumental in steering the ship, ensuring that each project not only meets artistic standards but aligns strategically with the goals of both my clients and my business.
In each project, I blend artistic creativity with a strategic business vision, shaped by comprehensive education and high-level experience. Emphasizing project management excellence, I exceed expectations by combining artistic sensibilities with meticulous analysis. My dedication to customer service goes beyond delivering a product; it crafts profound experiences, fostering lasting relationships. As a business owner for seven years, my leadership ensures projects meet artistic standards and align strategically with client goals. This entrepreneurial approach, balancing creativity and strategic thinking, makes each project a testament to visionary leadership.
Embark on a visual storytelling journey that transcends the ordinary. Partner with me, a visionary photographer, cinematographer, and business leader, and let’s co-create a narrative that not only meets expectations but surpasses them.
Have you ever had to pivot?
A significant turning point in my career occurred when I began to establish myself in the field of photography and videography. Having moved beyond the initial learning stages, I felt increasingly comfortable and driven to create and share my own art with the world.
To commemorate my birthday, I embarked on my first visual project, which I named “Purete | Le Debut,” signifying “Purity | The Beginning.” Although I did not have a detailed plan, I knew I wanted to reconnect with the origins of my passion for photography and videography. This desire led me to conceptualize a project that would bring me back to the roots of my journey.
The project commenced between June till September, providing me with approximately three months before my birthday. The objective was to capture media at a waterfall, with each participant dressed in white to symbolize purity. Every morning at 7 am, I would accompany one person to the waterfall, accommodating each individual’s schedule rather than convening everyone simultaneously.
Regrettably, the project was not completed, but we made significant progress. The rigorous schedule of shooting daily for three months led to a form of a burnout. However, this experience was enlightening, revealing new insights to both myself and others.
Before the project’s completion, I began to receive recognition and attention. Press releases were requested, and websites expressed interest in conducting interviews. This attention was sparked by just a few pictures released prior to the official launch date, boosting my confidence and reaffirming that this could be the start of something significant.
Despite not having a firmly established position in the industry or my local area, the project was abruptly halted due to the theft of my equipment around my birthday. Although exhausted, I still aspired to compile and release the video. Following the theft, I had two fashion shows and a wedding lined up to film in the UK. I was eager to undertake this trip with my camera and equipment, but the momentum from the first project was abruptly taken from me.
This setback forced me to pivot my plans and the momentum I had built around my birthday. Despite encouragement from others to continue enjoying myself, I felt a sense of loss about the missed opportunities. Nevertheless, I did end up traveling to the UK.
As the saying goes, every person who achieves greatness has experienced a humbling beginning or a moment where they had to pivot. My time in the UK was transformative, fostering a new mindset and a heightened level of ambition. This pivotal moment shaped me into the person I am today. It all stemmed from the necessity to pivot from my original plan to what my plan needed to become.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I believe that three fundamental principles have been instrumental in establishing my reputation in the photography and videography market. In a field where anyone can potentially become a photographer or videographer, it was essential for me to remain authentic. This authenticity has resulted in a growing clientele and a robust relationship with my clients. These three principles are honesty, consistency, and exclusivity.
Honesty has earned me a significant level of respect. Clients appreciate the transparency when it comes to shifting deadlines or preferences for revisions. Consistency is the second principle, and arguably the most crucial. From the moment I picked up the camera, my primary goal has always been to assist people. I have consistently sought ways to help others through my work behind the camera and outside of media I’ve constantly strived to find new ways to help and assist others in achieving their goals & dreams.
Lastly, exclusivity has been a defining aspect of my journey. From the outset, I chose to work only with certain individuals, brands and companies. This decision was made to counteract the prevalent notion that one must prove oneself or have one’s capabilities questioned. I opted to collaborate solely with those who believed in me as an individual, not just in the work they perceived I could deliver. This approach, in my opinion, fosters the most valuable and robust aspect of the services I can provide.
In conclusion, honesty, consistency, and exclusivity form a foolproof formula for success. These principles will continue to guide my professional journey in the field of photography and videography.
Contact Info:
- Website: Akolaproduction.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/king_kola311/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kadetola
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kola-adetola-22844a57
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dat_Boi_Kola
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKolaProduction