We were lucky to catch up with Mills recently and have shared our conversation below.
Mills, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
I’m building something that I’ve only dreamt about of as a child.
I hope when this is all said and done that my work outlives me, inspires someone else who felt like they were too much. Too lame, too different, too weird, too raw, too black. That was me.
I can only hope people remember me for what I am, and what I chase after, an authentic story.
Mills, 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’m Mills originally from Chicago, growing up on the suburban south side (South Holland) I got my introduction into film with the challenge shooting music videos for my close friend Kevin Williams, and after Chief Keef they’re were many more looking for “video men”. Music videos turned to weddings, wedding turned to product visuals shoots and commercials. My knowledge of social media, and my comedic tone really amplified the new skills I was acquiring.
I moved to Los Angeles and was granted an opportunity to work at SLiC studios, where I was the sole camera operator for the “Ballervision” podcast set for by the Los Angeles Clippers. SLiC would become an incubator for me. I was allowed to network and work in a field that I love. Multiplying my skill set I would start to create show ideas, write scripts, and eventually make documentaries. My production team provides all audio and visual services to my clients including but not limited to, video and film production, social media management, content creation (short and long form), branding, marketing, cinematography, and editing.
I was able to meet Steven Pickens (basketball innovator) through our mural connection with SLiC, after hammering out a storyline with my close friend, and Assistant Director, Adam Hull, we filmed “Unconventional” The Steven Hibachi Story. It’s with this documentary I would like to show my ability to inspire through film, and lead a full production.
I think of myself “Play-doh” creative, able to bend into any situation, while coming up with creative solutions to problems that arise during a production.
I have to say what I’m most proud of isn’t necessarily one service I offer, I would have to say it’s my progression of work, I always out do myself. I love how it feels to grow in this creative space.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My goal is to tell stories of cultural, stories that inspire those who feel invisible. African American cultural is like a family, and everyone isn’t invited to dinner.
My goals is to tell stories of the people who have taken the rode less traveled, whether thats wrestlers, drug dealers, or skaters. I believe we need these stories, and we need their answers for success. I just want to serve as a connector for the “searching” and the “found”.
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
My business partners and I have been friends since grade school. My Assistant Director Adam Hull and I were both caught up in the music video wave in Chicago, and we both navigated well but Adam always had a better business sense, which led to him being exploited far less than I ever was, with an unrivaled eye for detail, Adam often wears many hats, and if you have to the opportunity to see him work, you’ll understand exactly why.
Dewone Hobbs another grade school friend, works as the head of finance, and over sees all daily operations. Dewone’s brain works in a way me and Adam’s does not. Knowledge of market, insurance, appraisals, write offs, and last but not least loyalty makes Dewone the only person for this position.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Prezguy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-mills-772a33224?trk=contact-info
Image Credits
Design by @Kanevtf on IG