We recently connected with Nicholas Pagan and have shared our conversation below.

Nicholas, appreciate you joining 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 took my first photography class in the 7th grade after I was late signing up for classes for the upcoming school year and was stuck in the only available course, photography. Before that point, I had never thought of or considered photography as something I could potentially do with my life. Fast forward almost 15 years and I revisit photography after my time in the military. I spent all of my free time taking photos, and teaching myself what works and what doesn’t work. I spent time taking photos of as many different things and in as many different situations as possible. Knowing what I know now, I would have started way earlier in my life taking photography seriously. The absolutely best way to get better is to go out and take photos. Take a lot of photos. All the time. And try different things. Don’t put yourself in a box, or let anyone else put you in a box. The biggest obstacle that has stood in my way has honestly always been myself. I’ve had to gradually build up my confidence to feel like I am good enough to not only take photos for a living but to present my work as legitimate art.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi! My name is Nick and I am a professional photographer and videographer that owns my own digital media business, NAP Media, LLC. I got into the business after my time in the military when I was really struggling to figure out what to do with my life. Now I get to scratch my creative itch while helping my clients create engaging photo and video content for their businesses, or in some instances for themselves. I’ve been in business for almost 10 years now and love every minute of it! I’ve created content for bars, breweries, restaurants, large tool manufacturers, and more. I’ve also provided event coverage all over the state of North Carolina and would love to expand all over the country. I am truly a jack of all trades and would love to show you what I can do for you!

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Something a lot of people don’t know about me is that I love treasure hunting! I love going to thrift stores, yard sales, or even online auction sites trying to find hidden treasures. Anything I didn’t keep I’d turn around and sell to help fund my business early on. Everyone once in a while, when I have time, I still like to go out and find interesting things, but I spend most of my time these days taking care of my 4-month-old son and my business.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part of what I do is when something I create or capture something that touches someone deeply.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.napmediallc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nap_media_llc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NAP.Media.LLC
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-pagan/