Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Vyvy Thai. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Vyvy, thanks for joining us today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

Yes, I’ve been fortunate enough to earn a full-time living from my creative work, but it wasn’t like that from the start—it’s been a journey filled with learning, persistence, and growth.

When I first started freelancing in Atlanta at 21, I was just focused on getting experience wherever I could. I took on all kinds of gigs, from assisting on sets to operating cameras and eventually stepping into the role of Director of Photography (DP). Early on, I didn’t have the confidence to charge what my work was worth, so I often underpriced myself. But those experiences taught me the value of my skills and helped me build relationships in the industry.

One of the major milestones in my journey was transitioning from working as a production assistant on set to taking on various roles within the camera department. Starting as a production assistant gave me a solid foundation in understanding how productions operate, and it wasn’t long before I began moving up to positions like camera utility to 1st AC. These roles allowed me to refine my technical skills, gain hands-on experience, and develop a deeper understanding of visual storytelling.

Looking back, I think the process could’ve been faster if I had been more strategic early on—things like investing in my brand, defining my niche sooner, and seeking out more mentors. I also learned the hard way that freelancing isn’t just about being creative; it’s about running a business. Once I got serious about contracts, pricing, and marketing myself, everything started to click.

It’s not an easy road, but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. Being able to make a living doing what I love feels like a privilege, and I’m always looking for ways to grow and evolve.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hi! I’m Vyvy Thai, a 27-year-old filmmaker, videographer, and editor based in Atlanta, Georgia. I’ve been freelancing in the film and video production industry for about eight years, but my passion for storytelling started much earlier. Growing up, I loved creating things—whether it was photography, short videos, or writing stories. I knew early on that I wanted to pursue a creative career, and after graduating high school, I dove straight into the world of production.

I got my start working as a production assistant on set, where I soaked up as much knowledge as I could. From there, I transitioned into roles within the camera department, eventually becoming a director of photography. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with brands like Red Bull, WebMD, and Revolt TV, as well as cover exciting events like Atlanta Tech Week. These experiences have allowed me to hone my craft and specialize in creating short-form content for social media, particularly event coverage and branded storytelling.

What sets me apart is my ability to adapt to different creative visions and deliver high-quality, impactful visuals. My clients often say they appreciate how I can bring their ideas to life while maintaining a clear and collaborative process. I don’t just show up with a camera—I help clients refine their vision, plan the production, and ensure the final product resonates with their audience. Whether it’s a fast-paced event recap, a behind-the-scenes documentary, or a branded social media campaign, my goal is to create work that feels fresh, engaging, and true to my client’s story.

One of the things I’m most proud of is being able to make a living from my creative work while staying true to my values and identity. As a queer creative, I’m passionate about telling stories that matter and amplifying voices that aren’t always heard. It’s deeply fulfilling to know that my work not only helps my clients achieve their goals but also contributes to a larger cultural conversation.

For potential clients and collaborators, I want them to know that I bring professionalism, creativity, and heart to every project. I understand how important it is to deliver not just a product but an experience that exceeds expectations. For followers and fans, I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their passions, even when the road isn’t easy.

At the end of the day, my work is about connection—connecting people to stories, ideas, and each other through the power of visuals.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Understanding the business side of things was a steep learning curve for me. I wish I had known more about managing finances, creating contracts, and setting appropriate pricing for my services earlier. Resources like creative business courses or financial planning tools designed for freelancers would have helped me be more confident in managing my career as a business from the start.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One thing non-creatives might struggle to understand is how much emotional and mental energy goes into being a creative. It’s not just about the work itself, but the emotional investment, the constant need to adapt, and the uncertainty of freelancing. Creatives often pour a piece of themselves into every project, and dealing with self-doubt or criticism can be tough. Freelancing also means there’s no guaranteed paycheck, and success often comes from hustle, persistence, and learning to balance business and creativity.

Additionally, self-promotion is essential but challenging. It requires constantly marketing yourself, which can be draining. And the path isn’t always linear—there are many ups and downs, unexpected opportunities, and lessons learned from failures. Creativity isn’t just about the end product; it’s about the journey and the effort it takes to get there. Understanding this can give non-creatives a deeper appreciation for the work involved.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://vtmedias.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vyvy.thai/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vyvy-thai/
• Other: https://tiktok.com/vyvy.thai