Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Benson.
Michael, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Well it all started in Long Island, NY, In my early adolescent years, I realized that I was different. I always felt a type of disconnect when looking at how I acted and interpreted things. What I didn’t know was that this exact thing would translate into greatness. The start of my career was unexpected as I never wanted to take photographs or videos for anyone. My passion in this industry started after doing small personal projects. Soon, I began to see that value of my own work and was comfortable sharing it with others. In high school, I would draw pictures in my bedroom and imagine what they would look like on the big screen. This evolved into more as I began to add more layers to my drawings; I imagined full scenes accompanied by dialogue. At this point in my life, I realized what my true calling was. I am meant to be a film director and everything I have done since then has been in pursuit of this. On breaks from college, I started to shoot local artists and even some of my close friends. This was the true beginning of my career; although I was unsure of how to approach this career path, I had faith that my skills would take me where I wanted. My mind was detrimental to my success as I was the one casting doubt on myself. Even after shooting some photos that I absolutely loved, I felt like something was missing. It’s hard to believe in yourself while thinking about the thoughts and opinions of others, and as a director it is essential to be confident in yourself. I was able to fully comprehend the importance of self-worth in times of unrest. At this time I learned the true value of a solid support system. Despite being hesitant to depend on family and friends, those who supported me behind the scenes helped me realize my potential. In 2019 I made the bold decision to move from New York to Atlanta with the idea of a career and a purpose. I am astonished at my own success these last few years. I moved up from working a menial job to shooting some of my all-time favorite artists.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The challenges I face are not irregular for the average entrepreneur. Learning how to finance my life by doing what I love has proven difficult, yet I have noticed the bountiful rewards that accompany hard work. I am aware that many others face similar struggles and found solace in knowing that I was not alone. This was a challenge foreseeable, but what I had not considered to be as large of a problem as it has been is dealing with equipment malfunctions, rude clients, and being overlooked. Although these challenges have caused an insurmountable amount of frustration, they made me stronger. They have allowed me to become well-versed in all aspects of this industry. One has to take control of their own narrative in order to make it in this world.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Right now, I am a Photographer/Videographer for Coca Vango and Lightskinkeisha. I balance my high-volume work schedule with them and with several other clients. My specialty is video-editing yet through years of experience my photography skills have rapidly excelled. The joy of editing and taking photos inspired my journey to start filming. There are countless things that I consider personal achievements. My aptitude for capturing picturesque moments is undeniable. This has granted me several opportunities I never thought would be possible. My work has given me so much already and I know that I am just getting started. I was able to meet and shoot 2 Chainz, an artist who I grew up listening to. The fact that my work is going to keep taking me to places that I didn’t think possible is incontrovertible. I am a perfectionist which drives my need to have everything a certain way. I do not settle for less than perfect, because in this industry perfection is the only option I see. The capacity to see things that others don’t is a talent that cannot be taught. I have the skill to see beyond the average eye and the persona to take things at my own pace. I do not let myself overthink a project because once you second guess yourself others will follow promptly. I trust the process and I am proud of the confidence I have instilled in myself.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success isn’t defined by how much money you’ve made. I define success with the audience I create for. I think what makes you successful is when people start to change or see things different from your work. The lessons taught by someone is how I define success. Most successful people know how to listen and take constructive criticism. I think these are important because how can you expect to make it big when you can’t take opinions.
Contact Info:
- Email: Bennycommas@gmail.com
- Website: Iambennycommas.com
- Instagram: @Bennycommas
- Twitter: @Bennycommas
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/Bennycommas
Image Credits:
Photos by Bennycommas
