We’re so pumped about our conversation with Chris Rice. Chris is a Videographer, Writer, Video Editor, Photographer and is also a content partner. Content partners help Voyage in so many ways from spreading the word about the work that we do, sponsoring our mission and collaborating with us on content like this. Check out our conversation with Chris below.
Hi Chris, thank you so much for sitting down with us again. For folks who might have missed our initial interview, can you start by briefly introducing yourself?
I’m a freelance videographer, writer, camera operator, and video editor based in the Atlanta, Ga area. I used my skills to create art and tell stories that are passionate to me and my clients. While also bringing awareness to other local businesses in the Georgia area.
How hard is it to stay motivated during the tough times while also managing stability?
It is always a struggle with any creative to create while maintaining some stability. I can only speak for myself, but 2020 was one of the toughest times for my business. Everything was shut down, and most of the work I had lined up was canceled. When you are going through tough times like that; your faith and mental health go through an emotional roller coaster. Once I found my way and started generating revenue, I realize our most unique gift becomes stronger, and ideas begin to flow. During that time, all you have is time on your side because everything is at a standstill. I don’t know how to stay motivated going through life struggles because, in some situations, you have to walk through before passing judgment. What I can say what kept me motivated throughout these years is seeing the growth rather its major or small, and making time for creating art.
Is there anything you would have did differently with the knowledge you have today?
I can speak to most of my alumni when going to school, and getting into debt was a letdown within my field. Throughout my years, most of my clients never asked me what my educational background is? They were more concerned about my portfolio and my resume. We were stuck in this one-track mind frame about going to school during that time, and you will get a job. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for other students in this country and me. My field of study was evolving quickly leading up to my graduation. Some of the major impacts I noticed were the affordability of camera equipment, job description, technology, and the worldwide community I called Youtube University. I would encourage anyone who desires to tell stories and create to attend production workshops, intern, and work with like-minded individuals within the field. In addition, write and produce your own original projects to build an audience; but if you would like to work in the corporate system. In certain cases, that degree matters, so it all depends on the end goal you see for yourself. The cheapest school you can attend with $180 for an annual membership is MasterClass, and you can learn a lot from hearing the professionals speak on their process to creating and building. The beauty I realize for me going to school is the connections, experience, and just being around like-minded people all the time can spark a flare in you.
What are some of the biggest obstacles you face when creating a passion project?
The biggest obstacle when producing a project is getting it done! In my field, projects involve so many aspects: the actors, camera guy, wardrobe, audio guy, location, time of day, and other people’s schedules. Unfortunately, it makes you run away from even attempting to get it done with all the obstacles. After graduating from school, the stories you would like to tell you to have to write it yourself. If you wait on someone else to write the story…then you might be waiting forever. For the most part, there is nothing fun about sitting down and writing. It is so easy to allow yourself to get distracted and procrastinate. I’m finding new ways to showcase the work while keeping it budget-friendly, so that is what I look forward to showcasing in the future. Lastly, the only other obstacle you will face is believing in yourself.
If you weren’t pursuing this career path, what other career might you have pursued?
If I had to pursue another career, it would probably be a therapist. As a writer, I get inspired by listening to others sharing a piece of them that nobody gets to see. In this era, you overthink what you say, especially in the public’s eye. When people speak to me, it will be a nonjudgmental safe zone for my patients. When you pull back layers, you can truly start to understand and have compassion for someone even if you disagree with their lifestyle.
What are some of your weaknesses you feel you need to work on within your business?
One of my weaknesses is being more active on social media to bring awareness to my work. I’m a very private person, and I wouldn’t say I like to share too much. I learned now when building an audience; people want to see you post consistently. I’m so used to being in the room and observing, not capturing the moment with a photo or video.
Do you feel you have to pursue a higher education to work in your field? If so, how do you feel about college in general?
Like I mentioned earlier, you don’t have to pursue higher education to thrive in my field. I learned college is a business; they are no different from a car salesman trying to sell you a car. For the most part, your success is all on you. They advertise to future students saying they will get you a job, and that’s not the case. Unfortunately, school is so expensive. There is nothing conventional about the career path we have chosen; most of us are chasing a passion that may or may not lead us to a sustainable career. We are ultimately pursuing happiness over a regular nine to five.
Thank you so much again for sharing all of this with us. Before we go, can you share with our readers how they can connect with you, learn more or show support?
Here is my Patreon account where I deliver exclusive content to my subscribers.
https://www.patreon.com/HiCreativeChris?fan_landing=true
My Website
https://www.hicreativechris.com
https://www.instagram.com/hicreativechris/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-rice-5845ab37/?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile_pic
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hicreativechris.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-rice-5845ab37?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile_pic
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/HiCreativeChris
