Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Morris.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My dad is awesome! He first introduced me to a camera when I was 11. He convinced me to record all of our home movies. A few years later, my mom gave me a photography camera for my birthday. I grew up practicing both as a hobby but never took it seriously. I went on to develop my skills with writing, then spoken word, and ultimately hip hop. I went to college thinking that a would further my knowledge for music production and business; only to discover that I would fall in love with film and the art of storytelling on screen. After College I moved to L. A. At the end of the summer and never looked back. It was there that I truly learned the craft. I worked almost every position on set. Those skills later came in handy when I produced my own indie films and projects. When you don’t have a huge budget you tend to wear multiple hats. L.A. wasn’t easy at all. My first week I ended up homeless sleeping on skid row, my car was towed and the job I planned to start was suddenly on a hiring freeze. I would go on to work on a variety of sets from reality tv to music videos and indie films. After starting my company Visual Tellers I moved back to Atlanta to be close to family. I grew the business in Atlanta which ultimately gained me a position as a marketing director for a large law firm for 5 years before I transitioned into education to give back and teach the next generation of filmmakers. I created a non profit (Visual Tellers Foundation) to teach kids the arts. I’ve collaborated with countless creatives in the city of Atlanta and globally. I travel the globe and teach underprivileged youth wherever I go. I’ve been acknowledged by congress for my contributions to film in the state of GA. I’m a best selling author and a multi award winning filmmaker. I’m currently in the process of planning to create a film studio. My ultimate goal is philanthropy. I’ve been a serial entrepreneur for several years and find pleasure in being able to share knowledge to help those around me grow. I want us all to win.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Filmmaking has not been easy in the least, but it has been rewarding. I’ve been homeless. I’ve been broke countless times. I’ve had equipment stolen. I’ve had people befriend me only to use me for my skills and once their projects were completed they’ve disappeared. The fact that I keep going is a testament to my passion for my craft. Equipment has broken on sets, people have not shown up that promised to help, I’ve received awards with no support in the crowd but would get countless likes online for a post of that same event. As a filmmaker working within your own budget I found myself working every position to make it to the finish line. It taught me a lot. I’ve grown so much and still have a desire to continue to always grow. Life has taught me that when you love something you don’t just give up when things get challenging, you fight for it, have patience, reevaluate and find a way. I’m a problem solver so I don’t run from challenges, I face them head on.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I teach media arts at a performing arts school. I run a non profit where I teach the arts. I’m most known for producing and directing. I was behind the camera as a do for many years but I find myself in my bag when directing and producing. What sets me apart from others is my work ethic. As the kid of a Marine and a Jamaican, I’m relentless when it comes to getting things done. I always find a way!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
When I was homeless a stranger let me stay on their couch for 3 months totally free. That changed the trajectory of my entire career. I was lucky to be blessed to meet him and have the grace to get back on my feet.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.visualtellers.org
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/visualtellers
- Facebook: https://Www.facebook.com/visualtellers
- Youtube: https://Www.youtube.com/visualtellers
- Other: Www.visualtellers.com www.instagram.com/visualtellersfoundation
