Today we’d like to introduce you to Nigil Crawford.
Hi Nigil, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Since I was young, I have always looked at my life as a movie. A movie that’s made up of 1,000 pictures. Pictures that are worth more than 1,000 words. I never thought I would end up becoming the photographer and producer I am today.
My story begins after high school graduation. I just received a full scholarship to Hampton University. While college was not my immediate option after high school, who could turn down free education? I packed everything I owned including my camera my grandmother gave me and set off on a new adventure. During my time in college, I would capture all of my experiences, both good and bad. Eventually, I became known as the kid with a camera in my hand.
After college, I moved to New York City which fueled my passion for photography. Being in a city that thrives with energy pushed me to start creating more with a purpose.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been a smooth road at all. In freelance, it’s all about finding the right balance. Leaning to say ‘no’ is very important. Every opportunity isn’t always the best for you. Slow seasons are very common in freelance and it is a humbling experience. I’ve had days where I’ve felt discouraged because I didn’t know how I was going to pay next month’s rent. It makes you see where you start from and where you’ll never end up again. I use this as every day as a reminder to myself anything is possible.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a producer & photographer that tells the Black experience. My area of expertise lies in telling OUR stories. I approach my work in a way to creates what is different from the norm. I’m always proud of being inspired by other Black creatives around me. Some of my best work has been created simply by being surrounded by other amazing photographers and producers.
I don’t compare myself to others because everyone’s mission is different. For me, the message will always be the mission. Whether I’m creating in a photo studio or in the field producing, the objective is the same. There is a story I always want to tell and I’m grateful to have this creative medium to do it on my terms.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In the next 5 -10 years, I see myself launching my own creative agency. I want it to be a safe and fun space for creatives to execute their visions whether they’re photographers, videographers, art directors, creative directors, etc.
I want to also push people to be the change they want to see.
Contact Info:
- Email: nigil.crawford008@gmail.com
- Website: www.nigilcrawford.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lordnc/
- Twitter: @Nigil
Image Credits
Personal Photo Credit: Rashida Zagon
