Today we’d like to introduce you to Derrick Kollie.
Hi Derrick, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started with a small Sony RX100, not because I had a plan, but because I was curious and needed a way to tell the stories I saw around me. Growing up in Liberia, I understood early that our stories were rarely told the right way. Too often, the world only saw war or poverty, and not the beauty, the greenery, the strength, and the everyday life that defines us. So I began documenting what was close to me family moments, community gatherings, ordinary days that mattered.
I didn’t have much equipment or formal training at the time, just a strong desire to learn and to show a more honest side of Liberia. That desire slowly turned into discipline. I taught myself through countless hours of learning online and through the support of a few creatives who shared their knowledge freely. Photography and videography became more than skills they became tools for storytelling. I learned how light sets a mood, how composition guides emotion, and how a single frame can carry truth.
As opportunities came, I took on small projects, events, and personal stories. With each one, I built trust not just with clients, but with the communities I was documenting. Every project taught me something, not only about the craft, but about people, responsibility, and purpose.
Today, my work goes beyond taking photos or shooting videos. I focus on stories that matter for individuals, brands, organizations, and communities. My background and my love for Liberia shape how I see the world, and I bring that perspective into every project. I’m still learning, still growing, but I’m proud of the journey so far and excited about what lies ahead.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all. One of the biggest challenges was starting with minimal resources basic equipment, little access to formal training, and having to figure things out on my own. There were times when opportunities were scarce, budgets were tight, and I had to keep going without knowing when the next job would come.
Another challenge was perception. Coming from Liberia, there’s often an expectation of what our stories should look like, and pushing against those narrow narratives took patience and consistency. I also had to learn how to balance creativity with responsibility delivering quality work while building trust with clients and communities who were sometimes unsure of the process.
There were moments of self-doubt and fatigue, but each obstacle pushed me to grow. I learned to adapt, to stay disciplined, and to keep improving even when progress felt slow. Those challenges shaped my work and my mindset, and they continue to remind me why telling our stories the right way matters.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work as a photographer and videographer specializing in visual storytelling for brands, organizations, and individuals. My work focuses on creating authentic, human centered images and films that communicate purpose, identity, and impact. I’m known for a natural, honest style that emphasizes real moments, strong composition, and emotional connection rather than staged visuals.
One of the things I’m most proud of is documenting community and development projects across Liberia, where trust, cultural understanding, and responsibility are essential. Those experiences shaped how I work and set me apart I don’t just capture moments, I understand the context behind them. That perspective allows me to create work that feels grounded, respectful, and genuinely connected to the people and stories being told.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with me by reaching out directly for photography and videography projects, brand storytelling, events, and documentary style work. I’m always open to collaborations with creatives, organizations, and brands that value authentic storytelling and meaningful impact. Support can also come through sharing my work, connecting me with opportunities, or partnering on projects that help tell honest stories from Liberia and beyond.
Pricing:
- Photography projects typically start at $100 USD and scale based on scope, usage, and location
- Videography projects typically start at $400 USD, depending on concept, duration, and deliverables
- Brand, corporate, and documentary storytelling projects are quoted per project.
- Day rates available for local and international assignments.
- Custom packages available for long-term, NGO, and development-focused projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://derrickmichaelcreativehub.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derrick_michael__
Image Credits
Derrick M Kollie
