Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven Starks.
Steven, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I began my film career in my sophomore year in college. I had no idea what I wanted to do or which direction to go in. But I did know that I’ve always been a people person and I had a way with words that would help grant me access to a lot of opportunities.
At first, I was a music major because music is also a passion of mine. But, by more sophomore year, I knew I wanted to grow in other areas such as videography and production based on how other students were engaged in meaningful discussions and debates about film. These students would also think creatively and brainstorm about scripts and concepts for possible projects. These moments inspired me to learn more about filming as a craft and as a billion dollar industry.
After undergraduate school, I went on to pursue my Masters in Film and Television at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). While attending SCAD, I was exposed to classes that incorporated music video production. It was then that I realized that I could make a living off of combining visuals and music together, which are both my passion.
I then found a few close friends that were DJ’s in the Savannah, GA area. They always had the best parties. One night I went to a party and met up with this group that was signed to a record label. While there, I met their manager and asked them could I film their performance. He agreed and that is what helped me transition to Atlanta, GA for filmmaking. From there, I worked on several music video sets and feature films like Hunger Games and Ride Along. These opportunities inspired me to start my own production company. That’s when Starks Films, LLC was born.
Has it been a smooth road?
My filmmaking journey has not been a struggle. Thus far, my career in filming has been a part of my faith walk and believing in myself. I remember when I first moved to Atlanta and I had a camera, one lens, one battery charger, and one memory card. I felt a sense of needing to find work quickly. So, I prayed and I spoke my opportunities into existence. Now, five years later, I have a diverse portfolio of clients from artists, foundations and corporations. I’m also well connected to people in this industry. And most importantly, I’m respected for my craft and my clients trust me to capture their most important moments.
Although, I don’t believe being a filmmaker has been a struggle, that doesn’t mean that there have not been challenges along the way. I believe in the power of prayer and maintaining a positive attitude. My faith has kept me going and my ability to stay “stuck” in the solutions versus the problems has sustained me personally and professionally.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am the CEO of Starks Films, LLC. Starks Films is a global film company that focuses on telling unique stories through captivating visuals and high-quality cinematography. We specialize in short films, music promos/concerts, documentaries, and filming for non-profits. And eventually, we’ll expand into producing feature films. We’re known for being diverse in our filming projects and our super quick turnaround for completed edits. I can recall a time when we had five projects lined up back to back that needed to be edited and we turned each video around in less than a week with no revisions from the client. In this business, that is unheard of but our company strives to make high-quality videos in a short time span.
Our company culture is that we are passionate about our clients, our fellow colleagues and being unique and creative in our craft. I believe that is what sets us apart from other companies. I hire people who love life itself and who know how to capture stories in a way that prompts clients to hire our team on a consistent basis. If my team and I don’t love what they do, then our clients will not love the product that we produce for them. Hence, the love and passion that we have for our work shows in our final products.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Oh, absolutely. I feel that Atlanta is a city of growth for anyone that is trying to break into the film industry. Everything is here. Out of the 100+ movies, commercials, etc. that are filmed here every year, there’s enough room for anyone to gain experience in any aspect of filming that they would like. You just have to want it and do the work that comes with it.
For someone starting out here in ATL, I would say definitely dibble and dabble into whatever you can get your hands on (from feature films to music videos. Get on these sets, be punctual, create great relationships, and show people that you have what it takes. And remember to have confidence in every step you take. Say YES more than NO. Follow that gut feeling. Just because someone tells you no, don’t take it personally. Just catch the next train and learn from it.
Contact Info:
- Website: Starks Films, LLC
- Email: starksfilms@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starksfilms/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starksfilms/
- Other: www.starksfilms.com
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