Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrian Middleton.
Adrian, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
So, my name is Adrian Middleton Sr. I am the owner of Predator Productionz, a Texas-based video production company that specialize in various forms of video marketing. Currently operating out of Houston, TX but also service all surrounding areas. I started my film degree at Prairie View A&M in 2011 before transferring and graduating from Sam Houston State University in 2015, where I also earned a minor in marketing. Some of my idols in the industry are Tarantino, Spike Lee, Ryan Coogler, Michael Bay, “The RZA”, Gary Gray, Jordan Peele, YouTube personality YCimaging and the late John Singleton just to name a few. The reason I decided to create Predator Productionz was not only to implement my love of cinematography but also to provide an incredible and competitively service alongside amazing crew members. I love being able to use my artistic vision to capture those special moments for my clients that will last a lifetime! Typically, this type of service is either too hard/tedious to shop around for or just too expensive. At only 29 years old I’ve dedicated almost half my life to studying my craft. Which is why I’m very passionate about what I do, and I pride on delivering the best product and experience for my clients.
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?
Originally, I went to college to play football and didn’t really know what I wanted to do in life. I knew that I was good at a few different things which was a blessing and a curse because being a “jack of all trades” when it comes to picking a major doesn’t really work well. So much so that I actually changed my major 5x! After I graduated from college, I started out with high hopes (as any new graduate would going into the work field.) I immediately searched and applied to different media companies in hopes of breaking into the industry but wasn’t successful. Beyond that, having two knee surgeries and a major neck surgery after a nagging football injury, (which if not treated would have left me paralyzed for life), derailed my ability to do anything for a while as it took me a while just to even be able to confidently walk again and live a normal life afterwards. Through the grace of God, I was eventually able to do so.
After searching and applying for weeks, I decided I’m going to go into business for myself. I officially created my business in 2016, where I began to freelance. Now at first, it seemed like a no-brainer until I found out how challenging working for yourself could be, especially in a competitive field that I’m in. I have learned a lot from mistakes I’ve made and from others. During this time in my personal life, I’ve dealt with losses in my family, financial backfires, legal battles, customers taking advantage of me, and even situations where my equipment at one point was stolen from me! The culmination of these events made me “fall out of love” for a bit with my profession. So much so that I took a brief hiatus and had to reflect on life. This time away gave me great clarity and a newfound focus. It has allowed me to view life in a more vivid light and tremendously regroup and put myself in a better position business-wise.
Even though numerous adversities, I’ve still managed to have worked/been a part of numerous projects and had the opportunity to meet and network with amazing people. This was a reminder of one of the biggest reasons why I initially got into this field. Which at one point, felt as if it was being robbed from me because of personal misfortunes in my life. One of the biggest reasons I love this profession is because it’s very rewarding to bridge the gap of enjoyment towards others. I get paid to make my clients feel special. The best part is once I’m done the joy that my work gave them can be relived again and again. There’s no greater feeling than reminiscing looking through a photo album or watching home videos with loved ones. Those moments literally last a lifetime!
One of the main factors that I feel sets me apart is my relentless drive to be the best at what I do, thousands of hours of studying, and practice. Beyond that having played college football, I’m used to competition and giving maximum effort. My mindset is and always has been “I will not be outworked” which is what translated into the videography world. I’m willing to go the extra mile to ensure I provide the best experience I can for clients. Relationships are a key to any successful business, especially in my field. The passion and the vision I have for this business are larger than I can even explain. Some of my goals are to have my work on Netflix, television, produce biopics, and have worked with any of my idols on a major production.
I plan to continue to drive to expand my business, increase my knowledge, connections and increase my portfolio. Opening a large studio that will be used to house photoshoots and video services with hopes of being able to provide jobs to others as well as produce/direct shows on major streaming networks and within cinema.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What sets me apart from others in this business, I would say is my personality. I don’t think the vibe, expertise, and presence that I bring to the table can easily be replicated. Which aids in my customer retention and acquisition. I pride myself on the art of storytelling and being very meticulous in detail. II can take a blank canvas with nothing more than an idea and construct a full feature film if necessary. ’m a firm believer in the philosophy of another one of my idols, the award-winning film editor Walter Murch’s “rule of six” in that rule number one in a successful film/photograph is emotion. That is the single most important aspect in storytelling. How we walk away from a film/photo or story is key to determining how “good” it was. What I am most proud of so far is the opportunities I’ve had, and the networking associated with it. It’s very rewarding to being able to rub shoulders and pick the brain of those who have more experience in this field than I do. Especially with the vast amounts of creatives out there.
Some individuals you see that walk into a room have an aura or presence about them that makes you stop and listen. People naturally gravitate towards me, which is paramount with interacting with clients. Simply put, I’m willing to do everything necessary to make my clients get the best “bang for their buck”. On top of that, I am upfront and honest which everyone appreciates. If I’m able to save my client a few bucks during budgeting/negotiations, then it’s a win-win for both of us. I am organized, professional and pay a tremendous amount of detail to customer service. I’m a firm believer in taking care of my clients and in turn that word of mouth will snowball creating future clients.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve had many mentors both in college and within my community who have been supportive of me throughout my years. My team that I surround myself with are also skilled in different areas which aids in having a well-rounded crew. Most of all are my biggest motivation…my family and friends. I appreciate their honest criticism as they have all seen me grow and develop.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.predatorproductionz.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/predatorproductionz/
