Today we’d like to introduce you to JT Barnett.
JT, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started shooting television in 1999. I field produced the reality show “Cheaters” for Bobby Goldstein for about 10 years. During the time I worked there, the program grew from a local Dallas show, into syndication in over 200 markets internationally. I left Cheaters in 2009 to pursue other projects and programming. Since then I have produced hundreds of non-scripted and scripted programs for TV delivery in many major markets. I produced and shot content for Worldstarhiphip for years. I have produced Spanish language content with MTV TR3S and Mega TV. After a good run in television and streaming outlets, I started transitioning to film.
I’ve been working in film for about 7 years now and have built an excellent team. I have produced multiple films in the sub-million dollar range and am recently partnered on a new film company, Trilogy Pictures. I am a veteran Producer/Shooter who understands the technical side of motion photography and production. I’m also a skilled writer who has completed two feature-length screenplays, both currently in development.
The first of these films, “The Scarecrow Bandits” takes place in Dallas. It is based off a true story and inspired by events from Calvin Pettie. I’m working on this film with WOF Entertainment. The second film I’m working is with Redlux Productions, a cool Dallas production company. It’s called, “Codename: Awake.” I am very excited for both of these films. I think they are going to really be something special!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Every business suffers challenges. I like to focus on solutions, rather than problems. If I touched on one specific challenge… I would say the lack of support for film incentives with the state of Texas. This can be a struggle, building a career in Dallas and across the state. The Texas Film Incentive program has been stripped to the point, that there has been an exodus of studios and production professionals from this market. Until Texas legislators speak up on our behalf, we will continue to lose millions of dollars in business and force tens of thousands of skilled Texas workers to move to other markets.
Regardless as a Texas native, I am committed to the production industry here for the long term. No journey is free of obstacles… It’s how you overcome those challenges that define your character. I’m just thankful to be able to create engaging bodies of work and to do what I love for a living.
JT Barnett – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I produce short and long-form streaming, television and film projects. I do still and motion photography. I write for screen and television. I have a concentration in film these days, but that doesn’t stop me from shooting lifestyle or commercial work. I have many years technical prowess and have many resources with top industry professionals.
I have a great support system and team. I work with a few select studios in the area and other markets. I work closely with, Radio Rajeem, at the Never Satisfied studio. We have an amazing production facility located in North Dallas. I work closely with Mark Lipsky of WOF Entertainment. He has helped me tremendously not only in my career but by taking my writing to the next level. Mark’s films have collectively grossed almost $1.5 billion dollars at the box office level alone. I have a great mentor and friend in James Russell of Russell Rutherford. James is one of the top photographers in the world. In the years we’ve worked together I’ve learned more about imaging and photography than any other point in my career. Finally, I have a great friend and colleague in Ben Loggins. Ben is a veteran producer and stunt coordinator in the film business. Without talented men like these, I would not be where I am today.
In today’s evolving market streaming outlets are just as viable a medium as television. Through my network, I have strong contacts across multiple streaming and television outlets. We can help see your vision or brand from script to pre-production, all the way through to its final edit and distribution. Regardless of whether I shoot a small promo or coordinate a large feature… I put the same amount of creativity and focus into the effort.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is different for everyone. We’re constantly pushing for newer and bigger goals. Our biggest victory can seem to come on the tail of our greatest failure. I’ve made accomplishments in the industry over the course of my career. For me, it’s never good enough. You can always learn more, do more, strive to make your craft better.
The entertainment industry has a way of keeping you locked in a box. Meaning whether you’re a reality producer or a stuntman. It can be challenging to cross the gap to other areas of production. I have been fortunate enough to be being able to transition to work in different areas and on different platforms. I am proud of the writing I’ve been doing the past few years. It’s a surreal feeling getting to hear characters and ideas brought to life.
Filmmaking is a collaborative art, you’re only as good as the team you work with. Success for me is a winning team. Creating a body of work that you can be proud of with a group of talented people… is the greatest feeling.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1420 Century Dr. #1000
Carrollton, TX 75006 - Phone: 9177251197
- Email: jtbarnett45@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/jtbarnett45
- Twitter: twitter.com/jtbarnett45
- Other: imdb.me/jtbarnett
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