Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Hurst.
Hi Monica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story starts with a family of creatives. I have a very artsy mom who taught art for years in public school, and not just any art, but huge still life paintings, pottery, abstract drawings, building and drawing structures, and all sorts of designs. My sister, Kristi Bracewell with Kristi Bracewell Photography, has been behind the camera for over 10 years and she is one of the best photographers in the US. Her custom-designed props, unique poses, and her perfect lighting has taught me that being detailed and creative is important. She is the one that actually got me started in videography. She has mentored me for the past three and a half years and she has given me pointers that no one else would have been able to. She and I work together on a lot of projects and shoots, everything from weddings to newborns, to marketing, to graduating seniors, and so much more. Our invaluable time together has built my confidence in my filmmaking and I have now added wedding photography to my list of “I do’s”.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My road to success is still being paved and it will always be in the making. I don’t know that there are smooth roads when you are running your own business. Some things are easier than others, but that is probably because I screwed up earlier and learned a lesson. Sometimes, keeping sight of the long-term goal and keeping life’s priorities in line can be difficult. I’ve been told that “a yes to someone else is a no to your family” so I have been sticking to that and ensuring that I am managing my time in a way that I put my family first and learning that saying “no” to a job is okay.
Building clientele can be challenging when it comes to videography. So many people view videography as a luxury rather than a necessity, and I can tell you that there is nothing that can replace a video with the sentimental audio of a first-time mother reading a letter to her newborn baby or a groom struggling through his vows, fighting back the tears. Getting others to see that videography is so much more than an “add-on” and that it complements the photography has been a bumpy road.
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?
Everyone has a story to tell and I’m here so others can replay the memories for forever. I work across many video genres including wedding videography, lifestyle films, marketing, and other video and film productions options. My job is to bring visions to life. My timeless style allows the films to be watched over and over, for many years, in a way that feels like it was just yesterday. Capturing emotions, characteristics, loved ones or showing off that perfect product is always my goal. I thrive on relationships with my clients. When I get to know them, I am able to more effectively capture what they have in mind. It’s a collaboration. My faith and family always come first. I can’t even begin to describe the sense of freedom and creativity that comes when shooting. Each person, each situation, and each shoot brings something different to the video. So many people are “afraid” to be in front of the camera, but let me tell you, those are moments that you will never get back. Whether it’s a film or wedding photos, I ensure my clients are comfortable and excited to be on camera!
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
My comfort zone was not videography when I started this. I had encouragement from my sister and major support from my husband to head in this direction with my business. Every day is a risk. I’m putting my work out there for everyone to see. I’m definitely proud of it, but it certainly opens me up to criticism, whether it is the creative portion, my website, or pricing, or something else. However, that’s something I’m willing to do to keep moving forward. We’ve heard the saying; great risk brings great reward and I’m seeking that great reward. I started with videography and have expanded to some photography and now marketing that includes the designs and maintenance of websites and assistance with social media platforms, so I’m taking a risk on all of it.
Pricing:
- Wedding Photography starts at $2700
- Wedding Videography $1500-$3200
- Marketing films are determined by project
- Family/Lifestyle are determined by project
Contact Info:
- Website: monicahurstvideography.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/monicahurstvideography
- Facebook: facebook.com/monicahurstvideography
- Other: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/monica-hurst-videography-and-photography-bryan-tx-2067792
Dawn Marks
February 16, 2023 at 5:53 pm
I used Monica to video my sons wedding as a gift to him and his wife. Truly the best wedding gift ever! She captured so many special moments from their I do’s to my terminally ill dad laughing and dancing with all of us on the dance floor. Moments that I will always cherish and hold as a special memory and now I can revisit them whenever I want. Only regret I have is that I didn’t know about her when my daughter got married! If you use her I can assure you that you won’t be disappointed.