Today we’d like to introduce you to Marc Smith.
Marc, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My career in media started when I was a kid fascinated with how videos were placed together! Growing up, we did not have all of the technology necessary for Film or Photo Production. We had 1 computer and 5-6 people in the house. We had to share big time. Whenever it was my turn to use the family computer, I made the time worth it! From that moment the 10-year-old me never turned back from being a creator. In the past, I was in the Military where I still made time to create and even began getting my first clients. That’s when I knew it was real and able to turn into a Business. I guess you can say I had a head start on my career because I started so young and never quit. It’s amazing what can happen in life when you start something, and then you don’t quit.
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?
My journey has not been easy, but I will admit it has been worth it. All great things in life come with some trials. I like to remind myself that pressure makes the diamond. There have been times when I have been overlooked, told I was not good enough, told I wasn’t worth it, and other things. However, none of that ever phased me to the point to where I hung it all up and quit. I’m thankful for God’s guidance through the storms of life. On the other side of the hate and negativity, some of my greatest projects were born. Starting off I did not have the most resources, but that did not stop me. I had the same mindset as a kid growing up in the middle of nowhere; if I can make fun and use out of these mud and sticks wait until I get concrete and branches. Through the course of my journey, the act of knowing my worth and value became more important. Knowing yourself worth saves you from so much confusion, disappointment, and some pain or mental stress. Although we face obstacles, I noticed that sometimes in life, I am my own obstacle as well. So, if you’re reading this, your ideas matter and you matter. Get out of your own way and live the life you create. Self-sabotaging is real if you allow it to be. You only lose if you stop.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My content is exclusive. The vibe that you feel when you look at my photos or view my videos conveys an array of emotions. I am a cinematographer who specializes in cinematic storytelling. I am known for the color schemes, creative concepts, and angles that give my work a stylized look similar to some of your favorite things to watch in life, however with a little twist.
They call me EIGHTY8 “88”. Why? If you turn the 8 on its side, it now becomes an infinite sign. One of the eight’s represents God and how, to me, he is the ULTIMATE ARTIST. The second eight represents myself. I believe when I create it’s divinely guided and represents longevity. I’ve worked with big brands like Pinky Cole & Slutty Vegan, 19Keys, Ghost Energy Drink, & the NFL. When I work with small business owners, I aim to give them the same feeling as the influencers and big brands even if things aren’t logistically on the same playing field. How do you feel? I aim to give a luxury experience through media similarly to going to a 5-Star restaurant. You will never see any content like mine anywhere, and that makes me proud to know. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for people to have the same Media Equipment, however, it’s about who’s controlling the sword. If you know, you know.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I read a lot and consume a variety of Self Development resources. Firstly, the Bible keeps me on track in life. I’ve always felt that the way to succeed in any career path was by becoming an overall better person. Somethings can’t be seen on a resume. Things like morals, values, and how you treat people. A few people that I listen to via audio podcast are Eric Thomas, Ed Mylett, and 19Keys, as they are empowering figures in the Self Development space. Some books that I recommend are Atomic Habits by James Clear, The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, and The Power of One More by Ed Mylett. Game Changers in the space legitimately.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @marcsmithceo
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-smith-51aa98225/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/eighty8photos/?hl=en
Image Credits
Marc Smith
Kaitlyn Ross
Jazmine Anderson
