Today we’d like to introduce you to Brannon Winningham.
Hi Brannon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I filmed a wedding for a friend. Their videographer cancelled the day before and I said I would give it a try with zero experience. I did an okay job, but I captured some footage of a person talking to the bride and groom. A few weeks later that person passed away. I was able to give the bride and groom the audio of their last conversation because I had them mic’d up the entire day. It meant the world to them.
After that, I realized I could bring happiness to people using my videography and photography skills.
I decided to go full time and start my own videography and photography business. I got involved with the local community and the chamber of commerce. It took a few years, but it finally started to pay the bills.
I don’t like to stay stagnant in what I do. I have filmed video for weddings, local business promotions, band concerts and even a couple short films with my nephew. On the photography side, I shoot real estate, senior/grad photos, and I’ve even done headshots for local politicians and a local actor. I also have a drone license so I can get photos or video from the air!
It’s been a great career change.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Things were hard at first. Chasing clients was time consuming and frustrating. I can’t tell you how many times someone was “100% in” on a project just to cancel at the last minute. But persistence paid off, now I have a few repeat clients which is nice. I still chase clients to this day, but it’s not as heartbreaking when they go in another direction.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love to create scripts and shot lists for promotional videos. I’m good at visualizing a scene and making it happen in the camera.
I am most proud of the free work I have done for my community. I have shots lots of videos, and taken tons of pictures just to support the people in my community.
What sets me apart from the others is, I don’t take on too much work at one time. This allows me to focus on a client’s project and give it 100% of my effort. That also allows me to complete their projects quickly.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Join your local chamber of commerce. There may be a person in there that already does what you want to do. You can learn a lot from them. Plus, you will get to know other business owners and learn how they became successful.
Always keep learning new skills. Even if you don’t think you will need them, you will. Never stop practicing. Always listen to others in your field and never assume you know more than others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.winninghamstudios.com
- Instagram: winninghamstudios
- Facebook: winninghamstudios
- Youtube: winninghamstudios
