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The Client List



In the world of entrepreneurship it's easy to get consumed by the business of work. In 2013 I've fallen victim to the focus of workflow.  Recently, I've had to take a much needed moment to refocus and study.  The pause has allotted me a clear view, enabling me to continue in following the blueprints of other highly successful creative minds.  I guess it's safe to say that I'm back on the blogging/writing track.


In the film and photography industries one can find his or herself working with A-C list personalities daily.  I've been blessed to work with all of the above.  Recently, I reconnected with one of my original clients.  He's Gospel music's Steve McCoy.  Steve is a writer/producer and has worked with the likes of VaShawn Mitchell, Brittney Wright, Jason Nelson and a host of other great artist.  Steve and I met ten years ago at a time when we were both striving to make waves in our respective industries.  Fast forward and some of those waves have settled.

As a business owner and visual-journalist there have been moments in my career where my client list and their accomplishments have become delightfully-unpredictable.  Although I'm providing a service for clients, I also find myself becoming a cheerleader for their success.  My original clients like Steve McCoy aren't exempt from that support.  Over the years I've learned that working behind the scenes has it's benefits; I have the privilege of telling the "I remember when stories".  More importantly, I find myself having the best seat in the house as I watch their dreams come to life.  

It was my freshman year at East Carolina University, it was there where I learned my first "Client List" lesson.  It was my first training camp with the football team and I made a mistake in practice.  I was embarrassed, frustrated and disgusted to say the least.  The following day we went back and watched film and I was drilled with the visual punishment of my mistake over and over.  It was from the former Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots Tight End and newly hired Tight Ends coach Willie Scott, who unknowingly taught me a valuable lifelong lesson.  He said, "J, son the film never lies".  He made the statement as if he'd taken a glimpse into my future. 

Every since that day I've carried that statement with me into filmmaking and photography.  "The film never lies".  It's become the anchor statement of my career.  The "Client List" is bigger than money and the fame; it's also about maintaining integrity. It is important that we remain true to our craft and that our work never lies.  

I am glad to know that my clients have remained true to their crafts.

Steve McCoy "Rest" on iTunes  New Release for 2013 

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