Today we’d like to introduce you to Zaya Johnson
Hi Zaya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Ever since I was little I have loved creating. It began with my YouTube toy videos when I was probably 8 years old. Soon I got into creating that classic 2014/2015 style of YouTube videos where I did makeup tutorials. I realized how much I loved creating and editing. Putting each piece together in my style. I found out the high school I was going to had an AMAZING video program. I quickly did all the requirements to join and found myself in love. All the equipment, opportunities, and drive. My teacher pushed me to keep creating and essentially helped me become extremely devoted to learning and honing this craft. Senior year, I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Create. I quickly started reaching out to intern and started being a PA on sets. After I graduated, I started to advertise myself. I found myself wanting to start doing music content, and quickly emailed someone connected to a huge local festival in Utah. After months of communication and practice, I got on the team. I realized how much I loved it, no matter how stressful it got. Everyday was like my Disneyland. I kept getting more work after that, it became my first big connection. I even wrote my own short film (not yet produced) and kept being a PA and freelancing as well as surrounding myself with other amazing creatives which has brought me to where I am now. I have multiple clients Ive worked with, festivals, sets, but most importantly I have found my community.
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?
Doing what I do has not been easy. Being your own boss as a freelancer is hard. You get a ton of no’s, ghostings, and sometimes you don’t feel appreciated. I have found myself constantly comparing myself to others, not feeling proud of myself, or getting a creative block. I’ve had months where there is hardly any work. I have to remind myself my worth and that comparison is the thief of joy. Learning how to push myself has been hard, but it is so rewarding in the end.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a freelance videographer, editor, and PA (DP and director in the works). For the majority of my work, I am doing every position needed in a typical crew. I think what’s special about me is how broad my work is and my tenacity. I can do a lot of different kinds of creative work, and I am always open to trying new things which makes me very adaptable. I like to think out of the box. I love seeing my creative shoots that are a product of my brain child come to life, I feel so proud after each one knowing all the work and love I put into it.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My high school film teacher, Zach Durrant helped me learn the basics and why I love what I do. He pushed me to keep trying and think differently. He always wanted to help me improve, and knew I had more to give. He has helped me grow to where I am now, without him Im not sure if this would have been my career path. My friend, Miguel Mendoza has helped me immensely. He helped me get on my first huge festival and has since given me amazing advice, new clients, and helped me keep my chin up. All my other media friends have uplifted me and constantly been a source of support. We are a tight knit community and are always there for each other.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zayacreativez/
