Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyle Hawthorne.
Hi Kyle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I first started my career by finishing my graphic design degree in college in 2012. I worked for a screen print shop and then moved to a large-format printing shop doing prepress and design. I’ve always had a passion for taking photos and making videos though–I would use my iPhone to make videos and photos and really enjoyed that.
With that–I had the opportunity in 2017 to step away from my 9-5 job to start my own business as a photo/video freelance contractor learning from my friend who ran a photo/video business. I started off shooting photos of townhomes and smaller single-family homes. Eventually moved into working with a 35k subscriber YouTube channel and helping that grow to 140k+. I also did commercial shoots pretty regularly.
I finally found my stride in helping businesses with content creation for social media and website use. Reels, marketing photos, hype videos, testimonial videos, anything, and everything. While I still do some graphic design jobs occasionally; photo and video is my passion. I happily run my small business helping other businesses with content creation, and visual identity, just overall helping them look professional and/or badass.
Most of my business comes from word-of-mouth from happy clients turned friends. I’ve worked with all types of businesses ranging from personal trainers, landscaping, roofing, auto body shops, musicians, a cutting board company, barbers, aspiring models, a tiny home company, multiple real estate companies, and several more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but smooth seas don’t make good sailors. My biggest struggles along the way have been just believing in myself. Imposter syndrome, or lack of motivation, dealing with self-employment documents, taxes, insurance, and all of the business side of things is not where my strengths lie.
I thrive on creation, capturing moments, pouring my style into projects, and what I subjectively believe is the fun side of things. Finding clients, spreading my work, and dealing with the business side of things are probably my biggest challenges. Thankfully everything else seems to fall into place and I’m very grateful for what I’m able to do right now.
Everything always works out how it needs to.
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?
I help anyone or anything look good.
I mostly work with businesses that need help with branding, and photo/video content creation for social media or website use. Whether it be a company with a product that needs to be listed on Etsy or social media–I can help. Or an artist that wants to look awesome during a performance. Or even a company that provides a service that they need help showing off. I can work in any preferred style–or give my projects a style of my own.
I specialize in photo/video content creation. I’m known for the quality of my work and attention to detail. I’ve been doing this for around 5 years and am very proud of the quality of work I’ve been able to achieve.
I think what sets me apart is the attention to detail–how the shots are set up, composed, transitioned, colored, smooth footage, and general professional quality. It’s hard to exactly put it into words without the visuals to back it up.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why.
What matters most to me is trying to be a good person, a good son, a good friend, and a good neighbor. That’s just an inherent drive I have. I’m not sure I can explain it further.. it just feels good and right.
Family is important to me. They’ve always been there for me. Especially my mom. I try my best to support her during any hardships in life or health. My friends are important to me. Having genuine, close, wonderful people I can count on and also help is important to me. Music is important to me. I’ve grown up with music and love playing it as well as enjoying it.
And overall creativity and art are important to me. There’s just something about creating something awesome that you’re proud of that is so gratifying and fulfilling.
Pricing:
- Day Rate: $400
- Editing Rate: $75/hr
- Logo/Graphic Design: Min $400 a job
- Custom Monthly-Ongoing-Work-Packages Available
- Retainer Rates Available
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hawthornecreative.com
