Meet Kerry Lofton | Video producer, Photographer, & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kerry Lofton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kerry, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve been doing video production for about 11 years and spent most of that time building someone else’s brand and business. I’ve had the pleasure of working for some high profile companies including the Dallas Cowboys, NFL, AT&T and more but it was usually on their terms. I finally just decided that if I could give them 40-60 hours a week, why couldn’t I give myself that same time and surely I could work hard to build something valuable and successful. For so long, I knew I wanted and deserved more but could leave the comfort of knowing I had a steady paycheck. It’s scary to jump out there and do your own thin but worth it. I just had to kill that spirit of fear and go for it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a full time video producer and photographer. I never went to school for it, I just learned what I could by teaching myself, searching, reading, and asking questions and learning from others. I feel like my vision is what sets me apart from others the most. Others can work a camera like I can, photograph or video the same models, work in the same locations, but they don’t see it the way that I do. That’s not a slight to say I’m better than anyone, just different. That’s the beauty of art though, we all have a unique viewpoint and the world needs every single one them.

I got to where I am today for one, by the grace of God and His plans for my life. But also, through a lot of hard work. I don’t believe anything worth doing comes easy, otherwise the world would be filled with so many more successful people. I face a lot of adversity including rejection. Most people see some of the major companies and people I’ve worked with and assume it’s all great. What they don’t know is that I’ve been denied so many times in the past for work and opportunities. I’ve gotten just as many no’s as I’ve gotten yes’.

I just hope to inspire people to know that whatever they’ve been through, whatever is stacked against them, they can come out successful on the other side. It might take a year, it might take ten years, but if you stay committed, the hard work will pay off.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Dallas is such a goldmine for activities. It’s one of the best cities I’ve been to for a variety of things.

I’d definitely have to start off with some coffee at one of my favorite local spots. I spend a lot of time at Buzz & Bustle over in the Northpark area. They have some of the best coffee and drinks, really good pastries, an amazing staff who are all so friendly and welcoming, and a pretty nice work setup. It’s one of my favorite places to work.

From there I’d hit Maragame Udon for lunch. It’s one of my all time favorite places in Dallas.

I’d then walk it off by hitting Deep Ellum to visit one of my favorite sneaker stores ever, Sneaker Politics. They have roots from back home in Louisiana so I love to go in there and show love, chop it up with the guys who work there, and get some new clothes or sneakers.

My favorite thing to do when I’m hanging with friends is to find a nice patio and have some drinks. Some of my favorite spots have been the new ArtPark in Trinity groves. There’s plenty of shade and space and some great drink and food options a few short steps away, I love the vibes of Javier’s downtown to get some good Mexican food and have a cigar, or the back home vibes I get from Reveler Hall in Bishop arts. They have good drinks, a nice open atmosphere that spills out into the streets and patio, and jazz music! Couldn’t ask for more!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I’d like to thank God for the gifts and talents He has given me and the doors and opportunities He has opened. Every person I have to thank all points back to God’s plan for my life.

To my wife, who has supported me so much in building a business. She spoke and prayed this over my life before I could even see it. She supported me when I had nothing, and put money in my pocket when I didn’t have a penny to my name because she saw so much in me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her/

To my mom, who has prayed and supported me so much.

Nesby Phips, who taught me how to look at the world and tell a story.

Nasty and Starr, my beam up brothers, who invested in my business initially and believed in my vision behind a camera.

And so many others who I could never name them all, that has supported me, loved me, encouraged me, and pushed me forward, thank you!

Website: Kerrylofton.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/KerryLofton

Twitter: Twitter.com/KerryLofton

Image Credits
James D. Smith Adriana Herrera