We had the good fortune of connecting with Vlad Levine and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Vlad, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work-life balance, huh? That’s an interesting topic for me because it’s evolved a lot over time. In the beginning, it was all about finding that perfect harmony between work and personal life. But as my passion for photography and videography grew, the lines started to blur. Now, I find myself working a lot, and honestly, there’s rarely a break. But the fun part? I enjoy every second of it.
My wife Jasmine and I realized the importance of personal time, so we’ve planned off days and activities together. We make it a point not to work late nights – or at least, we’re trying our best to stick to that! It’s all about embracing the process, loving what you do, and making sure to sprinkle in some fun along the way. It keeps the creative juices flowing
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My photography and videography work focuses mainly on brand identity, both for businesses and individuals. I collaborate closely with clients to help them state their mission and create a face for their brand. Whether it’s capturing headshots, product photography, or crafting videos that tell a brand’s story, my commitment to quality never wavers.
What sets me apart is my ability to bring out the essence of a brand and present it in a way that resonates with the audience. My journey as a self-taught artist has led me to work with some of the best in the industry, shaping my distinctive style.
I’m especially proud of how I’ve helped brands discover and portray themselves in a way they hadn’t seen before. It’s not just about taking photos or making videos; it’s about connecting, understanding, and crafting a visual narrative that embodies the heart of a brand.
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?
If my best friend were visiting for a week and I wanted to show them the time of their life, I’d make sure to include some of Dallas’s hidden gems and classic favorites.
We’d kick off Sunday with a chill breakfast at Three Egg Muffins in Lower Greenville, followed by a peaceful picnic at White Rock Lake.
Monday would be all about exploration, with a visit to the Natural Science Museum and a classic Texas meal at Whataburger.
Tuesday, we’d hunt for treasures at Curiosities Antique Shop, then enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Ichigoh Ramen Lounge.
Wednesday’s agenda includes the stunning Dallas Arboretum and a taste of Japanese BBQ at Niwa.
Come Thursday, we’d brunch at Parigi and explore the food lover’s haven at Central Market.
Friday would be all fun in the Bishop Arts District, with pies at Emporium and a local favorite meal at Del Sur Tacos.
And to wrap up on Saturday, we’d sample local flavors at the Dallas Farmers Market and wind down at Atlas Bar.
In my view, this itinerary offers an exciting blend of food, shopping, and culture, showcasing some of the most interesting and enjoyable spots Dallas has to offer.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Success is never a one-person show, and I have to give a massive shoutout to the SCORE mentorship network. They’ve been an invaluable resource in my journey, providing me with guidance, mentorship, and a community of like-minded creatives who pushed me to excel.
The insights and encouragement I’ve received through their programs have shaped not only my career but also my perspective on collaboration and growth. It’s about learning from others who have been in your shoes, and SCORE truly nailed that concept. So here’s to them, for being a vital part of my story and helping me reach new heights in my craft!
Website: https://www.opticalkind.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opticalkind/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vladlevine/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opticalkind
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/opticalkind-photography-dallas?osq=opticalkind