Meet Derek Mastay

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Derek Mastay. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Derek , thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?

I’m a self-taught, seasoned photographer, cinematographer, and videographer with extensive experience. My creative outlets include rollerblading, filming, dancing, and my dedication to photography and videography. My company, Innovative Motion LLC, has been recognized with accolades such as Denver’s Best Photographer of 2020, the Best of 2020 Westminster Local Business Award, and was voted one of the top three videographers in 2023.

Throughout my career, I’ve faced numerous challenges, from starting my own business without funds for high-quality equipment to overcoming a severe injury that impacted my ability to film. Despite these obstacles and the critics, I’ve always remained committed to my craft. Rollerblading, in particular, has given me freedom, life, and a sense of limitless potential. It’s an extension of my body and a form of individualism.

Launching Airy TV, the first 24/7 rollerblading channel, was a significant step towards supporting the rollerblading community. This channel, available on smart TVs and Roku, is about creating a community that has given me so much.

One of my proudest initiatives is the “Big America Project,” where I travel to all 50 states to support and give a platform to women of color, showcasing their contributions and stories. This project, “Big America” (Black Is Gorgeous), is a nonprofit initiative. Through the sale of T-shirts, clothing, and accessories, we aim to raise funds to provide kids with skateboards, bikes, blades, and scooters, believing that the best way to keep kids off the streets is by putting them back on the streets with skates.

Mentoring up-and-coming photographers and filmmakers and working with renowned companies like Netflix, Amazon, NBC Universal, Discovery Channel, History Channel, and Fox/Hulu has enriched my journey. Despite the obstacles, my love for rollerblading, cinematography, and my dedication to the community and my craft continue to drive me forward.

Rollerblading, and photography has given me opportunities and connections I never imagined. My journey is about proving that rollerblading is an art form that fosters individual expression and community growth. My experiences have taught me resilience and reinforced my dedication to my passions that I continue to document through the lens.

In the face of critics, I focus on my passion and the positive impact I can make through my work. I remain committed to my craft and my community, always pushing forward despite the challenges. You will never be criticized by those doing less than you.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m the founder of Innovative Motion LLC, where we specialize in wedding cinematography and commercial projects. We’ve been recognized as Denver’s Best Photographer of 2020 and one of the top three videographers in 2023. Our goal is to be one of the top wedding cinematographers in Colorado, creating timeless memories for couples and producing impactful commercials for businesses.

However, my most exciting project is the “Big America Project” (Black Is Gorgeous). This nonprofit initiative aims to support and give a platform to women of color across all 50 states, showcasing their contributions and stories within their communities. Through the sale of T-shirts, clothing, and accessories, we raise funds to provide kids with skateboards, bikes, blades, and scooters. The idea is to keep kids off the streets by giving them wheels and positive outlets and opportunities to stay active and engaged, and of course helping woman of color in numerous ways.

Innovative Motion has always been about more than just capturing moments; it’s about creating a positive impact. Through our work in both commercial and nonprofit sectors, we aim to inspire, support, and give back to the community.

For more updates and information, follow us on Instagram at @BigAmerica and @innovative_motion.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities have been most impactful:

Self-Belief: Never give up on yourself. Believing in your abilities, even when faced with challenges, is crucial. Trust in your vision and stay committed to your goals.

Continuous Learning: Always be hungry to learn. Stay curious, seek knowledge, and be open to new ideas and experiences. This mindset helps you grow and adapt in your field.

Patience and Kindness: Be patient and kind in all aspects of life. Understand that success takes time, and treating others with kindness creates a positive environment that fosters collaboration and growth.

Advice for Early Journey
Cultivate Self-Belief: Start by setting small, achievable goals to build your confidence. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and learn from setbacks without losing faith in yourself.

Stay Curious: Dedicate time each day to learning something new. This could be through books, online courses, or even networking with industry professionals. Embrace every opportunity to expand your knowledge.

Practice Patience and Kindness: Remember to live, love, and enjoy life. Approach each day with a positive attitude, and treat others with respect and empathy. Building strong, supportive relationships is as important as developing your skills.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

My parents taught me a lot about emotions—anger, happiness, and joy. Although they are good people, I was often treated differently, seen as a lost one or a troublemaker. I struggled through school but emerged with six degrees, including a master’s. Despite financial challenges, my parents have not been supportive, even telling me recently to get a “real job.” Their lack of support has fueled my determination to succeed on my own terms and prove that my path is valid and meaningful.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

@drewkennedyphoto
@jamesdrakefilms
@realadriancova

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