Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Devin Brautigam. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Devin, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
When I started out a few years ago, drones were somewhat newer especially to our area. Many folks never seen their hometowns and landmarks from the sky. Many people including myself fell in love with the spectacular view. Fast forward to today their quite popular. I found what sets you apart is your creative vision, not necessarily what you have. Even with my wedding videography. When others see success they want it and many may try and recreate your business, but they will never recreate your vision.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I started freelancing in 2018. Most of what I did was nature + architecture. I love freelancing because it allows you to express your creativity on your time. Just take a camera out and make the magic. Freelancing however is hard to generate income in rural Ohio. I needed something where I could take that same creative outlook and generate income so I can continue to do what I love. I figured I’d try wedding videography out and fell in love with it. Now I get to film for over 45 couples around the area in 2023 alone. From Above Aerial took a route I wasn’t expecting but I truly love filming weddings.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Patience. Adaptability. Open Mind. For me, these three were important. Patience because I was new to field. I came in knowing very little and learning was key for me to express my vision. Adaptability was important because there’s many different types of photography. You’ll never master every one, but being able to adapt and learn in each type let’s your grow as an artist and opens your capability in the field.
Open mind goes with Adaptability. Photography is learning from all sources around you. Other fellow experts photographers, youtube, trial and error and more. They all play a key in your success and keeping an open mind allows you to learn much quicker.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Focusing on myself and my work. I’ve learned everyone will have an opinion about you. Typically it’s the competition, but there’s a reason you are where you are and they are where they are. I don’t focus to much on everything else. I stick with what I know and enjoy what I love doing.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.aboveaerialohio.com
- Instagram: @AboveAerialOhio
- Facebook: From Above Aerial LLC
- Youtube: From Above Aerial LLC
Image Credits
Brittany Carol Photography
