We recently connected with Derrico Alston and have shared our conversation below.
Derrico, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Creating something out of nothing is very satisfying; knowing that others can benefit from what I’ve created is in itself a reward. Being creative was a huge part of my childhood. For some, it’s the only way they know how to express their feelings and emotions. For me, it’s the freedom of transforming everyday struggles, passion, joy, and thought into a digestible creation and the thought of a story. Visions or creations influencing and shifting ways of thought is what drove me in the path of directing music videos, short films and promos.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
With backgrounds in design, photography, and video production, my mission was to change the game with fresh, unprecedented content that represented who I am, where I came from, and where I knew media was headed. By identifying emerging trends and unsung potential in the marketplace, I am able to outmaneuver all the old media obstacles by paving my own lane. Simply put: I work harder, faster, and smarter. And I still do.
I’ve been influenced by a lot of people to follow my passion for film. I used to attend film class at Georgia State with a friend who was enrolled there. Watching the professor dissect a film, explain the structure of a film, how the lighting, camera movement and angles help invoke emotions was amazing to me! This was my introduction to the world of cinematography. Because of this, I enrolled in classes that certified me in Cinematography and NYU Tisch online for Film and TV Industry Essentials Diploma. I soon started shooting music videos for independent artists to help add visual to their music. I would like to thank the artist Tiara Nicole (@TiaraNicole) for introducing me to the music industry and showing me the game. I really want to thank another entrepreneur, Monique Ireland (@headofthehouseinteriors), co-Owner of Head of the House Interior Designs, for guiding me in the process of establishing my own business and motivating me to not give up. Thanks Babe! Also, my nephews who assisted me in the beginning as I built my portfolio.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
First reading. As a visual person, written words instantly transform into vivid imagery in my mind. It’s as if stories and ideas leap off the page, becoming tangible before me. Reading has not only sharpened my creative skills, but it also keeps me in a constant state of inspiration.
Second it would be music. It’s not a secret that music has the power to transport us to different worlds and allow us to revisit forgotten memories. For me, music serves as a catalyst for creativity. Whenever I encounter a creative block, I turn to music. It allows me to effortlessly flow with the melodies, visualizing and crafting captivating stories in my mind when working on a treatment for a music video.
Finally, a higher education. While there may be debates surrounding the necessity of college for those pursuing creativity, I firmly believe in the value of higher education. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals, both classmates and professors, has been invaluable to my growth. The knowledge and structured learning I acquired during my college years have shaped me into a more disciplined and self-taught creative. Continual growth and the acquisition of knowledge are essential in the creative fields, and college has provided me with the skills to excel in these areas.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Being overwhelmed is something we all experience, especially when our livelihood and income depend on our work. As a creative, I’ve found that balancing the business and creative side of things can be incredibly stressful. When it comes to dealing with overwhelming feelings, there are two effective approaches: – Stepping away from the stress and taking a deep breath help provide a fresh perspective when you come back to it. This break can help you approach things with a renewed mindset.
– Completion of work not only brings a sense of accomplishment, but also lifts the weight of stress and overwhelm off your shoulders.
By utilizing these strategies, I’ve been able to navigate the challenges of being overwhelmed and find a healthier balance in my creative endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://derricoalston.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derricoalston
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derricoalston
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/derricoalston
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@derricoalston
Image Credits
@b3nblu3, @derricoalston
