“Being a visual creative can’t be taught—it’s something that lives within you, waiting to be seen by the world.” -Janaya Burke-Smith
I’ve been a visual storyteller for as long as I can remember. My journey began in high school, when a week-long art program opened the door to photography. While many students used the class to capture photos for Instagram, I felt something deeper. I instantly recognized that I had a natural eye for detail, framing, and storytelling. It wasn’t just social media for me; it was the beginning of a calling.
As I explored photography, I found myself wanting more than a single frame. I wanted to make those moments last forever. That’s when my love for film and video began. I started documenting my friends, our everyday lives, and the little moments that made us who we were. I’d edit the footage, host watch parties, and watch everyone light up as we relived our memories together.
I didn’t realize it at the time, but I wasn’t just capturing memories; I was creating meaningful art that resonated with people. That feeling, that connection, is what drives me as a Creative Producer and Video Editor today.