Today we’d like to introduce you to Desmond Clay
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Photography wasn’t always my dream job. Initially, I was into graphic design, creating cover art for my music and exploring my love for drawing. At 14, I got my first cell phone, a Virgin Mobile phone with a 13-megapixel camera, which was impressive at the time. As phone cameras improved, so did my interest in photography. My first phone with a notable camera was the Samsung Galaxy S3, followed by the HTC One, which introduced professional camera features like depth of field, exposure, and ISO settings.
In 10th grade, I took a random cinema class just for the credit, but ended up really enjoying it. I learned about Alfred Hitchcock and other directors, their directing styles, and the basics of photography, which further fueled my passion for visual storytelling.
My first real camera was a Nikon L810, and I began experimenting with various shots, capturing random things that caught my eye. As I grew more serious about photography, I delved into different genres. By the time I was 18, I had amassed a wealth of knowledge from YouTube tutorials and saved enough from my full-time job to upgrade to a Canon T3i. This marked the start of my journey into professional photography.
I launched “Elevated Studios” and started booking small events, eventually shooting my first wedding at 20. My interests evolved from taking random pictures to detailed portraits and creatively directed projects. I found particular enjoyment in portraits, sports photography, fashion shoots, and weddings, appreciating the opportunity to capture unique moments and tell stories through my lens.
As social media evolved, I adapted by learning videography and started “Get Exposed” in 2018. “Get Exposed” was created to help under-recognized athletes showcase their talents and gain visibility. Our content helped athletes go viral on social media, significantly boosting their profiles. Through high-quality videos, we highlighted their skills, allowing them to gain acceptance into various sports programs and colleges, even securing scholarships for some.
In 2023, I rebranded to “Valid Media and Promotions” (VMP), focusing on high-quality media and marketing services. VMP offers tailored solutions for content creators and small businesses, combining creativity and execution to deliver impactful results. Today, our team is dedicated to understanding and exceeding our clients’ needs with exceptional media and promotional solutions.
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve faced many bumps in the road, both in life and business. These challenges have made me a better storyteller, photographer, videographer, and businessperson. I’ve developed well-rounded skills in media, obtained certifications, and grown my reputation. Despite the obstacles, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the growth I’ve experienced, shaping me into the professional I am today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been an a smooth road, Throughout my journey, life has presented numerous challenges that undoubtedly impacted my creative process. Despite facing periods where I didn’t shoot for months, I remained committed to learning and studying. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 and 2020, along with the personal loss of my grandfather to the virus, profoundly altered my trajectory. Financial constraints often made me question if I could pursue my dream of becoming a photographer. However, I came to understand that investing in knowledge was paramount for my growth. It’s the expertise acquired along the way that will ultimately propel me towards my aspirations.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
From the very beginning, every project I undertake is deeply personal to me. Whether it’s through photography or videography, I pour my heart and soul into every aspect. My love for the work extends from the meticulous settings on my camera to the satisfaction of my clients down to the last detail of their request.
For me, it’s not just about delivering a product; it’s about building lasting relationships with my clients. I don’t see them as customers; they’re my clients, and I cherish every interaction with them. I strive to cultivate relationships that go beyond a single project, forging connections that last a lifetime. It’s this dedication to personal connection and quality that sets me apart from others in my field.
While I’m recognized for my photography, my videography work is also gaining attention, especially with projects like the basketball hoop mixtapes and highlight films. Each project, whether completed or not, leaves a mark on me, driving me to continually improve and innovate in my craft.
One project close to my heart is the documentary I began filming for Cleveland Heights High School. Unfortunately, it wasn’t finished due to the Covid-19 outbreak, but the process deepened my passion for storytelling and strengthened my commitment to my clients’ visions.
Every step of the way, from initial concept to final delivery, I’m dedicated to exceeding my clients’ expectations and bringing their vision to life.
How do you think about happiness?
Well, for starters, family and red velvet cakes are my top happiness boosters, haha! Having free time is also a big deal because it means I can actually do what I want. Working in the service industry, you’re usually focused on making others happy, but when I get to exercise my creative muscles and make clients happy, it’s a win-win. Plus, getting paid for projects and traveling for work really amps up my happiness meter. It’s all about that feeling of serving others and making a difference, whether it’s intentional or not.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.Socialvmp.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/validmediapromotions?igsh=YzVkOXVhNHM2MWhw
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/hHSQcSFTQb56GehJ/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@tarantino.vision?si=u31-HQKhVRuLgGyn
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/tarantino.vision?igsh=cHBzZWFoeTBqdTJt
