Interview with Jason McWha – Directed Memories

Company: Directed Memories     |     Website

So, today’s interview is with an old high school friend of mine, Jason McWha. He is a long-time photographer/videographer and has a story has which in his own words, “has never felt like work”. For those of you who are unfamiliar, Directed Memories, it is a photography company not far from Winnipeg, MB where Jason captures the most precious and intimate moments through people and nature.

Now let’s hear what Jason had to say …

What inspired the passion within you to do what you do?
About 20 years ago, I was introduced to photography and the ability to see things in a very real and raw form. I photograph pretty much anything and everything … from weather to landscape scenery, to people and insects. After this learning curve set in, I immediately wanted to shoot bigger and better things.

How did you continue to ignite that fire within you?
Honestly, photography has never really been “work” for me. Since the first time I held a camera in my hand to the time I shot that first frame, I had a continued desire for the next photography session.

Did you start with a business plan? If so, tell me a bit about your vision and mission.
Initially, there was no business plan in place. Photography and videography was something I just really wanted to do. So, at the point where I started my business, I built it on trust, honesty and the ability to provide great services at affordable rates to all my clients.

What are some of the biggest challenges you feel your company is faced with?
There are hundreds of thousands of truly fantastic photographers and videographers out there, so I am constantly trying to come up with new deals and discounts as well as a set style that draws people towards my business … make myself stand out in the bunch.

Walk me through a typical workday – from when you eat breakfast in the morning to what you think about on your commute home THEN tell me about what you think about when you’re not in “the office”?
A typical work day for me starts the evening before which is usually cleaning my equipment, cards and charging up my batteries. All necessary equipment and contracts are laid out. Then, the next morning includes breakfast then packing equipment while going through the final check. When commuting to sets I usually try to clear my mind so that I can begin my day with a blank slate. Once I get to the set, it is “GO TIME!” After the set and commute back home, I usually take about an hour to unwind and spend some time with my family. After that, I begin post production on my sets and remove any imperfections or irrelevant pieces. Post process usually takes about 10 hours, broken up over 2 days.

What were some of the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome to get to where you are today?
One of the biggest thing I have had to overcome is accepting the difference between professionalism and perfectionism.

What are three words you would use to explain your business? Your personality?
When it come to my business I would have to say, honestly, integrity and reliable and then when it come to my personality it would definitely be outgoing, approachable and sincere.

Can you tell me about your ideal target market?
Honestly, I just remain open to any and every opportunity that comes into my path.

Looking forward into the next few years, what projects or goals are you most excited about?
At the moment I am truly excited to be writing a script for a mini web-based series of short movies called, “Awakened Nightmare” which is soon to be released.

If an entrepreneur asked for your advice and you only had a few minutes to give them your best tip, what would it be?
To enjoy the moment of what you are doing. The only thing you should be focused on is your passion and having fun!

Pick one thing in your life you may go back and do differently. What would it be and why?
I don’t know that I would really change anything at all. I am quite happy to be where I am and with the path that got me here. I believe the path that I chose was the right one!

What is it about your business that keeps you inspired?
Every single second I have held a camera in my hand! Although it is very much a business, I do not feel as though it is work. I have always held these words true to myself – “be passionate and love what you do, you will never work a day in your life again.”