Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew McKinney.
Alright, thank you for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us how you got started?
I’ve always loved movies, but figuring out what you want to do with your life is a considerable challenge. Throughout high school, my dream was to march in what’s called “DCI,” a professional marching band, traveling throughout the country and performing in front of thousands of people. Well, in college, I made it and marched 2 seasons with the bassline! Music has always been important to me, but I’d given up on incorporating it into my professional life reasonably early in high school. After jumping companies for a few years and an over-zealous move from Bowling Green, KY, to Miami, FL, I stumbled upon a significant bit of luck. I applied for a video editor opening at a production company in Nashville that makes music-related content. After 10 minutes of research on the company, I was thrilled. The content was excellent, challenging to make, and fun; you could tell the people loved what they did. I was lucky enough to win the job and have had a terrific time with it over the past 6 months!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
All roads have their bumps, and mine was no exception. I only lasted 6 months in Miami and was super unhappy, but it put me on a fast track to maturity. If I hadn’t gone through the stress of being the only person who shot, edited, and organized photo/video shoots and taught myself basic animation, I would not have been nearly as prepared to succeed now. Life will always have rough patches, but it’s essential to have faith that it has a way of having your back in the long run.
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?
I’m employed as a video editor, but I do much more. I research purchasing/renting new gear, teach myself how to use it, cam-op during productions, assist in pre-production, help construct set pieces, and do some light VFX during post-production. I love that my job lets me wear so many hats!
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Throughout college, I wanted to be a famous cinematographer. I had visions of getting awards, which feels silly now, but I think it served a purpose. Having an open mind about your future is something I believe to be necessary. I’ve never liked the famous interview question, “where do you think you’ll be in five years” because to think you can predict where you’ll be in 5 years, let alone 1, is painting yourself in a box. Goals and dreams are terrific, but I never knew I’d have as much figured out 3 years out of college as I do now, and I’m thankful for my mental flexibility.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.matthewmckinneyfilm.com
- Instagram: @matthewmckinneyfilm
Image Credits
1. Christina Bacon (IG – @mc_bacon3) 2. Christina Bacon (IG – @mc_bacon3) 3. James Procell (IG – @james_procell)
