Meet Vincent Parker | Photographer/Cinematographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vincent Parker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vincent, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my business because I always loved still photography and I love being behind the camera. I have been a tv news photojournalist for nearly 30 years. In those years I have seen a lot. Good and bad. But, the bad seems to be increasing. Still photography gives me a relief from the violence, tragedy and death that I see on a daily basis. I love seeing people smile when they’re in front of my camera. It brings joy to my heart and puts my mind at ease.
This time in my life is perfect for being a creative with my experience behind the video camera has made the transition easy. My clients always ask me how am I able to work so fast and I tell them this is easy compared to my day job. There’s no stress or pressure on me in my business. It’s fun and enjoyable. Life is good right now and I thank God for that!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My clientele has definitely increased over the last 2 to 3 years.  And, that has kept me busy.  Along with my day job as a tv news photojournalist, I’m busy 6 to 7 days a week.  But, I’m not complaining.  I enjoy  photo shoots and video shoots.  I love going to different locations and capturing different personalities.  I try not to over book myself because I don’t want to feel rushed and I want to make sure my clients get a good product.  When Covid shut down everything in 2020, I thought V. Parker Productions would suffer.  My thinking was no one will need pictures or videos, but I was wrong.  I stayed busy with headshots, etc. for clients who needed them for Zoom interviews and Social Media profiles.  I’ve been going strong ever since.  And, I avoided Covid.  Thank the Lord!!!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
So, I grew up in New Orleans. My best friend will most definitely want some NOLA food. So, I would take him to either Jubilee Joes or Cajun Roux Bar & Grill. For some live music we’re going to hit up The Perfect Note or Eighty Eight Piano Bar. We would take a trip to Montgomery to visit the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. And finally, either Avondale Brewing Company or Woodlawn Bar and Lounge!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a shoutout to my friend and former co-worker, Ron Pride.  During his lunch break, at WBRC, Ron would always have his Nikon camera outside taking pictures of nature.  At the time, I did not know he was a professional photographer and had a studio.  I remember telling him how I always loved still photography and he encouraged me to make an investment in a camera.  His encouragement has helped me to become a successful photographer.  Thanks Ron!  I also want to give a shoutout to my reporters at WBRC.  They were my first models.  I would practice my photography by taking pictures of them during live shots or out on a scene.  I would post the pictures  on Social Media and everyone loved them.  That practice time has paid off!

Instagram: @v.parkerproductions

Linkedin: Vincent Parker Photojournalist at Fox 6

Facebook: V. Parker Productions

Youtube: V. Parker Productions