Meet Derrico Alston | Director/Cinematographer

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

Hi Derrico, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Creating something out of nothing is very satisfying; knowing that others can benefit from what I’ve created is in itself a reward. Being creative was a huge part of my childhood. For some, it’s the only way they know how to express their feelings and emotions. For me, it’s the freedom of transforming everyday struggles, passion, joy, and thought into a digestible creation and the thought of a story. Visions or creations influencing and shifting ways of thought is what drove me in the path of directing music videos, short films and promos.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
With backgrounds in design, photography, and video production, my mission was to change the game with fresh, unprecedented content that represented who I am, where I came from, and where I knew media was headed. By identifying emerging trends and unsung potential in the marketplace, I am able to outmaneuver all the old media obstacles by paving my own lane. Simply put: I work harder, faster, and smarter. And I still do.

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’ve been influenced by a lot of people to follow my passion for film. I used to attend film class at Georgia State with a friend who was enrolled there. Watching the professor dissect a film, explain the structure of a film, how the lighting, camera movement and angles help invoke emotions was amazing to me! This was my introduction to the world of cinematography. Because of this, I enrolled in classes that certified me in Cinematography and NYU Tisch online for Film and TV Industry Essentials Diploma. I soon started shooting music videos for independent artists to help add visual to their music. I would like to thank the artist Tiara Nicole (@TiaraNicole) for introducing me to the music industry and showing me the game. I really want to thank another entrepreneur, Monique Ireland (@headofthehouseinteriors), co-Owner of Head of the House Interior Designs, for guiding me in the process of establishing my own business and motivating me to not give up. Thanks Babe! Also, my nephews who assisted me in the beginning as I built my portfolio.

Website: https://derricoalston.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derricoalston

Twitter: https://twitter.com/derricoalston

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derricoalston

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@derricoalston

Image Credits
@b3nblu3, @derricoalston