Meet Damon Self | Cinematographer & Video Production Company Owner

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

Hi Damon, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Whenever I started my own business, I had no idea it would have come this far. I started out with photography as many people do, but I just had the deeper feeling to take a chance at cinematography because I just loved the way the moving images created emotion. The thought process was something more of a blessing. It took years for me to create the business after my first camera, and then, a year to even flesh out my final business plan with profit goals. It was an opportunity that landed in my lap whenever I took an art class in college, and had received a message from one of my friends from high school asking if I wanted to buy one of their used cameras & from there it began my journey into realizing how this could make me a living. It was about telling stories that matter. From the beginning, I wanted to build something that wasn’t just another production company but a brand that inspires, captivates, and leaves a lasting impact through visual storytelling. My mission is to deliver polished, engaging content that leaves a lasting impact while growing the Kingdom of GOD & inspiring others to do the same!!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At NOMAD, my art is more than just an image on the screen—it’s about storytelling with purpose. My goal is to create cinematic visuals that evoke emotion, capture authenticity, and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s a wedding film that feels like a timeless love story or a branding video that elevates a mission, my goal is to craft visuals that truly resonate.

What Sets Me Apart
What makes NOMAD Cinematics unique is the balance between cinematic excellence and emotional depth. I don’t just document moments—I craft films that make people feel something.

Proud Moments & Excitement
I’m most proud of the moments when my work inspires and moves people. Seeing a couple tear up watching their wedding film or a business owner feel empowered by their brand video reminds me why I do this. Right now, I’m especially excited about growing NOMAD Cinematics into a high-end video production company that specializes in faith-based storytelling and cinematic branding.

The Journey & Challenges
Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced uncertainty, financial struggles, and the challenge of standing out in a saturated industry. I’ve lost money on bad investments, struggled to find consistent clients, and had moments where I questioned if this was sustainable.

But I learned that perseverance, faith, and continuous learning are the keys to success. I committed to improving my craft, networking strategically, and most importantly, putting God at the center of my business. Once I aligned my purpose with His, doors started opening in ways I never expected.

Lessons Learned
Excellence Matters – Quality will always stand out. Cutting corners never leads to lasting success.
Relationships Are Everything – This industry thrives on trust and referrals. Serving clients well leads to more opportunities.
Faith & Patience Win – Success isn’t overnight. Staying committed, trusting God, and refining my vision has been essential!

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?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best mix of food, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s a small itinerary

Foods:
Breakfast: Atlanta Breakfast Club – A must-try spot for Southern-style breakfast (their chicken & waffles hit different).
Midday Activity: Walk The BeltLine and explore Ponce City Market for cool shops, rooftop games, and skyline views.
Dinner: Staplehouse – Elevated Southern dining with a cozy vibe.
Night Out: SkyLounge at the Glenn Hotel for rooftop cocktails with a view of the city lights.
End with a sunset Ferris wheel ride at SkyView Atlanta.

Here are just a couple things that I would recommend to my best friend visiting the city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Yes. Let us jump right in! As a Christian Business Owner and Loving Human, I Give ALL of my Credit to Jesus Christ. Without my journey in faith, I don’t think I could have withstood the dry seasons of my business or even the strikes in the film industry, to be honest. It has taken a different level of trust to know that in those tough seasons, he will make a way. It has been so eye opening to have awakened to the truth and knowledge of our great Lord!! I do also want to mention my extremely supportive family, the ones that are still here in my life, my grandmother(s) emphasis on the S!! The support from the women in your life is like a ship that could never sink. you just have to keep going! Also, Mom, Step Dad, Dad, & Sister have supported me in every single step of the way, I am blessed to have such a loving family.

Website: https://www.nomadcinematics.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-self-0056b2204/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damon.self.5/

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

Other: Video Production Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadcinematics