Meet Khalil Johnson: Photographer, Videographer and Studio Owner

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

Hi Khalil, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Initially, I did not seek out to start my own business. I enjoyed progressing in the photography and digital media space, so I eventually began charging for services. It was not the idea of earning money that caused me to being photography. I simply enjoyed it and the money naturally came later. Once I decided that it was what I wanted to do, I absorbed all of the information that I could about good business practices and customer service. I realized that things were more serious once people’s money was involved.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The genuine connection that the company establishes with clients is what distinguishes our company. We understand that we are dealing with human beings first and that everyone is to be treated with compassion and respect. I am most excited about our future RDK Studios locations. I have plans to have them located throughout the southeast region of the United States. I got where I am by progressing one step after another and not biting off more than I could chew. It wasn’t easy but I’m a patient guy. I thought critically through challenging situations and utilized my resources/network when I didn’t have the know-how. Those who have had dealings with the company know everything that they need to know. If not, sooner or later, your friend or family member will let you know that RDK Productions is the way to go.

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?
My best friends are from the area (Decatur) so they might end up giving me suggestions. Haha, restaurants to visit: Fletcher’s (best wings & blue cheese to ever grace earth), Milk & Honey has a delicious brunch menu and Nancy’s Pizza. I haven’t been doing much hanging out at all since COVID-19 began, so I’m not 100% sure if my old hangout spots are still open or not. Edgewood and Peters Street were always solid lounge/bar options. My closest friends know my very favorite hangout spots, but I can’t give away my secret formula to the city in this interview.
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?
First, I thank my parents for being so supportive in every ambition that I’ve had since I was a child. Their emotional and financial support is the reason that any of this is possible. They sowed the original seeds. I thank my church, Second Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA, for providing the opportunity to learn camera operation through their media ministry that I was a member of while growing up. I thank Keonta Hammond and Kedarius Peoples for my first paid photography opportunities, which was photographing their events. I thank War Eagle Productions at Auburn University which is where I was employed and worked on several SEC Network/ESPN broadcasts for Auburn Athletics.

Website: www.reeldealkhalil.com
Instagram: @rdk_productions, @flo.atlanta & @khaliljohnson
Twitter: @therdkstudios & @khaliljohnson_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RDKMedia/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCA6AT8jcXsNEXjsH4PpbaQ

Image Credits
Khalil Johnson, Brandon Robinson