Meet LaToya Yeargans | Producer & Editor

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

Hi LaToya, why did you pursue a creative career?

Taking an idea and developing it into a story has always inspired me as an artist.  Thinking back on my journey it feels like this was meant to be.  When I was younger, my hobbies consisted of dance, writing, playing instruments and watching films. Story ideas have continuously played a part in my life because I’ve frequently wondered, “why?” and “what if?”.  Little did I know at the time, careers in tv and film existed.

This would take me all the way to college. My ideas became stories and I picked up my first camera.  After that, I started editing my stories on Avid.  Editing led to directing and producing, so not only can I create an idea and assemble it into a story, I can also turn the story into a series or film. At Winston-State University, I created a series called, Trapped on Campus, which was about on-campus relationships. I directed my thesis at Savannah College of Art and Design, Tree to Heaven, and in 2015 directed an independent short film called Soulmates?. Since then I’ve had the opportunity to edit trailers, short films, and music videos.

I knew I was committed deciding to be a part of the advertising industry. The one thing I’ve learned over the years from it all is patience. It took patience along with realistic expectations to continue my growth as a filmmaker. This means learning from my peers, not being afraid of answering and asking questions, and getting through situations when you’re right in the thick of it.

I want the world to know I am here to create and tell stories through tv & film. Stories with characters that impact the audience and explore the idea of connection. When it comes to my brand, people can come to me with their story ideas or actual content, and I can place it together. Let’s talk! My brand is also the place to find original ideas and content from yours truly. I’m always jotting down future story ideas. I’m ready for a challenge, bring it! I’m gearing up for the next year with the goal to produce more ads and short films.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

As for my full-time creative career, I have the pleasure of supporting clients by bringing their ideas to life as a content producer. I get to collaborate with my team, travel, and work on various campaigns including sports and healthcare ads.

From commercial ads to short films, I’ve been able to expand my skills not only as an editor but as a producer. Being a producer and editor has worked so well for me while on set. I know what things to look out for that tends to be left to review on the cutting floor. I’ve also had the pleasure to meet and collaborate with amazing people within the industry.

I take pride in also being an independent filmmaker.  I’ve been involved in some great opportunities with other local filmmakers. We will be entering film festivals soon for a few projects I’ve edited this year.  I plan to direct a new short film and premiere an online series next year.

I’m extremely proud of the work I’ve been able to be a part of up to now.  It’s been one of the best things to happen to my life and career.  By being in this industry, it never feels like a day at work.

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 to come to Atlanta, first place we would need to stop is Krog Street. I am such a fan of Gu’s Dumplings and you guessed it, I go for the dumplings. Next, they would probably want to take a few tours around Atlanta which works for me. I am still learning the city. After that, we will probably head up north and do a little shopping while grabbing some Andi’s ice cream. Cooking is also Trav and my thing, so we would host for a couple of days and our kids will play together as we all catch up. Hopefully there are some great films in theaters to go check out. Another hobby I’ve just picked up is hiking, so going along a trail to a stream is always fun! We would close it out by grabbing brunch at The Apothecary, which is just fantastic.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

First, I want to thank God for none of this would be possible.

I will say this is something unique for me. I’m always behind the camera watching the performance and taking pictures of the behind-the-scenes action so I’d like to thank Shoutout Atlanta for this experience.

To my grandmother Emma, who I know is watching over me, thank you for believing. You’ve been one of the foundational pieces for who I am as a fierce and ambitious human. To my mom, my sisters, and brother, along with the rest of my family, thank you for coming along this journey with me.  Travis Sr and Johnetta, you’ve been more than just in-laws to me, you’ve continued to pray, push, and inspire me.

Got to thank my professors who’ve given me so much encouragement, Todd Davis, Andrew Meyer, Peter Damski, and Dr. Michael Magruder.

Travis, my husband and partner, words are not enough to express how much I love you. To the crew, my kids – Travis III, Clark, and Ema, my life changed completely when you arrived. Our imagination together will take us anywhere we want to go. As your mom, not only will I always love you, I’ll always be here for you and will continue to challenge you to be your authentic self.

To Timothy Moody, Mae Manning, Kim Machado, Ashley Jones, Ishanay Spillman, Eddie Varnie, Jasmine Williams, Porsche Seals, and Ericka Chatman. I have to say it’s so great to have friends I can truly be myself around. Hopping on a call or text with you always brightens my day!

Thank you to all the artists out there. Your work inspires me to keep creating. If anyone is looking for a way into this industry, don’t stop. Keep at it. Continue to network, get on crews, and create content. The creative world continues to change, and this industry is always looking for the next new thing. All it takes is an idea.

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