Meet John Aderotoye | Videographer/Photographer/Creative Director

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

Hi John, how do you think about risk?
I think risk is an integral part of creating the life you want to live. For as long as I can remember I’ve been a big risk taker, seeking every opportunity to elevate myself, whether it were in sports, academics or even in my personal life. At a young age I developed the mentality of “no risk no reward” that has helped me tremendously with my videography and photography career. After graduating college I took my first creative risk and purchased my camera and lens with high hopes that it would work out. I took the time to practice shooting and editing. I committed to trying new things and getting out of my comfort zone. After a few months, it was no longer uncomfortable, it became a passion, and I gained confidence in myself, which ultimately led me to taking more calculated risks. Nothing is guaranteed in life, but I knew that wherever I was putting my energy and effort into would work in my favor because I am not driven by results, I am driven by the intention to create. I think the greatest way to utilize risk taking in life and particularly my industry, isn’t necessarily always buying the latest gear, yet it is investing your time into your craft and not being afraid to reach out to people for help and opportunities to grow/learn. Time is the most valuable thing in the world, and if you use it wisely, your impact can be far greater than you imagined.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think this year I’m most excited about showcasing my talents to my audience and more so to myself. I have planned out many unique and innovative ideas that I look forward to executing. I am eager to tap further into my creativity and see what I am truly capable of. And I think that is what I am most proud of, is my dedication to improve. I have been able to see my own growth over the years, and it motivates me to know that my work is limitless and that with each photo or video I bring in new meaning to my brand. To get where I am today certainly wasn’t easy, it required me to consistently explore my artistic capacity while working on projects knowing I would make mistakes. And through my mistakes I was able to learn skills and techniques to not just showcase visuals, but stories, and I think that’s what separates my work from others. Ultimately I think one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on this journey is to create fearlessly, without regard to popular opinion. My work doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s so it is important for me to create on my own time and not be pressured by those around me. Digitally and in real life, I always choose to show up authentically, stay true to my vision and stay true to myself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I think If it were there first time in dc (my hometown) I would 100% take them to national monument and all the historical landmarks around the city. I think living around here we take most of it for granted because its apart out of everyday life. Overall I think the itinerary would go like this; brunch in the morning because I know every state doesn’t do that, go to the local museums in the afternoon, and then for the night life we can go into the city and have fun. I think there are a lot of fun things to do around here, maybe even rock climbing at great falls VA would be a unique experience if the weather is nice.

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

Website: jb-vogue.com

Instagram: @jb_vogue