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

Hi Candis, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I think the artistic/creative career chose me. While I have always been creative and inspired by art, photos and movies, I never thought I would do this as a career. Actually, like a lot of people in my field, I started out in an office job as a legal assistant. And when I first started my wedding videography business I ran it as a side hustle for several years. But after my daughter was born, I took the leap full time, and have never looked back. I’m very grateful it worked out! This allowed me to have a more flexible schedule as a mom. I love that I’m paving the way for her to pick a career that works for her and show her that she can put her creativity to work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think what sets our wedding videography apart is the personal touches. We are so inspired by our clients. We get so excited for their individual wedding days and being able to tell their love stories.

I think the hardest thing for me personally to overcome professionally is definitely imposter syndrome and the fear of failure. One thing that has helped me a lot is being open about these feelings to my trusted industry friends. Knowing I’m not alone in these feelings and being open to critique has been vital.

The best advice I have received has been: Being humble enough to make mistakes and learn from them. It’s okay to fail a bit, just get back up and keep going. Know when to pivot if something isn’t working. Learn when to rest. These little gems have helped me a lot.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a great trip to LA, I would say you definitely have to start with the food. Breakfast at Lady Byrd Cafe in Echo Park, coffee from Civil Coffee in Highland Park and some thrifting. I personally spend a lot of time thrifting.. Then lunch at Joy in Highland Park would be a must! Finally you would have to devour some Villas Tacos in Highland Park. It’s honestly one of the best tacos in the city! And no trip is complete without a good hike In Griffith Park to see the gorgeous sunset, and a trip to the beach. My personal favorite LA beach (and I’m a bit of a beach snob) is Manhattan Beach. It’s clean and has a cute little pier to walk on, and great little downtown area to hang out in.

There is so much to see in Los Angeles. I love living here! California in general is such a great place because you can take a little drive and see the desert, mountains, ocean or city. And there is so much culture, diversity and history here.

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 wouldn’t be anywhere in life without the support or my family and friends. My husband has let me pursue this goal. My best friends have worked with me. And I’m so thankful to have amazing people by my side that encourage me and inspire me.

Website: https://www.pressfilmsandmedia.com

Instagram: @pressfilms

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