Meet David Karon | Production Sound Mixer, Photographer & Creative Producer

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

Hi David, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
In hindsight, I’d really say that I didn’t have any other option- though I definitely tried. Before going fully into the business I had tried other things, but finding inspiration and motivation to grind away without a purpose really just made me feel like I was wasting my time/life.

As soon as I found a way to start working consistently I took every opportunity to do so. Then, I built on those connections and developed skills that I could use to advance and continue moving forward. I’ve ended up traveling all over the country and working with so many talented people on some really amazing projects. The friendships and memories alone have made it all worth it.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
There’s a few things I stress to people starting out. Learn as much as you can about what you’re doing, and then keep learning more whenever you can. Develop your network, both personally and online. A good mentor is truly the best thing you can have, but if they’re unavailable you also need to know how to quickly research and solve problems on your own. You’re going to end up in situations where you’re suddenly the “expert” on something, and you want to be an expert that either has the answers or knows how to get them.

The importance of soft skills can’t be overstated. This business has a lot of different people with different priorities, views and sometimes big egos. Your interpersonal skills can be the difference between getting hired again, or not. Balancing your business needs with professional relationships can be a very tricky dance, and it can take a while to get right. Don’t get discouraged if you make a misstep though, the industry is full of opportunity and great people that all had to learn that dance too.

Lastly, don’t take it all too seriously. A lot of us are doing this because we wanted careers that are more fun/interesting/etc than the traditional office job. Sometimes the high stakes deals/jobs are the most casual and carefree ones. So have fun

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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.
The Chinese restaurants all over town, but you’ll need a guide if you don’t speak the language or know what you’re looking for. Independent Mexican restaurants are amazing. The Magic Castle is always a great time, and nothing beats a good ride/drive up the PCH or through the canyons.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Yes! I wouldn’t have made it nearly this far without the help from a lot of different people. My very first gig as a Sound Mixer came from Producer Alex Kohnstamm, who I now work with regularly, who has become an awesome friend, and who’s dog Luther (cutest Shiba ever) is best buds with my Goldendoodle Baxter 🙂

Jared Elkin, a Sound Mixer in Minnesota, and an all around amazing and infinitely helpful person, is who I would call a Mentor and friend that I’d have been lost without. He shared his knowledge and experience with me freely and guided me a lot early on. And definitely still does from time to time lol.

My dad Ron, who I’ve learned so much from, and my wonderful, amazing Grandmother, Frima Karon, who is truly the kindest, sweetest and most supportive person I know.

Website: https://dkmediaone.com

Instagram: @dkfotola

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-karon/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xdavidkaronx/