Meet Nick Pensa | Director | Editor | Business Owner

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

Hi Nick, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I grew up in Mays Landing, New Jersey and moved to Vineland when I was 18. I’m an only child and was raised by a single mother for most of my life. Seeing her work tirelessly to support the family led me to uphold the same work ethic and do everything in my power to make those around me proud. Our situation taught me the importance of independence, hard work, and believing in yourself. Having to step into an adult role as a child forced me to develop a matured outlook on life and a mindset of growth at a younger age than others. Additionally, coming from a small town gave me a certain perspective on running a business and presented both advantages and disadvantages compared to living in a big city.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Growing up, I found a lot of inspiration in music videos. I often looked up to directors like Cole Bennett and Dexter Navy. As I reached my high school years, the “Soundcloud era” of hip-hop was emerging and underground artists were quickly becoming mainstream. Around the same time, I began connecting with several artists in my area and finding interest in their music. Coming from a small town, there was not much of a music scene and even less of a film scene present at that time. Once I saw underground artists and filmmakers finally gaining some well-deserved recognition, it inspired me to bring that same energy to my hometown. I founded NP Visuals with the aim of capturing and sharing moments that might otherwise have been overlooked and placing a spotlight on hidden talent.

Over the years, my work has grown into much more. I’m proud of the versatility I was able to achieve within my art. Though I started out creating music videos, I’ve now shot and edited many barber/beauty videos, sports, commercials, promos, events, real estate, and more! I’m constantly overcoming the challenges of working within budgets and learning new techniques when approaching new areas of video production, but I think that’s the beauty of the industry. Every day is different than the last and there is never a truly “boring” day.

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’m a nature boy at heart and my friends and I have always spent a lot of time biking, exploring, and walking trails. I would probably take them to any nearby parks that have great views, especially if it’s by the water. Maple Lake, Belleplain State Forest, South Vineland Park, places like that. I’d also take them for a walk around The Ave in Vineland or for a trip to the beach/boardwalk by the shore if the weather was nice.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There’s a countless amount of people I’d like to thank for supporting me over the years and always believing in my vision. Most importantly, I have to thank my mother for teaching me what hard work was about and always making sacrifices so I can succeed in life. My girlfriend, Alondra, for supporting all of my decisions and taking care of me when I wasn’t there for myself. My cousin, Kevin Frank, for sharing a similar mindset of growth and pushing me to strive for greatness. Doug Stasuk of BFA Productions for presenting me with numerous opportunities, mentoring me, and helping me find confidence in myself and in my work. I have to thank all of my friends that showed me love and support throughout this journey and are understanding of my busy schedule when I can’t make time for them. The artists and businesses that have given me a chance to bring their visions to life. The other videographers and directors that have taught me better methods. Those that consistently comment and repost my work. Seriously, the list goes on and on. I simply cannot fit everyone in here and I consider myself truly blessed for all of the support I’ve received in my lifetime.

Website: www.nickpensavisuals.com

Instagram: @nick.pensa and @nickpensavisuals