February 12, 2020

Stephen Knight (VH1, Coca-Cola, & Fashion Shows): Graduate Story | F.I.R.S.T. Institute

Steven Knight, a talented filmmaker and photographer, shared his inspiring journey during an interview, shedding light on the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way. Steven’s career path has been nothing short of remarkable, showcasing the power of persistence, adaptability, and a keen understanding of the creative industry.

 

Diving Into The Professional World As A Creative

Starting as a recent graduate with a passion for film, Steven faced the initial challenge of acquiring the necessary equipment for his projects. His resourcefulness led him to explore platforms for renting gear, and it was on one of these platforms that he caught the attention of Amazon. Just three months after graduation, he received a message from Amazon offering him a fantastic opportunity to work on a film project. This change marked the beginning of his incredible journey, allowing him to gain a foothold in the industry.

While working on the Amazon project, Steven connected with someone involved in Caribbean Carnival celebrations. His creative skills led him to be hired as the videographer for a prominent carnival band, ultimately launching a new phase of his career. For the past three years, he has been traveling across the Caribbean, covering various festivals and handling all of their media needs.

Steven Knights Photography

Amid his newfound success, Steven took on a role he hadn’t initially anticipated. A trailer manufacturer searching for a videographer caught his eye. Although the job posting was somewhat vague, the offered compensation was compelling enough to pique his interest. To his surprise, the company specialized in making trailers for drag racing and NHRA, offering Steven the unique opportunity to work with high-speed racing events. This new path allowed him to explore the world of racing, including NHRA and funny car races. However there was much more waiting for Steven and his career just around the bend.

JFR Pit Crew

 

Becoming a Part of the Fashion World

Steven’s entry into the captivating world of fashion photography was a fortuitous twist of fate. His initial foray was not as a photographer but as an enthusiast attending a fashion show. Little did he know that this seemingly ordinary day would mark the commencement of an exhilarating journey into the glamorous realm of fashion photography. The connections he made that day, the people he met, and the relationships he cultivated would go on to play a pivotal role in shaping his career.

Through one of these serendipitous connections, Steven was presented with an incredible opportunity to delve into fashion photography, an offer he enthusiastically embraced. This serendipitous start set him on a trajectory that would lead to an illustrious career, capturing the elegance and vibrancy of fashion.

 

Capturing the Essence of Fashion

As Steven ventured further into the world of fashion photography, it became more than just a job—it evolved into a fervent passion. His innate talent and unwavering dedication caught the discerning eyes of industry professionals, propelling him to the forefront of the fashion photography scene. From 2020 onwards, he found himself consistently positioned behind the camera lens at every Miami fashion show, and his reputation as a visionary photographer only continued to grow.

Steven knight photography

The pinnacle of his journey saw him capturing the glitz and glamour of New York Fashion Week, an event that has long been synonymous with the cutting edge of the fashion world. And in 2024, he received an exclusive invitation to none other than the fashion capital of the world, Paris. These invitations were not merely tokens of his success but tangible proof of his artistic vision and exceptional talent.

Steven Knight’s career in fashion photography not only revolves around capturing the vibrant energy of fashion events but also extends to collaborating with some of the industry’s giants. His professional journey boasts remarkable experiences working with renowned fashion powerhouses, including Nike and Dolce & Gabbana.

Steven's photography

 

Steven’s collaboration with Nike, a global athletic apparel and footwear behemoth, has been an opportunity to blend the worlds of sports and fashion in a visually captivating manner. Whether it’s showcasing the latest athletic wear innovations or capturing the essence of an active lifestyle, Steven’s distinctive photographic style has proven to be the perfect match for Nike’s brand image.

On the other hand, his collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana, the iconic Italian luxury fashion brand, is a testament to his ability to delve into the world of high-end fashion with finesse. His work with Dolce & Gabbana has allowed him to convey the brand’s unique blend of tradition and innovation, epitomizing luxury and style through his lens.

Steven knights photography

These collaborations with Nike and Dolce & Gabbana showcase not only Steven Knight’s exceptional photography skills but also his versatility in adapting his craft to suit the unique identity and vision of each brand, creating visual stories that resonate with their audiences on a global scale.

Steven’s Career Moving Forward

In this remarkable transition, Steven underscored the importance of building a personal brand and approaching photography with the utmost professionalism. While collaboration is an inherent aspect of photography, he emphasized the need to strike a delicate balance between gaining exposure and preserving one’s professional image. He conveyed the idea that often, a photographer’s worth is measured not by personal promotion but by the resonance they can create with the client’s audience. He advised that a consistent, professional aesthetic on one’s platform can be more impactful than self-promotion.

Throughout his remarkable journey, Steven Knight has garnered invaluable insights for budding creative minds. His transition from film to photography serves as an illustration of the significance of adaptability, business acumen, and the willingness to explore new horizons. The dynamic and ever-evolving creative industry demands a blend of talent and strategic thinking, and by remaining open to collaborations, emerging talents can chart their own triumphant paths in the world of visual storytelling.

If you are an individual aspiring to expand your creative career in photography or film, we invite you to explore the offerings of our Digital Photography program and our Digital Filmmaking & Video Production program. These programs can equip you with the knowledge and skills required to embark on your own creative journey and make your mark in the world of visual arts.