Conversations with Derrick Arthur-Cudjoe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Derrick Arthur-Cudjoe.

Hi Derrick, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love for film and photography started at a very young age in Ghana. Even though I had aspirations of pursuing medicine and supporting low-income communities through non-profit efforts, I always had this burning passion for capturing moments through a lens. I was that middle schooler who carried a camera on every school trip, capturing candid moments of friends and selling those pictures for a little profit. It was a small start, but I could feel the power of storytelling through images.

After moving to America, I began honing my skills by immersing myself in online platforms like YouTube, soaking up tutorials, and learning from the vast community of creators. It was during this time that I realized the immense potential of social media in shaping one’s craft.

My photography journey took various turns. I started by capturing moments at church events, which later evolved into a fashion photography venture (Motive 8 Concepts). In college, I found myself working for the Georgetown athletics department, where I dabbled in sports photography. It was an exhilarating experience, and each step was a building block for what was to come.

The turning point came when I, alongside my brother, decided to venture into the world of weddings. Motive 8 Weddings, a company dedicated to capturing the essence of one of the most special days in people’s lives was birthed through Motive 8 Concepts. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but the consistency and persistence I learned early on served as the backbone of our growth.

Through Motive 8 Weddings, we’ve been able to weave together beautiful stories for couples, preserving their moments in time. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be a part of such significant milestones in people’s lives.

Fueled by the belief in giving back, I founded a non-profit organization, Motive 8 Global, that focuses on providing crucial support and access to healthcare and education in low-income communities. The venture is funded by a percentage of proceeds from our film and photography venture. It’s a testament to the transformative power of visual storytelling, illustrating that our craft can extend far beyond capturing moments and also serve as a catalyst for positive change.

If there’s one piece of advice I’d give to aspiring photographers and videographers, it would be to stay consistent, persist through challenges, and never stop growing your craft. Use others as mentors and inspiration, but don’t let their talents intimidate or derail you from your unique gifts. It’s easy to lose yourself in comparison, but the real magic happens when you embrace your own journey and let your passion guide you.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Indeed, the road to building Motive 8 Weddings and making a difference through my craft hasn’t been a seamless one. Behind the glamorous scenes captured on film, there were countless sleepless nights spent meticulously editing, an experience that most creators share in.

There were moments where I had to forego personal comforts and even vacations to meet tight client deadlines or deliverables. Balancing my photography venture with the demands of a full course load through undergrad, grad school, and juggling a full-time job in consulting was no small feat. It required an unparalleled level of discipline, self-care, persistence, and intentional time management.

There were instances where I found myself immersed in coursework and even final exams while simultaneously coordinating wedding shoots. Learning customer service skills was a crucial aspect of the journey. Navigating the pressures of client expectations, prioritizing tasks, and growing a team all demanded a steep learning curve.

The key takeaway from these challenges is the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. It’s not just about capturing beautiful moments but navigating the complexities of running a business, managing clients, and fostering a team. Through it all, I’ve learned that success in this field requires a delicate balance of passion, perseverance, and the ability to thrive even during low-booking seasons and when under pressure.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At the heart of my work is the art of capturing life’s most precious moments through event photography and videography, with a particular emphasis on weddings and how love is experienced around us. At Motive 8 Concepts, we pride ourselves on going beyond just documenting events; we strive to craft visual stories that resonate and endure.

What sets me apart is not merely the technical proficiency behind the lens but a passionate commitment to making each story count. I prioritize client needs with an unwavering dedication to excellence, ensuring that every captured moment is a masterpiece in its own right.

One aspect of my journey that fills me with immense pride is the establishment of Motive 8 Global, a non-profit initiative born from Motive 8 Concepts and Motive 8 Weddings. Through Motive 8 Global, we have been able to contribute to meaningful change in Ghana, my homeland. From donating vital resources to hospitals to the renovation of a 13-unit classroom and creating spaces for arts and science education, our non-profit has played a crucial role in supporting education and healthcare delivery in underserved communities. This work goes beyond the lens, illustrating the transformative power of visual storytelling in making a positive impact.

I take a lot of pride in a personalized approach to each project. I view clients not just as patrons but as an integral part of the creative process, treating them like family. This mindset fosters a collaborative environment where their unique stories can be told in the most authentic and beautiful way possible. The combination of passion, client-centric focus, and a commitment to creativity distinguishes my work, making every project a memorable and cherished experience for all involved.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
In reflecting on my journey, I wouldn’t attribute it solely to luck; rather, I see it as a manifestation of grace. I am profoundly grateful to God for bestowing talents upon me and my team, for the unwavering support we’ve received, and for every opportunity that has allowed us to showcase our skills. Whether it’s the weddings and photoshoots that have come our way, the diverse and inspiring individuals I’ve had the privilege to meet, the unique spaces I’ve been fortunate to capture, or the educational opportunities that have shaped my craft – each aspect is a testament to the grace that has guided my path.

Additionally, the role of social media algorithms showcasing our work cannot be overlooked. It’s not just about luck; it’s about leveraging the power of these platforms to amplify our voice and reach a broader audience. This, in turn, has opened doors to different cultures and experiences, enriching our creative perspective.

While challenges and setbacks have been part of the journey, the grace that has accompanied every step has been the driving force. It’s the convergence of talent, hard work, divine favor, and the support of those around me that has shaped both my personal and professional life. In acknowledging this grace, I am reminded of the importance of humility, gratitude, and a continuous commitment to honing and sharing the gifts we’ve been blessed with.

Contact Info:

• Website: motive8concepts.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derrickarthurc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motive8concepts
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickarthurc/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/derrickarthurc?lang=en
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Motive8concepts
• Yelp: https://www.instagram.com/motive8concepts/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/motive8weddings/

Image Credits
Photo Credits: @fransorm_studios on Instagram (Fransorm Studios)