Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Marie.
Hi Krystal, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I attended the Institute of Audio Research and received my Associate of Arts Degree in Audio Engineering. I started as an intern for different labels as an Audio Engineer and Songwriter. After about eight years or so, I realized that I wanted to expand my creativity. I had a meeting with the Torrero brothers, who spoke to me about scoring films. At that time, I knew nothing about TV/film. So, I decided to go back to school and attended Full Sail University as a film student. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Digital Cinematography. As well as obtained my Master’s of Arts Degree in Film Production. After graduation, I relocated back to Atlanta and hit the ground running. I started as most did as a production assistant and worked my way into the office. I realized what I love most as a creative is the gratification of being a part of a thought that went from its conception to its completion. As my projects grew, so did I. My work allowed me to gain mentors that helped me tap into the film scene in Atlanta, which started my career as a Producer.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Has it been a smooth road…Absolutely not! Being a single mother has its difficulties. Adding a career switch and going back to being green in a new industry, of course came with its challenges. The work/home balance was intense. A lot of sacrifices were made financially and emotionally. The hourly demands of my position pulled me away from family, friends, events, etc. Working in this business, you have to love what you do because that’s what it comes with. Your day-to-day is 12-14 hrs or more in some cases. Also, being a black woman in the industry, you have to work 10x’s harder than the next person just to get by.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a TV/film producer. I’m given the opportunity to supply the production with what’s needed to make the words on the page come to life. What I’m most proud of is being able to give another creative the opportunity to become greater in their craft. A door was opened for me, and I believe in paying it forward. What sets me apart from others is I get it done. Obstacles are there for growth, and I understand the importance of having a village.
What matters most to you?
Intellectual freedom because It gives you the right to think for yourself. As creatives, we take these ideas and emotions that we experience throughout life and express it through our art. Like Oscar Wilde said, “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life”. Our job is to make it relatable.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: krystalmarie.v
