22 Year old ATL Videographer Marko Steez Talks Working With Lil Baby & More

JukeboxCulture.com Talks with Marko Steez, a 22 year old Atlanta Videographer who has shot with industry artist such as Lil Baby, Future, Money Man & more!

Marko, what inspired you to start film making?

What inspired me to start film making was really a short story. I had been rapping for a month and started spending a lot of money on studio time. After that, I thought to myself “Why am I paying so much for studio time? I should find something these studios and artists need to trade for studio time.” And then I got an idea. I went to Best Buy and bought a camera and started trading photo shoots for studio time here and there. And after a while I just got into it. Eventually someone asked “Doesn’t that camera do video too?” And it all went from there.

What was your first Camera/Lens?

My first camera / lens was a Canon 70D and the little 18-55 kit lens that they give you when you buy a Canon.

When did you get to go full time as a film maker?

I went full time as soon as I started. I never really liked working a job I was always a hustler. I made it happen. Being behind the camera was fun to me and being able to make money doing something you like doing is a blessing.

Coming up, what struggles did you face as a beginner?

As a beginner, there’s a lot of struggles. Finding your strengths and weaknesses is important. And finding your true character and creativity is also something you’ll struggle with. Not knowing if your work is ever truly perfect or as good as you think it is. I feel like the biggest struggle I had was being in a limited environment when I started in Kansas City. That’s why after a year, I moved to Atlanta. From there I’ve flourished.

Which do you enjoy more, shooting or editing?

I enjoy shooting more than editing because you can directly engage with the artist and the production. Directing is a passion to me and I’m very good at it. I love being able to direct the talent and the scene and give the viewer a story to watch.

Whats your current favorite video you’ve shot/edited and why?

My favorite video to date is the Future video I did called “Last Name” featuring Lil Durk. It was so spontaneous but the video came out nice. I love working with Future because he has his own creative side and he’ll show it.

What do you do when you feel a creative-block?

Creative blocks aren’t really a problem for me. What I’ve found helps with creativity is to change your environment often. Don’t make yourself feel like you’re working a job. Many people get stuck creativity because their environment never changes. They’ll sit in their office or living room, wherever they edit or plan videos, and they’ll stay there all day and do that repetitively. You’re going to get frustrated being in the same place every day. That’s why I like to be in my office when I’m editing and writing. And while I’m making treatments I’ll go scout locations and explore the city and come up with things as I see them. A change of environment is very important. It gives you freedom and a different perspective.

What was your first “big gig” and how did you land it?

I wouldn’t say I had a first “big gig”. I landed a lot of opportunities based on my personal relationships I had been building with people over the years. A lot of my bigger videos came from people knowing my work and my name. And I was always doing something big, even in the beginning. I teamed up with other directors to collaborate on large projects for Lil Baby, Quando Rondo, Waka Flocka, Young Scooter, and many more artists here in Atlanta.

Who’s some of your favorite artists you’ve worked with in the music industry?

My favorite person that I’ve worked with is Lil Baby. He has a mind of his own and uses it. A lot of artists don’t see a creative vision for their projects and Baby definitely isn’t like that. He’ll be behind the camera looking at the screen and analyzing the scene, telling models to move around in certain shots, adjusting people’s outfits. I feel like Lil Baby wants to direct a movie one day. We’ll see…

Whats your favorite part about film making?

My favorite part about film making is the creative process. Being able to start with nothing and come up with something artistic and creative is something special.

“The Film Truck” This is a genius idea and i love the concept. How did youcome up with the idea and what advantages has this brought you?

The Film Truck came about because I was always renting equipment from big rental houses in Atlanta and I wanted to have equipment of my own. I allow other directors to rent out the truck and my equipment as well as DP projects and assist with big productions.

How much is it to book the film truck and what kind of packages do you offer?

The Film Truck currently starts at $250 per day and $350 with a driver. The entire truck is available for rent and can be rented for multiple days and big productions. I rent out single lights or certain packages including camera packages and grip, supports, etc.

Biggest goals for 2020?

My biggest goal for 2020 is to shoot a feature length film and watch it on the big screen. That’s always been a goal of mine.

Closing:

– Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to share my insight with you and your viewers.