At the age of 16, Josh Graz faced the common challenge of deciding what to pursue after high school. Unlike many of his peers who had clear goals, Josh chose a different path—one of exploration. He attended Mohawk Valley Community College (MV) with an open mind, focusing on general studies. This decision allowed him to take a variety of courses and explore different fields, rather than committing to a specific career path prematurely. His pragmatic approach also saved him from the high costs associated with four-year institutions, allowing him to figure out his passions without financial pressure.
During his time at MV, Josh stumbled upon his passion for photography and videography. He recalls the pivotal moment in his second semester when he began dabbling in photo and video work, an interest that quickly grew into a consuming passion. Despite the distraction it posed to his studies, Josh knew he had found something he loved. His time at MV provided the flexibility to explore this newfound interest, which eventually led to him completing his associate's degree while simultaneously building a budding business in media production.
Josh's journey into the media industry was not without its challenges. One significant aspect he emphasized was the value of working for free in the early stages of his career. In an era of instant gratification, Josh understood the importance of building experience and connections, even if it meant not getting paid initially. He reached out to potential clients and offered his services for free, a strategy that eventually paid off. This approach allowed him to build a portfolio and establish relationships that would be crucial for his future success.
Josh's career took a significant turn when he decided to relocate to Austin, Texas. The move was a strategic decision to expand his opportunities in a larger city with a vibrant creative scene. It wasn't easy leaving his comfort zone and family in upstate New York, but he knew it was necessary for his growth. The transition was tough; the first year in Austin was marked by low points and uncertainty. However, Josh persisted, leveraging social media to network and secure gigs, often starting with unpaid work to build his presence in a new market.
One of the notable aspects of Josh's career is his work in various high-profile events and industries. From major music festivals like Rolling Loud and South by Southwest to working with prominent brands like Netflix and Revolt TV, Josh has built an impressive portfolio. He has also worked in sports, covering events for the NBA and even attending NFL games. The process of securing these gigs often required him to obtain media credentials, a challenge he navigated by networking and showcasing his work.
Despite the glamour associated with his work, Josh highlighted some of the less visible challenges of the creative industry. One such issue is the loss of control over his work due to contractual agreements. Often, he has to sign contracts that prevent him from sharing his work until it is officially released, if at all. This aspect of the job can be frustrating, especially when some of his best work never sees the light of day.
Josh's journey from a high school student uncertain about his future to a successful media professional is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and strategic networking. His story serves as an inspiration to those who may not have a clear path laid out but are willing to explore and take risks. As he continues to grow in his career, Josh remains committed to his craft, constantly looking for new opportunities and challenges. His journey is far from over, and the future looks bright for this talented young professional.
