Life & Work with Emily Skeels

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Skeels. 

Hi Emily, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My love for video and photography started when my dad handed me his camera for the first time. Since then, I’ve been obsessed with collecting memories and telling stories through visuals. 

I really started to understand video during my college job with the University of Minnesota’s athletic department – as part of their live broadcast team. 

My love to telling stories through video continued throughout college and after as I met incredible people that I wanted to tell their stories and through my travels. 

I started my business Skeels Creative, LLC in 2020 when I continued to gain video clients. I’m still in the beginning stages of my business and learning lots every single day! 

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?
It has been an interesting journey to where I am today! First, because I have done all of my creative work on the side of my main job. 

Experience takes time, which can be frustrating. So there was definitely moments where I wish I was further along in my skills or my business, but I needed to trust the process and just keep working toward my goals. 

As I continue to grow my client base and hone in on my skills, I have to still remember that lesson. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a run & gun filmmaker. I keep my camera kit small and really try to focus on the story instead of the fancy cinematography – though, of course, I take great pride in my shooting as well. 

My secret weapon has always been empathy – I work really hard to understand my client, what’s important to them, and the intent of the film we’re making together. A pretty video is nice, but adding strategy to ensure the client is getting exactly what they want, that’s magic! 

I’m proud of the first projects I fought for. I’m an introvert, so finding new clients is always a challenge! But I put myself out there and met incredible friends that turned clients. 

What does success mean to you?
To me, success is feeling proud of the work I do and ending each day knowing I gave my best. Financial success is important for survival, but being proud of the life I’m creating for myself is always my top priority. 

Contact Info:

• Email: emily@skeelscreative.com
• Website: https://skeelscreative.com/
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/skeelscreative

Image Credits
Kaytlyn Perez Photography
Vilona Photography
Emily Brianne Photography