CAREER PROFILE : Shooting great videos is my job

Ahmed Mbaraka Ahmed is videographer and filmmaker. He is the owner of Amageneous Media Company.

Videography is his dream career and he started while in form four while working as an intern in one of the studios learning about video production. He also graduated with BA in Mass Communication at the Open University of Tanzania in 2014.

Here he shares his experience in this field with Success.

When were you born? Can you tell us about your background and family?

I was born in Dar es Salaam, first born in the family.

How did you get in filmmaking?

My family was nowhere near video shooting and filmmaking, my father is a businessman and my mother is a housewife. Getting into this field of filmmaking was more like a hobby so movie leads me into this journal.

When I finished O level education, I went to a video studio called Omni studio under Robert Kiata and they took me as an intern and they are the ones who introduced me to the world of production and from there I picked up and continued with the journey of self teaching. I’m still in love with film making until now.

How many years do you have in this field?

I started doing filming and production since I was in secondary school, I have like eight years of experience.

What challenges do you have in this field?

I guess like any other field where are always challenges. When it comes to filmmaking, you deal with electronic equipment and there is no guarantee on what might happen but I always find a way to get ready for any eventuality.

Clients are sometimes difficult in every perspective, for example, I had to edit a certain wedding like four times in order to meet their satisfaction.

Is there something that you are proud of about your job?

I’m proud of myself especially when I’m behind the camera. Most of the actions are behind the scenes. Operating camera is the most fun and enjoyable moment in my life, the passion of rhythm and even the feeling is amazing.

What are some task that you are responsible for as filmmaker and videographer?

As filmmaker, I have to multitask to ensure I have a good angle, good framing, good lighting and good sound. Editing and directing productions also fall under my docket.

Which film inspired you while growing up?

As I said, my inspiration was movies and my favourite was “The Matrix”.

What are the names of some films your are producing now?

I have been doing a lot of videos of various occasions like weddings and cooperate events as well as music. I’m currently working on my latest movie called “Dar Noir” which is going to be released early this year. I also play one of the characters in the movie and as a first time actor; I got a whole new experience, which was really interesting.

What advice would you give to students who want to take this career path?

My advice to artists is that they should be more creative and believe in themselves.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I love trying and learning new things everyday. I might produce more movies in ten years.

Our actions and who are we are the only things that determines and our limit.