Meet Cole Carpenter | Videographer and Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cole Carpenter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cole, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The hardest decision I ever had was to go full-time with content creation. I’d been doing it freelance for several years and working full-time doing the same type of work, but early in 2023, I had to decide if I would take the plunge, and it honestly was the best decision I ever made!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work as a visual artist and filmmaker is all about storytelling—capturing detail, color, and emotion in a way that feels immersive and cinematic. From the start, I’ve built my brand around a distinct visual style, but what also sets me apart is the experience I create for my clients. I focus on making the process smooth, enjoyable, and delivering more than expected.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. I’ve tried going full-time a few times and fell on my face, but I’ve learned that the more I want something, the harder I work for it. This industry gives back what you put into it. I’ve always said that sometimes you have to do some stuff you don’t want to so you can eventually do stuff you REALLY want to!

I wouldn’t be where I am without the people who supported me along the way. A few that come to mind are Teresa Perretta who threw my name out to any client she had that needed creative work, and Anan Deek from Xtreme Autosports, who opened the door for me in the automotive industry, which now makes up about 75% of my work.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that relationships matter. Trust and collaboration have led to some of my best opportunities. I’m always looking to grow—pushing my skills, refining my style, and making sure that Cole Carpenter Visual Arts isn’t just about making videos but about creating impactful visuals and a great client experience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting, I’d make sure they got the full Dayton experience—great food, outdoor adventure, and good drinks, while also shouting out some of my amazing clients.

We’d kick things off with a Koji Burger lunch and coffee from Press, then check out Omega Music for records and explore Front Street Art District. Dinner would be at Jollity, one of my clients, followed by a late-night stop at Silver Slipper.

We’d take the Tacoma for an off-roading trip at Haspin Acres or a scenic backroad drive, then stop at Culture for some of the best food around from Chef Dane.

For a more laid-back day, we’d grab a cold brew from Ghostlight Coffee, then head up to Troy for drinks at Crafted & Cured. Before wrapping up the trip, we’d visit Joui Wine, another one of my clients, for an incredible selection of natural wines and a great atmosphere. The final stop would be Slyder’s Tavern, a Dayton staple, for a solid meal.

This would be the perfect mix of everything I love—great eats, adventure, and supporting local businesses, including some of my amazing clients.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Success is never achieved alone, and I owe a lot to the people who have supported, mentored, and shaped me into who I am today. First and foremost, I want to recognize my clients—without them, I wouldn’t be able to do what I love every day. Their trust in my work fuels my creativity and pushes me to continue growing as a visual artist.

I also want to give a huge shoutout to my wife, Brittany (Desert Roots). Not only is she my biggest supporter, but as a fellow local business owner, she constantly pushes me to be better. Seeing her dedication and ambition firsthand motivates me to work harder, refine my craft, and continue building something meaningful. Having someone who truly understands the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship makes all the difference.

My parents have also played a crucial role in my success. They instilled in me a strong work ethic, and my dad, in particular, showed me firsthand what it takes to run a business. His example has been a guiding force in how I approach my own career and entrepreneurial journey.

Lastly, I want to recognize Caleb Morris, who taught me everything I know about videography. His mentorship gave me the foundation I needed to turn my passion into a profession, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance.

I’m incredibly grateful for all of these people who have helped shape my path, and I know that any success I achieve is a reflection of the support and wisdom they’ve shared with me.

Website: https://www.colecarpentervisualart.com

Instagram: @colecarpenter

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CCVA-media