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

Hi DeMarco, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My personal thoughts on starting my own business was purely leaving a legacy behind for my children. I want them to have something they could always fall back on to make passive income off of as well as help them keep their creativity alive and vibrant.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey into becoming a musical artist, photography and videography was deeply inspired by my late brother’s passion for music. Through music, I learned to see the world differently, cherishing the small, beautiful moments that make life special.

What sets Ofiftyvisualz apart is not just technical skill, but a genuine passion for storytelling. Each project I undertake is a unique narrative, a chance to capture the essence of the moment and convey emotions that words often can’t. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, a music video, or a personal photoshoot, I strive to provide visuals that resonate deeply with my clients.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. Life threw significant challenges my way, but each obstacle only strengthened my resolve. I learned the importance of resilience, creativity, and finding purpose in every situation. These experiences have shaped my approach to my craft, allowing me to connect with clients on a deeper level and understand their visions profoundly.

One of the proudest moments in my career was the first time a client told me that my work brought their story to life in a way they never thought possible. Moments like these fuel my passion and remind me why I do what I do.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable: stay true to your vision, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and always strive for excellence. My brand, Ofiftyvisualz, embodies these principles. I want the world to know that behind every project is a dedication to quality, affordability, and heartfelt storytelling.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well I’d have to say it would go like this;

Day 1: Downtown Cincinnati

• Morning: Start with breakfast at Maplewood Kitchen and Bar for their delicious avocado toast and fresh juices.
• Midday: Explore the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to learn about the history and legacy of the Underground Railroad.
• Lunch: Head to Taft’s Ale House, a brewery located in a renovated historic church, for some hearty pub food and craft beer.
• Afternoon: Walk along the Smale Riverfront Park and enjoy the views of the Ohio River.
• Dinner: Dine at Sotto, an Italian restaurant known for its rustic dishes and cozy ambiance.
• Evening: Enjoy a drink at 16-Bit Bar+Arcade, a bar with a wide selection of classic arcade games.

Day 2: Over-the-Rhine

• Morning: Have breakfast at Taste of Belgium for their famous waffles.
• Midday: Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum which offers a diverse collection of artworks and free admission.
• Lunch: Try Salazar, a farm-to-table restaurant with creative dishes.
• Afternoon: Explore Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Eagle, known for its fried chicken and Southern-inspired comfort food.
• Evening: Catch a show at Cincinnati Music Hall, a stunning historic venue.

Day 3: Mt. Adams and Eden Park

• Morning: Breakfast at Bow Tie Cafe in Mt. Adams for a relaxed start.
• Midday: Visit the Cincinnati Observatory and learn about its history and celestial observations.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at The Rookwood, a unique restaurant in a former pottery factory with beautiful views.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Eden Park and visit the Krohn Conservatory to see exotic plants and butterflies.
• Dinner: Have dinner at Primavista, an Italian restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Relax with a drink at Mt. Adams Bar & Grill, a historic pub with a cozy atmosphere.

Day 4: Northern Cincinnati

• Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Sleepy Bee Cafe in Blue Ash.
• Midday: Visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, one of the oldest and best zoos in the country.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at the zoo’s Base Camp Cafe.
• Afternoon: Explore Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, a beautiful and historic cemetery.
• Dinner: Head to Madtree Brewing for dinner and try their wood-fired pizzas and craft beers.
• Evening: Enjoy live music or a casual hangout at Northside Tavern.

Day 5: Cultural and Sports Day

• Morning: Breakfast at First Watch for a classic American breakfast.
• Midday: Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, which houses multiple museums in one location.
• Lunch: Have lunch at Camp Washington Chili, a local favorite for Cincinnati-style chili.
• Afternoon: Tour the American Sign Museum, a unique museum dedicated to the history of signage.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Moerlein Lager House, located by the river with great views and a variety of beers.
• Evening: Attend a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at the Great American Ball Park.

Day 6: Newport and Covington (across the river in Kentucky)

• Morning: Breakfast at Anchor Grill in Covington for a taste of local diner fare.
• Midday: Visit Newport Aquarium to see a variety of marine life.
• Lunch: Have lunch at Hofbräuhaus Newport, a German-style brewery with hearty food.
• Afternoon: Walk across the Newport Southbank Bridge (Purple People Bridge) for great views of the city.
• Dinner: Dine at Otto’s in Covington for a delicious meal with Southern flair.
• Evening: Enjoy a nightcap at Cock and Bull Public House in Covington.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect

• Morning: Breakfast at French Crust Cafe and Bistro for a Parisian-style start to the day.
• Midday: Spend a relaxing day at Ault Park, enjoying the gardens and scenic views.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a light lunch from Mazunte Taqueria.
• Afternoon: Visit Rookwood Commons & Pavilion for some shopping.
• Dinner: Have a farewell dinner at Boca, a fine dining restaurant with an exquisite menu.
• Evening: End the trip with a drink at The Blind Lemon, a cozy bar with a charming courtyard.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give credit and acknowledgement to my loving wife Tiara. My deceased grandfather Rondell H. jones for guiding raising me as his own flesh and blood son even though we are not related. And lastly my grandmother Shirley McKinney Jones for taking me and my two surviving sibling in and raising us after our mother died when I was 17 days old.

Website: https://Ofiftyvisualz.square.site

Instagram: @Ofiftyvisualz

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ofiftyvisualz?si=7vciPI9VpT5mOntl

Other: Artist instagram: @_ofifty_
Artist YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCKVe1FWFHsTS3sv2jF1alUQ?si=XL1fbNLIg4MQ3xfK
Other Artist YouTube page: https://youtube.com/@ofiftytv?si=d7g76Q4OranokaXy

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.