Inspiring Conversations with Emanuel Craig of F.I.N.O (Failure Is No Option) FIlmz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emanuel Craig

Hi Emanuel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up playing sports and was very active both in and outside of the classroom, consistently making the honor roll while excelling in basketball, baseball, football, and soccer. I had dreams of playing college basketball and was on track to achieve that goal until a serious shoulder dislocation during my senior night ended my season and dashed my college hopes. I had received three basketball offers before my injury, and losing those opportunities plunged me into a deep depression.

During this challenging time, I discovered a new passion: photography and videography. My senior year, I joined the yearbook club, where I began to explore my love for capturing moments at various events and celebrations. With a camera donated to me by a friend, I started my college journey at North Carolina Central University as a first-generation college student. I made the bold decision to turn down a full-ride academic scholarship from my hometown college in Charlotte, North Carolina, to pursue my education at NCCU, where I felt I could grow and thrive.

Since then, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to meet celebrities like Muni Long, Rob49, Emmanuel Hudson, and Dr. Jill Biden. I even captured images of President Joe Biden during a rally in Raleigh, North Carolina. Inspired by my experiences, I founded F.I.N.O Filmz, which stands for “Failure Is No Option,” under my LLC, F.I.N.O Enterprises. The motivation behind starting my company came from the passing of my grandfather during the COVID pandemic. After he passed, I realized I didn’t have many photos or videos to cherish the memories I had with him, and I wanted to ensure that others wouldn’t experience that loss.

With the support of my family, I’ve been able to carry on my grandfather’s story and build a company that provides clients with an environment where they can enjoy and remember their special moments. My journey has been shaped by resilience, and I’m committed to making sure that every moment captured is a memory that lasts forever.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has certainly not been smooth; it has been filled with challenges that have shaped who I am today. One of those challenges were growing up with a single father, by doing so it formed me to mature earlier than most. Another one of the most significant struggles I faced was the injury I suffered during my senior night of basketball. The dislocation of my shoulder, along with the nerve damage, not only ended my season but also dashed my dreams of playing college basketball. That loss left me in a deep depression, feeling lost and uncertain about my future.

Transitioning from sports to a new passion for photography and videography was another hurdle. It took time for me to find my footing and develop my skills in a completely different field. I had to overcome self-doubt and learn to express myself creatively in a way that was new to me. Which was once hands of an athlete became the hands of a film creator.

Starting my company, F.I.N.O Filmz, came with its own set of challenges, including navigating the business world, securing funding for equipment, and establishing a client base. There were times when I questioned whether I could make it work, especially being a first-generation college student without a clear roadmap.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
F.I.N.O Filmz is my media company dedicated to capturing and preserving special moments for individuals and families. The name, which stands for “Failure Is No Option,” reflects my commitment to resilience and excellence in every project I undertake. At F.I.N.O Filmz, we specialize in photography and videography services for a variety of occasions, including events, celebrations, and personal milestones. Our goal is to create high-quality visual memories that clients can cherish for years to come. Whether it’s a wedding, graduation, birthday party, or a family gathering, we aim to document those moments in a way that tells a story and evokes emotion. What sets F.I.N.O Filmz apart from others is our focus on building genuine connections with our clients. I believe that understanding the unique stories and personalities of those we work with allows us to create more meaningful and impactful visual content. Additionally, my personal journey—from overcoming adversity to pursuing my passion—infuses my work with authenticity and a strong emotional connection.
One of the things I am most proud of is the positive feedback we receive from clients who appreciate our ability to capture the essence of their special moments. I take pride in providing an enjoyable experience, from the initial consultation to the final delivery of photos and videos. I aim to create an environment where clients feel comfortable and valued, ensuring that their stories are told in a way that resonates with them. I want readers to know that F.I.N.O Filmz is not just about taking pictures or filming videos; it’s about cherishing memories and celebrating life’s milestones. We offer a range of services, including event coverage, portrait sessions, and promotional content for businesses. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction drives us to continually improve and innovate in our craft. Ultimately, F.I.N.O Filmz is about creating lasting memories that people can hold onto, and I’m dedicated to helping others capture the moments that matter most in their lives.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory would definitely be waking up on Sunday mornings with my grandfather and riding to church together. He was the head of the usher board at Greater Gethsemane A.M.E. Zion Baptist Church back home in Charlotte, North Carolina. We would wake up early and arrive at the church about an hour and a half before the service started to set everything up nicely, just as ushers do. Those mornings were filled with a sense of purpose and connection, as we worked together to create a welcoming environment for our church community. It was a special time that not only deepened my bond with my grandfather but also instilled in me values of service and dedication that I carry with me to this day.

Pricing:

• Headshot Services Begins at $60
• Video Footage Begins at $120
• Studio Photoshoots Begins at $100
• Graduation Photoshoots Begins at $100

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finofilmz/