Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Goodman.
Matthew, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always been an artsy guy. From a young age, I was always drawing and finding whatever creative outlet I could. As I got older, I realized that I could turn my passion for the arts into a career, and so I did.
I have always loved taking photos and began to really fall in love with it when I was in high school. It wasn’t until I started classes at the local community college where I knew it was something I always wanted to do. I took a black and white film class and was instantly hooked. My friend and I used to go out and photograph landscapes and just have fun with our cameras. It became a regular thing and was often how we spent our free time.
When I transferred to Columbia College Chicago I decided to move forward with a BFA in Graphic Design. instead of Photography. I loved the feeling of creating and at the time felt it was a better choice for me. I continued photography on the side and was able to incorporate my own photography into my design projects. It was a little tough to balance school, work and photography in the beginning but was easily adaptable in the end.
After I graduated I started working for Sears and Kmart, working with the strategic initiatives team and designing in-store signage. I have been there for three years and love what I do. It has allowed me to take on more photography sessions on the weekends which creates a nice balance between both design and photo.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I have to say that one of the toughest aspects of getting to where I am now was the balance. While attending school full-time I was also commuting from the suburbs, somehow managing to keep three jobs and still be able to provide my photos services. This is how I learned that real passion comes from within and you can make it work if you really try.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Geer Creative is the freelance name that I go by. Since I work full-time already I use this as an opportunity to do extra freelance work in both design and photography. I do a lot of design, whether it is a full branding package to even the simplest of tasks like invitations.
I like to present a concept PDF to each client, providing them with different options and routes they could take. I feel this helps get the client more involved and makes them feel they can express what they want and whether or not we are heading in the right direction for them.
Having an opinion on work being done is very important to me, and I love when my photo clients do the same. I don’t just like to take photos, I like to create them. I will often ask my clients to come with ideas, whether they are poses, props, inspiration or themes because it makes it THEIR session.
Ultimately, I feel they will be much more satisfied when they have input in the final product, and I think this works in both design and photography. I like to believe this is what helps separate me from the rest. I would much rather work with a client than to work for them.
If I was on the other end I would feel much more comfortable with someone who allowed me to vocalize my idea. With me, you are not getting some generated work that was done in 20 minutes. I will take the time to understand what it is you need and visually create what you see in your head.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I have always been into the arts. I was always finding a creative outlet to express myself. I was always a carefree individual and think that helps when working with my clients. I’m pretty shy but open up once I get to know people. I have always valued friendship and will help others out when they need me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.geercreative.com
- Email: geercreative@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geercreative/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geercreative/
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