We recently had the chance to connect with Shane Hite and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shane, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
I feel like I am always chasing perfection, and honestly, that pursuit is what keeps me driven. If I were to stop, I think I’d lose the desire to grow, and growth is such a core part of who I am. To stop striving for the best version of myself and my work would feel like a disservice to both my craft and the person I’ve become.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Originally from Southern California and now based in Nashville, TN, my passion for film and production began early. Following in the footsteps of my father and grandfather, I entered the studio industry right out of high school, working with props and ensuring every scene was camera ready. I spent my days beside the director’s monitors, making decisions between takes and gaining a deep understanding of the production process.
In 2016, I purchased my first camera and dove headfirst into learning everything I could about photography and cinematography. What started with stills quickly evolved into a love for motion, blending my technical background with creative storytelling. My first opportunity to capture a wedding, both photo and video, sparked a new level of passion for documenting high stakes and emotionally rich moments.
Today, I specialize in weddings, music videos, and lifestyle portraiture, dedicating my work to capturing genuine stories with depth, care, and creativity.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I think both of my parents played large roles in shaping me to become who I am today. They saw the fast learning when I would be tested with little things as far as helping with projects or chores I had growing up. One of my favorite childhood memories was being able to go on set with my dad and feeling proud to be next to him in front of his coworkers. I grew up with that studio atmosphere and genuinely feel that I was made to do what I do now. I know how hard my dad worked and being able to learn from him and see the teamwork that my parents built while working together was a crucial part of my development. Family is incredibly important to me and that was instilled in me at a young age by the love and support I was shown. They are my biggest cheerleaders to this day with my business and the accomplishments I make along the way.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
I’ve come to believe that even in challenging situations, things have a way of working out. I focus on turning negatives into positives, and that mindset has shaped how I approach both life and work. Rather than stepping into situations with stress or doubt, I’ve worked hard to lead with confidence and I continue to grow through that shift in perspective.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
The version of me that people see is definitely authentic! I’ve never known how to be anyone else. I wear my heart on my sleeve and tend to see the glass as half full. I bring a calm and grounding presence that helps others feel at ease, but once I’m comfortable, my fun and outgoing side shines through. I naturally feed off the energy around me and always aim to be a positive, uplifting presence in any space I’m in. I think that is why I thrive in the business I am in. It for sure takes skill, but the most important thing is connecting with clients.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
In this business, I think many creatives would agree that praise is appreciated, but it’s not what sustains us. I’m always grateful for the kind words, reviews, and conversations that come from my work, but I’ve realized those moments are often short lived. A wedding day is fast paced and comes with high pressure, where we capture fleeting moments through photography and videography. Then, for weeks/months afterward, we edit in solitude, shaping those memories into something timeless for our clients. When we deliver the final product, there’s usually a final thank you or message of appreciation, but then we move on. Deadlines pile up, and it’s easy to brush off the praise and jump into the next project without really taking it in. That’s something I’m actively working on. Taking time and reminding myself to pause, be proud, and acknowledge the impact I make.
At the end of the day, I do this work not for the brief compliments, but for a deeper purpose. The creativity, the human connection, and the privilege of telling a couple’s love story. That’s what drives me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.captive-visuals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captivevisualsproductions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY0tLHpRoIpJb5YXrsDiwUQ
