Conversations with Benton Palermo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Benton Palermo.

Hi Benton, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I got started with video production and photography halfway through college. I stumbled upon what I am so passionate about now. At this point, I was going through school with little purpose. Then, a Professor mentioned a student photography position open at the University. So I figured, why not apply? At this time, I had never used a DSLR or professional camera before, which excited me. I became laser-focused on learning and improving. While most of my friends were partying, I was covering an event, concert or editing photos for a story for the next day. This later transformed into video production. I graduated from Slippery Rock University, where I studied Digital Media Production. After college, I started building my film and video portfolio in Pittsburgh. I was involved with the local creative community, helping curate content for the Instagram page @PGH.Creative. We hosted networking and photoshoot events. I connected with the local music scene and quickly realized this was where I wanted to focus my work. I could be found at a local show multiple nights a week, regardless of genre.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My road has been far from smooth. After graduating college, I was not getting hired anywhere for the positions I wanted. So I worked as a Graphic Artist while developing my video production freelance work. As I grew my portfolio, I left that job to pursue video production full-time. The funny thing is that many companies that did not hire me post-college later called me regularly for freelance work. A no now might mean something greater is ahead. When the pandemic hit, it halted many industries. The film & video industry was one of them. In the blink of an eye, I could no longer film to generate income. I went from losing my sources of income to working with incredible people. Adapting to the circumstances, I focused primarily on video editing and animating graphics. This leads me to edit for John Malecki’s YouTube Channel, Burgh Brothers Media, and Property Vids.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I can be a one-person band with video production if I need to. I specialize in Editing, camera operating, and storytelling. I am known for my determination and attention to detail; I am proud of the camera operating on the Allegheny County Summer Concert Series. We filmed with artists like Sierra Sellers, Michael Glabicki, Brooke Annibale, The Clarks, and over a dozen more. My drive sets me apart from others. When I do something, I give it my all. If I don’t know how to do it, I get excited about the challenge of figuring it out.

What changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see the industry continuing to grow. From streaming shows with movie-length episodes or short-form content on Instagram Reels. So many avenues to pursue, with video and video content ruling most platforms. There are fewer barriers to entry for consumers to get into film and video. More people might find the same joy I have behind a camera and decide to make a career with it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bentonpalermo.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/benton.mp4?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Image Credits
1. Amanda Tallon 2. Ian Jones 3. N/A 4.Kait Murtaugh 5. Cody Dulski 6. Cody Dulski