Summer updates from Kogent Studios (and a favor to ask!)
Hey everyone,
What a year it's been so far! The summer has been building momentum with some truly exciting projects, and I've been absolutely loving every minute behind the camera. From expanding into new areas like real estate photography to collaborating with incredible local organizations and campaigns, Kogent Studios has been busier than ever. As we head toward the end of summer and into fall, I'm eager to connect with our community and keep my shoot calendar full with meaningful projects.
I wrote a little blog post to share some of my recent work with you, highlight projects that I’ve enjoyed, and seek your support as I grow this studio into a creative powerhouse.
Reflecting on the Work We've Created
First, I'm thrilled to share my 2025 reel and my refreshed website at kogentstudios.com. It's been amazing reflecting on the work we've created together over the past year.
Expanding Into Drone and Real Estate Photography
I've also been expanding into real estate photography! In June I finished my FAA drone pilot certification and upgraded my drone equipment to the DJI Mavic 2 Pro. This has opened up some incredible opportunities. You can check out some recent shoots at @kogentrealestate on Instagram.
Huge thanks to Christopher Seeman (Crooked River Media) for mentoring me in this new skill set and to Kim Oswald (Kim Loves Houses) for her ongoing support and entrusting her listings to me as I branch into this endeavor.
Recent Work I'm Proud Of
From podcasts to rooftop concerts, campaign fundraisers to speaker panels, I’ve done a little bit of everything this summer. Here’s a little look into what I’ve been capturing around town.
Young Latino Network’s Noche de Guayabera - Event Video
I was thrilled to be invited back to shoot for the Young Latino Network, this time for their Noche de Guayabera celebration. This group knows how to throw a party, and this stunning night was no exception. A true showcase of their communities work and impact in the Greater Cleveland Area. Here’s a recap video of my time there:
Davida Russell for Mayor of Cleveland Heights - Campaign Videos
I’ve been excited to connect with Cleveland Heights Councilperson, Davida Russell as she launches her campaign for her 2025 Mayoral Run. I’ve been thrilled to collaborate with her team to distill her message into a series of videos and capture her engaging with the community to connect with Heights residents.
Greyt Culture's Golden Hour Series
I’ve had a blast joining Thomas Fox’s Golden Hour series which features local experts in a Tech Talk followed by a concert featuring some of the areas best up and coming talent. From rooftops to lakeside venues, this series had been a highlight of my summer. Added bonus, I get to shoot along side the multitalented Korey Smerk!
Isley Brothers at Cain Park
Supporting Cain Park this summer for their larger concerts, I’ve been operating the cameras streaming live to the stage screens. It’s been a fun new avenue to use my camera skills while watching legends like 86 year old Ron Isley do his thing on stage. Such a fun night!
Building Freedom Ohio’s Podcast with Former Mayor Frank Jackson
Connecting with Fred Ward and his organization Building Freedom Ohio has truly been an inspiration. His work to support folks returning to our community from incarceration is having a profound impact. I’ve been thankful to be included as he develops more ways to tell the stories of these people and share more about how they engage in our community. This summer, I helped record a conversation between Fred and former Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
Here's Where I Could Use Your Help
I'm being completely honest here – I’ve had to adapt with the ever changing economy, even in these early years of starting my business. The majority of my clients over the past few years have been in the nonprofit sector. As many of you know, funding has been tight across nonprofits and community organizations with so many getting massive, unexpected funding cuts this year. While that's made things challenging for all, it's also reminded me how much I just love being behind the camera and telling stories.
With that in mind, I'm currently open to projects of all sizes and budgets. Whether it's non-profit storytelling, events, brand work, or just about anything that gets me creating – I'm grateful for the opportunity to work and help out however I can.
A Few Small Favors
If you know anyone who might need video work, I'd be incredibly grateful for an introduction – just shoot me a text at (216) 543-1616 or email at Michael@KogentStudios.com
If you're on LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube, I'd love to connect: @kogentstudios, LinkedIn, and YouTube
Keep me in mind for any upcoming projects, and please feel free to pass my name along in your communities
What About You?
I'd love to hear what you've been working on lately and where you might need support too. This community has always been about lifting each other up, and I'm here for whatever you might need as well.
Thanks for taking the time to read this, and for being such an important part of my network. Your support and friendship mean more than you know. Please reach out to connect via text or email!
Grateful as always,
Michael Kent | Kogent Studios
Michael@KogentStudios.com | (216) 543-1616
kogentstudios.com
