Shawn Mohammed
The Community Camera Genius
Born in San Juan, Trinidad, Shawn Mohammed, age-40, who resides in Miramar, is a man who has loved being behind the camera for several years, and today, he is an ambitious cinematographer.
Shawn took a gamble on himself and decided to launch his own career which he says was “a very memorable and life changing moment. I haven’t looked back since I made that decision.” As far as achievements are concerned, Shawn has made a few in cinematography. “I do very little marketing and it’s impressive that word of mouth is how I get most of my clients. This proves that my work is appreciated and highly recommended. I consider this a huge achievement.”
He cites one of his more memorable moments is having met CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta at a wedding at which he was the cinematographer. “that was pretty great in terms of memorable moments.”
“I started my career in the video production space in 1995, where I started at the Polytechnic Institute and pursued videography work simultaneously. I started my videography career with Stephen Lee Pow and Associates, as an intern for two years. In 1997, I was offered a job at CCN TV 6, as a junior editor. I was quickly promoted in 2000 to chief editor and lead videographer. In 2003, I started freelancing doing wedding videography and events, starting on my own in 2007.”
“Don’t give up. There will be ups and downs, but keep working hard and surround yourself with positive influences. Do it for the passion, not the money.” is the advice he offers to the youth who wants to also create a name for themselves in this field.
Shawn see’s this outstanding art as an ace for him in the community. “I am someone that members of the community come to for their special events, since I am a trusted resource. I would like to work even more with the community and even make it back home to Trinidad more often for cinematography work.”
Just as any Caribbean-American should be, Shawn says “I have the best of both worlds. I am a proud Trini and happy to be able to bring my culture and heritage to South Florida, which I have fallen in love with. South Florida is where I grew my career and started my beautiful family. I am happy to incorporate my heritage and my passion in what I do.”
