Andrew Canavos didn’t know that his hobby would turn into a viable career that would benefit him financially as well as personally. He began his media career as a photographer and videographer for local athletes in his home town of Virginia, and he used his skills in film to help high school basketball players impress college recruiters. The one decision to work with up-and-coming professional athletes led him to take on bigger opportunities like working with the current director of SLAM HS Video, Bryan LaRussa. “When I first started I had no idea I would be a top shooter in the sports media world getting hired by companies like Ballislife and SLAM Magazine. I really just started out of pure enjoyment for basketball and helping out athletes in getting more exposure.”
After gaining the privilege of working with a big name in the sports world, you would think Canavos would feel successful, but he claims that he didn’t feel accomplished until he began to travel nationally. “I think the first time I realized I was becoming successful in the industry was when I would go to national events, whether high school, college, or pro and be recognized for my work. Then, when I shot for the national brand Ballislife, that’s when I really started to get some traction nationally.
Now, Canavos feels that his extensive background and experience has gained him credibility in the industry, and he has the privilege to work with many influential names in the sports world. He says that his experience has gained him a renewed sense of confidence that was once absent from his life and getting over the need to be liked by everyone has given him the edge that he needs to stand out from other professionals. “In an industry where it’s all about approval for a while I used to try and just do the “standard”, but I soon realized I had to be different which in the end has helped me become a bigger figure in the media world.”
How Canavos Fights The Burnout
Even media professionals can experience a period of stress and anxiety when it comes to, well, media! Living in a society that has a constant and ever-changing rotation of information, entertainment, and news, can be stressful, and when your work and pleasure blend into one, it can be difficult to unplug. But Canavos says that it’s important to periodically remove yourself from the constant noise and focus on those around you! He also states that getting a good amount of rest is key to unwinding and recalibrating after a hard day. “Honestly, stepping away from any social media platforms when I am in important social settings and important moments of life. It’s not smart to just be buried in your phone during life. Spending time with friends whether it’s a weekend away from where you are from or just enjoying the day. It’s important to be around people who make you happy and enjoy you for you. Also, getting the right hours of sleep. Super simple, but so key.”
Just Do It!
Andrew Canavos has undergone a series of challenges and life lessons in his journey to success, and he has reached new heights of his career that he never dreamed would be possible. He was fortunate enough to turn his passion and hobby into a full-fledged career and he wants everyone to know that anything is possible, but you have to first dare to try! “Just go after it, whether you are making money or seeing results number wise. This type of stuff takes time and you really never have a clear path of the end, so do not get discouraged.”
For more information on Andrew Canavos, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, or send him a friendly email at [email protected].