Meet Riley Smith | Founder & Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Riley Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Riley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My passion for videography was ignited at the age of 10 when I received a GoPro from a friend. The thrill of capturing moments on camera was intoxicating, leading me down a path of exploration and creativity. This early fascination grew into a specialized focus on post-production, where I found joy in transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary memories, immortalized through film.

In college, I majored in advertising at the University of Colorado Boulder, where the unique structure of the program exposed me to real-world industry experience. My professors, all current agency professionals, provided insights and lessons that extended beyond the classroom, instilling in me a deep understanding of the advertising landscape.

Upon graduating, I decided to pursue sales. This career choice resonated with my competitive spirit and desire for uncapped earning potential. However, after a year of living through the Covid-19 pandemic in Denver, I felt a strong pull to return home to the beach – and to my roots in creative media.

Back home, I met my business partner, Joey Duhon, a seasoned professional in the media industry specializing in luxury real estate. Joey helped rekindle my passion for videography and played a pivotal role in the creation of N8TV, our own media company.

I started N8TV because I wanted to do something that I was passionate about. Despite the challenges that each project may present, it never feels like work. We are always doing something different, whether it’s filming an event, filming a surgery, or capturing the essence of an individual. It’s the constant diversity and excitement that keeps the fire alive. However, what I truly love about my work is the connection it allows us to make with our clients. You get to see an individual’s raw passion for their creation. We dive deep to understand their vision and translate it into compelling visual narratives that represent their business the right way. Whether we’re portraying the personality of an individual, showcasing a business, or encapsulating a brand’s identity, our goal is always to create content that resonates and engages.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In an era where impressive videos aren’t so impressive anymore, it takes something truly special to capture attention. That’s why I pour my heart, style, and creativity into every project I undertake. My goal is not just to create interesting videos, it’s to craft unique visual narratives that leave a lasting impression.

We take pride in our hands-on approach. We believe that outsourcing dilutes the personal touch that defines our work. Every project we undertake is a reflection of us—our creativity, our dedication, and our commitment to excellence. This belief drives us to ensure that each piece of work we produce is the absolute best it can be.

This commitment to originality and quality shapes our identity. We strive for our work to be instantly recognizable, not just fitting the mold but breaking it to set new standards. We aim to create content that doesn’t just tell a story but tells it in a way that is uniquely ours.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Meat Market, Palm Beach: This is undoubtedly my favorite restaurant in the world. The Meat Market offers an incredible ambiance paired with an exquisite menu. Their selection of prime cuts of meat is truly divine, but they also serve top-notch seafood, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Jupiter: There’s something truly magical about Jupiter, Florida. The combination of friendly locals, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture make it a place like no other. The experience of being out on the boat here is simply incomparable. It’s a place where unhappiness seems impossible.

Club Space, Miami: Club Space is more than just a venue – it’s an experience. Words can hardly do justice to the atmosphere, the energy, and the overall vibe of Space. It’s something you have to experience firsthand to truly understand.

Spruzzo, West Palm Beach: Spruzzo is a rooftop bar offering a surreal experience that combines stunning views, great music, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind, socialize, and soak in the beauty of West Palm Beach.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Joey Duhon, my business partner at N8TV. His influence extends beyond just being a colleague, he is the main reason I ventured into this industry. Our working relationship is a perfect blend of skills, where he usually handles the shooting while I focus on post-production. We share a similar eye for creativity, which has allowed us to collaborate seamlessly and produce compelling content.

Walter Escarzaga, he has been an invaluable mentor. His mastery of technology, deal-making, and client relationships has helped me navigate the complexities of the industry. His guidance has not only enriched my professional skills but also taught me how to maintain balance and direction in my career.

Lastly, I owe a great deal to my father, who has been a constant pillar of support. Establishing my own company was a significant leap, one that I could not have taken without him. He instilled in me a unique perspective on life, which I carry with me every day. His teachings have shaped my approach to challenges and opportunities, for which I am eternally grateful.

Website: https://www.n8tv.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n_8_T_v/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riley-smith-9b21b5164/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmgteLV5scr5g0nZA6CTdgQ