Today we’d like to introduce you to Lenny Frieson.
Hi Lenny, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey in photography and videography after graduating from Towson University with a degree in Electronic Media and Film. From the start, I had a natural drive to pick up my camera and explore any space where I was welcomed. Like many recent graduates, I wasn’t entirely sure what direction I wanted to take with my skills, so I took a leap of faith and explored a wide range of creative opportunities—essentially throwing everything at the wall to see what would stick.
That approach turned out to be a blessing. I found joy and fulfillment in every experience, whether I was shooting events, weddings, portraits, sports, film sets, working with local businesses, or even capturing moments in government spaces.
Much of my growth and success is thanks to the mentorship of Yaseen Jones of Shinee Studios LLC, along with the unwavering support of my family, friends, and loved ones.
Fast forward a few years, I’ve built a successful freelance media business called BigLen Cinema, while also working as a content creator on YouTube and serving full-time as a video producer at UMBC’s Department of Information Technology in their New Media Studio. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited for what’s to come.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest driving forces behind pushing myself so hard to create opportunities with my skills was the financial reality of graduating college with debt. I knew I had to find a way to turn my passion into something sustainable. I’m proud to say that through consistent hard work—and by the grace of God—I was able to reach a point where I could manage and overcome those financial struggles relatively early on.
Another ongoing challenge has been balancing everything I’m involved in. Between being part of the YouTube creator community, working with multiple studios across the DMV area on a contract basis, holding a full-time position at UMBC, and running my own full-service media business, it’s a lot to juggle. But thanks to dedication, time management, and the strong network of relationships I’ve built, I’ve been able to meet those challenges head-on and continue to grow.”
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in both candid and professionally posed photography and videography, offering a wide range of media services for events, businesses, and personal milestones throughout Baltimore, D.C., and the broader DMV area. My work spans from weddings and portraits to corporate content, sports coverage, and creative storytelling.
I’m especially proud of the work I’ve done for my wedding clients—being trusted to capture one of the most meaningful days of their lives is something I don’t take lightly. I also take great pride in covering high school, college, and professional sports here in Maryland—those moments are raw, fast-paced, and full of emotion, and I love the challenge of preserving them in a powerful way.
What truly sets me apart is my genuine excitement for every opportunity that comes my way. Whether it’s a large-scale production or a simple portrait session, I bring the same level of energy and commitment. I want every client to feel confident and inspired from the moment we connect—not asking ‘Do you do this or that?’ but instead saying, ‘When can we get started?’ Because my answer is always, ‘Yes—let’s make it happen.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I loved about the city of Baltimore from the perspective of a creative is the amount of uncovered gems and beautiful locations in Baltimore to take great images. As for what I like least about the city is the portrayal of the city from people whoever never experienced the “charm” in Charm City. Of course like any city it has it’s problems, but there so much good done in the city it should absolutely be recognized.
Pricing:
- Basic Photoshoots Starting at $150
- Graduation Shoots Vary
- Wedding Services Vary
- Video Editing Services Starting at $200
- Event Coverage Starting at $200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://biglencinema.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biglen_cinema/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonard-frieson-iii/
- Other: https://www.weddingwire.com/biz/biglen-cinema/38f4823e56a40d0c.html
