Not Just A Videographer. A Ministry Partner.
I'm Garrett Black—lead pastor, professional videographer, and someone who genuinely understands the weight of ministry work. When you hire me, you're not getting a vendor. You're getting a partner who knows what it's like to stand in your shoes.
My Story
I didn't set out to be a pastor-videographer. I set out to serve Jesus and help people experience real transformation.
Along the way, I discovered that great video work isn't just about technical skill—it's about understanding what matters. When you're filming a baptism, you need to know why that moment is sacred. When you're capturing a worship night, you need to feel the weight of what's happening spiritually, not just visually.
That's what separates me from every other videographer you could hire. I'm not learning ministry culture as I go—I live it every single day.
As the lead pastor of Axess Church in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, I preach every Sunday, lead a team, cast vision, navigate budget constraints, deal with volunteers, and pray desperately that God shows up. I know what it's like to pour your heart into a message and wonder if anyone's listening. I understand the pressure of ministry. I get the frustration of trying to communicate your vision when words fall short.
That's why I picked up a camera.
Because sometimes the story you need to tell requires more than a Sunday morning announcement. Sometimes you need video that actually captures the heart of what God is doing in your ministry. And I'm uniquely positioned to help you tell that story—because I'm telling the same story in my own church.
Credentials That Matter
I'm not just a pastor who picked up a camera as a hobby. I'm formally trained in theology and have lots of creative production experience, which means you get someone who understands ministry depth and cinematic excellence.
Master of Theological Studies
Rigorous theological training in biblical studies, pastoral ministry, and practical theology. I didn't just attend seminary—I learned how to think theologically about everything, including how we communicate the gospel through modern media.
Ministry Certificate
Focused training in Spirit-led ministry, prophetic culture, and experiencing God's presence. This shaped my understanding that the best ministry moments aren't scripted—they're encountered. My job as a videographer is to capture what God is already doing.
10+ Years Video Production
Over a decade of hands-on experience producing videos for churches, Christian non-profits, conferences, and live events. I've filmed everything from intimate baptisms to multi-camera conference productions. 100+ videos produced, 50+ events filmed.
Lead Pastor
Currently serving as the lead pastor of a growing church plant. I preach weekly, lead staff, manage budgets, develop leaders, and navigate the beautiful chaos of ministry. This isn't theory for me—it's my everyday reality.
Why This Combination Matters
Most videographers will give you technically good work. But when you hire a pastor-videographer, you get something different entirely.
I Know What to Capture
I instinctively know which moments matter. When someone's face changes during worship, when a testimony lands, when the Spirit moves—I see it because I've experienced it myself.
I Speak Your Language
No need to explain church culture, volunteer dynamics, or why that particular prayer moment was significant. I get it immediately because I live in that world every day.
I'm For Your Mission
This isn't just business—it's Kingdom work. When I help your ministry tell its story better, I'm advancing the same mission I'm advancing in my own church. We're on the same team.
How I Work
Excellence Honors God
I don't believe in "good enough for church." If we're telling stories about the most important thing in the universe—the gospel—then our work should reflect that significance. I bring professional-grade production to every project because excellence honors God and serves your mission well.
Ministry Supporting Ministry
When you hire me, you're not enriching some corporate video agency. You're supporting a fellow pastor and helping fund the ministry work happening at Axess Church. Your investment has Kingdom impact beyond just the video you receive.
Collaborative, Not Transactional
I don't just show up, film, and disappear. I ask questions. I listen. I want to understand your vision, your challenges, and what success looks like for you. The best videos come from true partnership, not vendor relationships.
Stewardship Over Sales
I'll never upsell you on services you don't need. Ministry budgets are tight—I know because I manage one. I'll help you get the most impact for your investment and be honest about what will actually move the needle for your organization.
Let's Work Together
If you're looking for someone who understands both the craft of videography and the heart of ministry, let's talk. I'd love to hear about what God is doing in your church or organization and explore how we can tell that story together.
Schedule A Conversation