We’re looking forward to introducing you to Anthony Sims II. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Anthony, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been active, taking little adventures, some with friends, but mostly just me. Whether taking walks, journaling, going out to eat, or catching up with people I care about, I lean towards activities that keep my body moving and my mind grounded. Self-care has been the primary focus for me this year. A great example of why that balance is crucial came from photographing my first May wedding in Houston last year. If you know anything about Houston in May, it’s hot! I remember feeling anxiety that day, and the sun shining was intense. I worked with a large group of over 50 people, directing and filming in a tight timeframe. It could’ve been chaotic, but thanks to my prep work, the team had a shot list prepared, and my assistant was on hand. Together, we were able to capture some incredible moments. I spent the next couple of weeks organizing hundreds of photos, editing hours of raw footage, and assembling it all into a cohesive visual story. Post-production is one of my favorite parts of the creative process. It’s meditative and fun to work on. I’ll grab a snack, sit with the footage frame by frame, and lose myself in the storytelling. But it’s also a reminder of how mentally consuming my work can be. It takes long hours, deep focus, and emotional energy. It’s not easy, but taking care of myself outside of work has become non-negotiable. I’ve learned that the best versions of me as a person and a professional show up when I’m resting, eating, and can take time getting centered. These days, joy looks like playing instruments, writing, taking deep breaths, and letting myself be present without a list of things to do. Earlier this year, I almost fell into the workaholic trap, and now I’m choosing to reconnect with fun, simplicity, and prioritize my health. Whoever said that health is wealth was truly onto something special.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a proud business owner based in Houston, Texas, and the creative force behind Main Frame Photographs. Our guiding motto is: “One frame at a time, Main Frame Photographs captures the essential moments in life.” We excel in photography, videography, video editing, and film color grading, designed to transform life stories into stunning digital products. Trust us to record your most cherished memories with artistry and professionalism.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
One of my earliest memories of feeling powerful was the day I decided to teach myself how to write better. It might sound small, even silly, but it was a defining moment. Growing up, left-handed handwriting was a constant struggle. It was a tough time trying to write in straight lines, spacing my letters properly, or fitting words neatly between the lines on a page. No matter how many times I tried or how many times teachers pointed it out. It never seemed to click. Years ago, when iPads and laptops weren’t readily available in classrooms. Typing wasn’t an option yet, and I knew handwritten assignments were a big part of school. On my first day at a new school, while waiting for my schedule outside the principal’s office, I took out a new notebook my parents had just bought me. I started writing my name over and over nearly 80 times, experimenting with the shape, spacing, and size of each letter. And then suddenly, something clicked. My hand formed my name in a way I had never written. It looked right. Exactly the version I had always imagined in my head, but could never get onto paper. I felt this wave of pride and confidence rush over me. In that moment, it wasn’t about anyone else’s approval. It was the first time I wrote because I wanted to, not because I had to. I didn’t stop there. I flipped the page and started practicing my signature, visualizing myself signing autographs or marking my work with intention and identity. That day, I learned what self-empowerment meant: not waiting to be taught but choosing to learn. Feeling pride in my progress is something I’ve chased ever since, both in life and in business.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
I miss the places I’ve lived, specifically the little hidden spots I discovered from exploring outside so much. Each time I’ve moved, it felt like I left a version of myself behind. There’s something bittersweet about having memories closely tied to the landscapes around you. I think about the house I lived in back in Georgia. At the time, I was the youngest in my family, and life felt wide open. I had this curious freedom to roam and ride my bike through winding streets, hike along forest trails, skate down grassy hills, then brush the red clay off my pants before going back inside. It’s funny now, and I still laugh at how bold and carefree I was then, popping wheelies, swinging from thick tree branches, soaking in the joy of being outside. I miss that version of me. That space, that sense of discovery. It wasn’t just about where I lived but how alive I felt in those moments. It’s not something I talk about often, but now and then, those memories come back and I’m reminded of how much joy can come from just being present in your environment and allowing yourself to play.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. What you see is what you get with me for the most part. I’m just as carefree, playful, and expressive in public as in my everyday life. I may not reveal all my layers at once, but everything I share comes from a real place. I wear my emotions on my face, and allow my thoughts to flow out before I’ve filtered through them. That might catch people off guard, but I think there’s power in being authentic. I’ve always believed that the “real me” is a blend of everyone I’ve ever met and everyone who’s had the chance to experience me. I don’t consider myself complicated. I’m emotionally fluid, open to joy, and unafraid to show up as I am, even when I’m not at my best. There’s a time and place for everything: a time to work, a time to play, a time to reflect, and a time to relax. I make space for all of it, and try to bring that same energy wherever I go. When I’m present, I want people to feel that presence. I want to leave an impression behind, whether it’s a kind interaction, a heartfelt memory, or just a good laugh. So yes, the public version of me is real. It’s not the whole story, but it’s who I am at my core.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What light inside you have you been dimming?
The light I’ve dimmed the most is the one that says, “I don’t need to wait to be appreciated. I already am.” I’ve spent wonderful years building videos, memories, aesthetics, and moments. I’ve captured joy for others, organized beauty into frame by frame timelines, and stayed up all night editing so that someone else could feel whole when they watched it back the next day. I love that about myself. But somewhere along the way, I started to believe my role was strictly behind the scenes. The light that wants to take up space, not to capture moments but to be the moment, got quieter. I used to race down hills without asking for permission, explore paths I’ve never been down before, and let my thoughts slip out of my mouth before anyone could catch them. But now I’ve caught myself editing those thoughts and pacing myself. I don’t always share my crashes or failures, or how much I pour into everything I create. I’ve dimmed the part of me that shines even when no one’s watching. I’m composed, the brave face, the creative professional, the uplifting presence. Underneath all that, there’s still that young man scribbling his name in a notebook 78 times, not to impress anyone but because he wanted to see himself in a new light. That light, the one that dares to be seen fully, without explanation, is still me. And lately, I’ve been doing the work to let it take up more room. More time. More love. Because I’ve realized I’m more than just a witness to beautiful things, I am one!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mainframephotographs.mypixieset.com/contact/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainframephotographs/
- Linkedin: https://linktr.ee/mainframephotographs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Main-Frame-Photographs/100086142076151/?_rdr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsLERUhQa5gulwDW6pdX6Zg
- Other: Yelp: https://linktr.ee/mainframephotographs
Image Credits
Anthony Sims II, Main Frame Photographs
