Global inflation rates are rising and the successful designer isn’t the guy with a mastery of Photoshop skills but a knowledge of meeting diverse needs. Meet Alexander Ekeh, a creative powerhouse who started his journey editing photos with PicsArt and has since expanded his expertise to graphic design, video editing, and social media marketing. Fueled by a passion for storytelling and a knack for innovation, Alexander has turned his diverse skill set into a thriving career, blending art and strategy to deliver exceptional results.
In this insightful interview, Alexander discusses the importance of “knowledge stacking”—learning related skills that enhance your core expertise and emphasizes how diversifying within a niche, like graphic design, offers designers a pathway to multiple income streams.
From his creative inspirations to how AI has revolutionized his workflow, Alexander offers invaluable advice for aspiring creatives navigating today’s dynamic economy.
Dive in to explore Alexander’s journey, his take on diversifying skills, and his ambitious plans for the future.
10 Questions with Alexander Ekeh
- Which did you learn first—design or video editing? How did your journey into these fields begin?
Photo editing with PicsArt was my starting point. From there, I moved into graphic design, video editing, and now social media marketing. - What was the learning curve like for each skill, and what challenges did you face?
I was self thought, learnt from YouTube. Some of the challenges I faced was saving up for money to get good equipment. - Did financial reasons influence your decision to combine multiple skills?
No, financial reasons didn’t drive my decision. I started video editing because of my love for making short and inspiring films. Later, I turned those skills into a high-ticket offer. - Has combining design and video editing allowed you to charge clients more or offer unique packages?
Yes! Previously, I only charged clients for social media graphic design. Now, I pitch and charge for both design and video editing packages, which significantly increases my value to clients. - How do you use AI in your work, and has it significantly enhanced your output?
AI has been a life changer for me. From generating prompts for image creation to brainstorming sessions, it’s made my workflow faster and more efficient. I don’t even worry about copyright infringement anymore! - How do you maintain consistency in your creative work?
Honestly, I don’t maintain consistency willingly or consciously. The jobs I get make me consistent! I often have bookings 4 to 5 times a week, which keeps me working throughout the week. It’s a must for me to stay consistent. - What inspires your creativity, and how do you keep your ideas fresh?
Movies, books, going out, traveling, and social media are my biggest sources of inspiration. - If you had ₦1 million to spend on equipment, what would you invest in and why?
I’d use it to run more ads and bring in more clients. - Should graphic designers focus on one skill or diversify into related areas like video editing?
Learn everything if possible—it will come in handy one day. - What’s the future looking like for Alexander Ekeh?
I’m aiming to become the next movie star while also owning my marketing agency, a fintech app, a dating app, and a music streaming app.
Stay Relevant Even During Dry Seasons
The creative industry, like many others, experiences high and low seasons, which impact the demand for certain services. High seasons often include festive periods like Christmas, and New Year, or major sales events such as Black Friday, as well as cultural celebrations, weddings, and corporate branding needs. In contrast, low seasons typically fall in post-holiday months, mid-year lulls, or during economic downturns when budgets are tighter.
Designers who diversify their skills can adapt to these shifts by switching to services in demand for different seasons. For instance, Alexander Ekeh delivers high-demand designs during festive seasons and focuses on content creation during slower periods. This ability to pivot ensures a consistent inflow of work and income throughout the year.
Alexander’s journey is a testament to the power of knowledge stacking—learning complementary skills that enhance your expertise and income potential. In a world where global inflation continues to rise, embracing versatility is no longer optional but essential for long-term success.