Samurai Media: Creating Impactful Video Content

Two smiling award winners holding multiple Emmy trophies at a National Academy of Television event.

Bio

I'm Samurai Mike, a 14-time Emmy-winning photojournalist with over 20 years of experience in capturing real stories that make a significant impact. From breaking news and in-depth investigations to award-winning documentaries, I’ve had the privilege of working at some of the nation’s most respected newsrooms.

Throughout my career, my work has contributed to changing laws, solving cold cases, and amplifying unheard voices. I've received numerous accolades, including a Peabody, Scripps Howard, and multiple Edward R. Murrow awards for my cinematography, editing, and storytelling. Above all, I am driven by the belief that a powerful story—well told—can create genuine connections.

I founded Samurai Mike Media to bring that same level of craft and care to small businesses, nonprofits, musicians, real estate professionals, and anyone in need of compelling video production without the inflated costs or big-agency barriers. Whether it’s a drone video, a corporate interview, or nonprofit storytelling, I infuse everything I’ve learned in the field into each frame.

On a personal note, I started this business to help fund my wedding and honeymoon. This motivation makes me grateful and ready to hustle—for clients of all sizes and budgets. If you have a story to tell, Samurai Mike is here to help share it with heart and impact.

All Services

Corporate, Non-Profit & Cause-Based Videos, Social Media Content, Cinematography, Editing, Motion Graphics, Drone, Music Videos, Real Estate, Documentary

Drone

As a licensed drone pilot (FAA Part 107), I bring experience and creative perspective to every flight—capturing dynamic aerial shots that add cinematic depth and a vibe you just can’t get from the ground.

Wedding

I capture weddings with multi-camera coverage, wireless mics for clear audio, and candid guest interviews that help tell the full story of your day. To make it even more personal, I compose original music inspired by your favorite artists—giving you a custom soundtrack you’ll never forget.

Corporate

Brand storytelling is about making people feel connected. I use my background in Emmy award winning documentary storytelling at the network level to help companies share their mission through the voices of people. Every video is crafted with a story arc and brought to life with cinematic visuals, motion graphics, and aerial footage that make your message both memorable and meaningful.

Small Business

I’m here to help you zero in on the heart of your message and bring it to life with clear storytelling and polished, professional visuals that reflect the care you put into your work.

Music

I started my career as a music producer and recording engineer, and I’ve been playing in punk and cover bands since I was fifteen—so I know how important it is to capture the energy and vibe just right. Whether it’s a gritty live show or a fully planned-out music video, I help bands look and sound their best with pro visuals and clean audio.

Documentary

My latest Emmy award winning documentary, Recovering From Crisis, was created at the network TV level. I also helped launch Facing Race, a national award-winning program that earned the prestigious Peabody Award for its groundbreaking coverage of race and equity in America.

Testimonials

“I used Mike’s services for a corporate event. He was timely, professional and brilliantly captured the essence of the event. He went above and beyond to capture additional footage, and I would highly recommend his services.” David Weimer, Little Buddy Productions

“Mike made our band’s promotional video production a breeze. He showed up on time, overly prepared, and delivered a stellar end product with great communication, throughout the process. All this and more in a very reasonable amount of time.” Ricky Bradley, The Texas Zephyrs

“Samurai Mike Media was contracted for video services and provided an above and beyond experience. His depth of knowledge and expertise made the production go smoothly and delivered a quality edit that surpassed our expectations. Whenever we have a challenging shoot, Samurai Mike Media is our first call.” Omar Granados

“I have known Michael for many years, but working with him was truly something special. Behind the camera he works with authority and efficiency, which allowed us to to capture a huge amount of footage is a short amount of time. His ability to use a variety of cameras, lighting, and tech made it possible to capture a range of material and in the studio the wide range of raw footage was polished and sculpted to create a beautiful end product. He made the shoot fun and left room for us to provide our insights about our brand and what we wanted to portray.” Jeremy Jacob, Float Wellness Spa/ Evolve Human Optimization Lab

“I’ve had nothing but the best experiences working with Michael Botsford. He’s provided extremely high-quality video work for any project I’ve worked with him on, and exceptional advice with any video-related projects of my own. I cannot recommend his work enough!” Jack Miller, The Punk Historian/Diesel Boy/Me, Grimlock!

“During the development and post release of the CBS documentary “Recovering From Crisis”, Michael was the quintessential of professional, class and determination. My wife, son and I are forever grateful that God enabled our paths to cross. He is indeed a part of our family now!” Christopher Stephenson Sr., Christopher Stephenson Ministries, Founder & CEO

“I had the privilege of collaborating with Michael on the Recovering from Crisis documentary. Throughout the entire project, his exceptional talent, unwavering integrity, and dedication to excellence in his craft stood out at every moment.” Christopher Stephenson Jr.

Awards

National: Peabody: Facing Race; Scripps Howard: Excellence in Broadcast Local Coverage Facing Race; NLGJA: Excellence in Local Television Award for “Transgender Hate & Hope”; National Press Photographers Association: Best of Photojournalism featuring Hard Photo Essay 'Texans Helping Texans.' Additionally, recognized as the National Station of the Year in 2018 and 2019. Regional accolades include the Edward R. Murrow Award for Continuing Coverage titled 'Help That Harms' and Investigative Reporting for 'Broken Trust.' The station has also been acknowledged for its Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through the Indigenous Northwest initiative and for Excellence in Video with the hard news segment 'I Can't Sleep' where a Black newspaper carrier speaks out. Other notable features include a News Series titled 'Facing Race,' Excellence in Video for 'The Talk,' and Feature Reporting on 'Family Secret.' The Continuing Coverage on the Dallas Police Ambush has also received recognition. In the Emmy category, a Photographer was awarded for both Short Form and Long Form content, including 'Recovering From Crisis' in the Environment/Science news segment and 'Stolen Orca.' Continuing Coverage was highlighted with 'Predator on Guard' and the hard news report 'Exclusive: I Can't Sleep: Black Newspaper Carrier Speaks Out.' The emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is evident in the News segment 'Housing Inequity.' The Daily News Report 'She Gave Us Hope' and Public Affairs Program 'Facing Race – Episode 1: Racism and Privilege' further showcase this commitment. In Politics and Government, 'Facing Race – Episode 7: Race, Politics, and Policy' was well-received. Investigative Reports include single stories like the 'UNT Sex Scandal' and 'Jailed to Death,' with the latter being part of an Investigative Series spanning 2019 and 2020. The Education/Schools segment covered 'A Failure to Protect: Criminal Hazing in High Schools,' while a Specialty Assignment Report featured 'A New Kind of Courage.' The Weather segment presented a single story titled 'Texans Helping Texans.' The Headliners Foundation recognized the impactful journalism of 'Jailed to Death,' and the Dallas Bar Association awarded the Stephen Philbin award for the Series/Investigative story. In the midst of all this, we also honor the contributions of individuals like 'Samurai Mike,' who have made a significant impact on our community.

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