I Create Content That Changes the World

Bio

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

Throughout my career, my work has helped change laws, solve cold cases, and elevate unheard voices. I've been honored with a Peabody, Scripps Howard and multiple Edward R. Murrow awards for my cinematography, editing, and storytelling. But above all, what drives me is the belief that a powerful story—well told—can create real connection.

I started Samurai Mike Media as a way to bring that same level of craft and care to small businesses, nonprofits, musicians, real estate professionals, and anyone who needs compelling video production without the bloated cost or big-agency barrier. Whether it’s a drone video, a corporate interview, or non-profit storytelling, I bring everything I’ve learned in the field into every frame.

On a personal note, I launched this business to help fund my wedding and honeymoon. That means I’m motivated, grateful, and ready to hustle—for clients of all sizes and budgets. If you’ve got a story to tell, I’m here to help tell 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 “Transgender Hate & Hope”

National Press Photographers Association: Best of Photojournalism

Hard Photo Essay Texans Helping Texans

National Station of the Year (2018 and 2019)

Regional:

Edward R. Murrow:

National:

Peabody: Facing Race

Scripps Howard: Excellence in Broadcast Local Coverage Facing Race

NLGJA: Excellence in Local Television Award “Transgender Hate & Hope”

National Press Photographers Association: Best of Photojournalism

Hard Photo Essay Texans Helping Texans

National Station of the Year (2018 and 2019)

Regional:

Edward R. Murrow:

Continuing Coverage Help That Harms

Investigative Reporting Broken Trust

Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Indigenous Northwest

Excellence in Video Hard News 'I Can't Sleep' - Black Newspaper Carrier Speaks Out

News Series Facing Race

Excellence in Video The Talk

Feature Reporting Family Secret

Continuing Coverage Dallas Police Ambush

Emmy:

Photographer - Short Form/Long Form content Recovering From Crisis

Environment/Science - NewsStolen Orca

Continuing Coverage Predator on Guard

Hard News Report Exclusive: I Can't Sleep: Black Newspaper Carrier Speaks Out

Diversity Equity Inclusion - News Housing Inequity

Daily News Report She Gave Us Hope

Public Affairs Program Facing Race – Episode 1: Racism and Privilege

Politics/Government Facing Race – Episode 7: Race, Politics, and Policy

Investigative Report Single Story UNT Sex Scandal

Investigative Report Single Story Jailed to Death

Investigative Series Jailed to Death (2019 & 2020)

Education/Schools A Failure to Protect: Criminal Hazing in High Schools

Specialty Assignment Report A New Kind of Courage

Weather - News Single Story Texans Helping Texans

Headliners Foundation: High-Impact Journalism Jailed to Death

Dallas Bar Association Stephen Philbin award: Series/Investigative story

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