A teenager with vision problems could easily tell himself pursuing a career in video production wasn't a good idea. He could make a lot of excuses and choose something easier.

But instead of taking the path of least resistance, 18-year-old Brent Brantley is winning film contests, started his own video business and even won a $1,000 scholarship related to his video work. He also uses his skills to volunteer at his church and for nonprofits in Baldwin County.

When Brent was 9, he was diagnosed with several medical problems, including tumors in his jawbone, childhood cherubism and a vision condition — convergence insufficiency and accommodative insufficiency.

Because of these diagnoses, Brent had to be homeschooled so he could receive the best care possible. But he and his mother agree — homeschooling set him on the path for success and helped him overcome challenges.

“I'm thankful he had the opportunity to homeschool so we could watch him grow physically, spiritually and emotionally,” says Brent's mother, Donna. “It was also great to learn to teach him a different way. He had to have extra movement. We did things like spelling words on a trampoline.”

The Brantleys also own a petting zoo in Daphne, and Brent was able to develop his social skills by working with children and parents when they came to visit the zoo.

Once Brent's vision was under control — he was diligent with eye exercises — he had no problem developing his interest in video production and even starting his own company, Magical Memories.

“It all started when me and my friend won this contest for Citrin Law Firm that aired on WKRG, CNN and Discovery as a PSA,” Brent says. “Now what I do is I'll go and do weddings, birthday parties, special events, and promos for people like the Daphne Public Library and Prodisee Pantry. And I constantly video for my church.”

And in April, Brent was chosen as a winner of a National Federation of Independent Businesses Young Entrepreneur Award. He was chosen to receive the Bob Riley Young Entrepreneur Award, earning him a $1,000 scholarship. To enter the contest, Brent had to write an essay about his small business, submit a video and complete a phone interview.

The nationwide contest awards 100 scholarships to people from all 50 states. There was only one other winner from Alabama.

Brent plans to attend the University of Mobile in the fall and will major in communications. He hopes he will be able to use video production as a Christian ministry tool in addition to expanding his business.

People profile

NAME: Brent Brantley

AGE: 18

HOMETOWN: Daphne

HOBBIES: Video production, helping run his family's petting zoo

CAREER PLANS: Ministry and video production

Want Brent to film your event?

Contact him at 251-377-9362 or vist BrentBrantley.com for more information.