Simon combined work, family, and online studies in video marketing in social media, while building a career within video and social platforms. Today, he works strategically with video marketing for the business sector.
When Simon Almås (33) was in the middle of shift work as a police officer in Tromsø, there was little to suggest that he would later run his own limited company within video marketing. Today, he makes a living telling stories for businesses – using camera work, strategy, and social media as his tools. The transition was made possible through a conscious career choice, strong personal effort, and flexible online studies in video marketing in social media at Noroff.
Family Changed His Priorities
Simon grew up in Mosjøen and lives there today with his partner and children. After six years in patrol service in Tromsø, he felt that his life situation was changing.
- When our first child was born, being close to family became more important than shift work. I simply wanted a different everyday life, he explains.
The decision led him back home, and in 2022 he started working as a project manager in the local business development office. At the same time, something else began to grow – an increasingly strong pull toward creativity.
📷: Simon Almås.
Discovered Film and Photography
The interest in photography and film had been there for a long time, but it was during the pandemic that it really took off. Together with colleagues in the police force, he created the song Heimekontor, where he was responsible for both the music and the music video.
- That project became the starting shot. I bought my first mirrorless camera and began photographing landscapes in Troms. I quickly became completely hooked, says Simon.
What started as curiosity quickly developed into a serious commitment. Better equipment, drones, and an increasing number of assignments made the learning curve steep. When he moved back to Mosjøen, he took the step into wedding photography – a demanding genre with little margin for error.
- I probably lacked both fear and a bit of self-awareness, but I went through with it. And eventually, I landed safely on my feet.
📷: Leo Skagen.
Even though the number of assignments increased and his experience grew, he realized that being good with a camera was not enough.
- If I were to build a sustainable income, I needed more than technical skills and gut feeling. I needed professional depth and strategic understanding.
The choice fell on online studies in video marketing in social media at Noroff Vocational School. The application process was quick, and the timing was perfect.
- It was an easy decision. The programme fit perfectly with the direction I was already heading in, he says.
Flexibility Made the Studies Possible
In 2025, he combined a full-time job, family life, his own business, a new house – and full-time studies. It was demanding, but manageable.
- The flexibility of the online programme was absolutely crucial. I could watch lectures and work on assignments when life actually allowed it, while deadlines and expectations were clear.
A typical study day involved work during the day, family time in the afternoon – and studies late at night once the children were asleep.
- There were many evenings with three to four effective hours in front of the screen. Routines and support at home were essential.
📷: Almås.
From Production to Strategy
The programme quickly changed the way Simon worked. Where he previously focused mainly on production, he now gained a holistic understanding of video marketing in social media.
- I quickly realized that being able to film and edit is only a small part of what creates impact. The programme gave me strategic foundation through analysis, channel selection, audience insight, testing, and optimization.
He also highlights the assessment methods as a positive surprise.
- Noroff felt more pragmatic and industry-oriented than much traditional academia. The focus was on real learning and application – not just formal requirements.
I am more confident in dialogue with clients. I don’t just deliver “content” – I deliver a well-thought-out marketing strategy. Almås
More Confidence – and Greater Impact
Today, Simon works far more structured and deliberately with his clients. He thinks in terms of structure, distribution, content reuse, and optimization – and can professionally justify his recommendations.
- I am more confident in dialogue with clients. I don’t just deliver “content” – I deliver a well-thought-out marketing strategy.
The results came quickly. From January 2026, he runs his limited company full-time and has already invoiced significant amounts.
- I would never have achieved this without the strategic foundation I built through my studies at Noroff.
Education for a Busy Everyday Life
Simon believes that online studies are particularly well suited for those who want development without putting life on hold.
- Online studies are perfect if you have a job, a family, or other commitments. But you have to be honest with yourself: flexibility requires structure and discipline.
For him personally, the combination of creativity and strategy has opened new doors – both professionally and personally.
- I went in as a creative guy and came out as both a creative and strategic guy.
See more photos and videos of Simon Almås on his Instagram: @simonalmasphoto.
Study Programmes at Noroff
One-year programme
Video Marketing in Social Media
Hands-on education that teaches you how to create engaging video content for platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Today, there is a high demand for marketers with video production skills.
Online
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Two-year programme
Graphic Design
The programme offers hands-on training that develops both creative and strategic visual communication skills. Through real-world projects, you'll gain practical experience that equips you for immediate entry into the workplace.
Online
Oslo, Kristiansand
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One-year programme
Digital Marketing
Become a digital marketer and create measurable results through online ads, content marketing, SEO and AI tools. The programme focuses on strategic online marketing, analytics and social media.
Online
Oslo, Bergen
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Two-year programme
Film Production
A hands-on programme for individuals aiming to work in the film industry, with a focus on in-depth training in professional equipment. Learn to use AI tools to streamline student productions and prepare for technological innovations.
Oslo, Bergen
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