Today we’d like to introduce you to Michaelangelo Ramos.
Hi Michaelangelo, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always gravitated to art in one for or another but, I never really had the intentions or goals of becoming a photographer/filmmaker. After dropping out of University of California Davis, I was 18 when I bought my first camera off my uncle a canon t3i for $300. This was in 2012, I really didn’t use for the first few months until I moved back home to Perris where I would begin to take pictures of my friend’s car. Thats when I really fell in love and dedicated a lot of my time to shooting for free. Always trying to get better and better so I did for about two years. I made some great connections and was published in Tuner Magazine twice. Although I loved this craft, there wasn’t a lot of money in the community I was dealing with. After having my first daughter Luna Faye in 2015, I really had to focus on providing for my family. As a responsible parent, I dedicated my time working at Amazon warehouse where I would work hard for three years towards a Manager position only to be mistreated which ultimately led me to walking away. Mind you during this time I stopped taking photos even sold my camera gear to keep up with bills.
In 2017, I had the opportunity to cover a friend’s event due to him injuring himself, he let me use his gear and from there ever since, I steadily grew back my passion for photography. I was around this time I really wanted to try again to make this a good source of income for my family. Now my focus shifted towards weddings and other family events. This was went very well but still wasn’t enough to pay all the bills, that is when I made the decision to fully dedicated myself. I enrolled in Los Angeles Film School October 2017, I saw my future and thought photos are great but what is the next step. Film is one of the oldest forms of entertainment, now with social media and YouTube it is clear that film, video and photos are going to be around along time. Fast forward to now April 5, 2021, I now have two daughters Luna Faye 5 and Penelope Jade 1. I am self-employed and finally three months away from receiving my Bachelor’s Degree.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, but things that are worthwhile never come easy. A lot of trial and error was needed for me to reach where I am today. For me, the hardest struggle was finding the time to balance full-time work, full-time school and full-time father. My time to me is more valuable than money, there was a struggle of having people recognizing what I had to offer. In terms of service and quality of service many people will try to undersell you. When I started out, I was so eager to find new clients that I would accept the low offers just to have a chance to really show my talent.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a visual creative artist that specializes in photography/film. Through these two mediums, I have worked with a variety of individuals in different walks of life. I would have to say Weddings and Quinces are among my top specialties, I have completed about 15-30 of these events since 2017 providing both photography and film services. On the other side my clients, I have worked with San Bernardino Swat team, professional Bellator fighter Johnny “Tattooed” Terror, restaurants, stylists, athletes, nonprofit organizations and more recently YouTube creator Kali Muscle. One of my most proud moments would be flying to Spain for an athletic client. I followed her on a 40hr nonstop endurance race. This would be one of the most challenging and fun jobs I have ever had not sleeping and walking for +15 miles carrying all my gear. Definitely one of the most unique, challenging and fun experiences I have ever had and it was my job. This was a huge turning point for me that instilled confidence in my skills. My work ethic definitely sets me apart. I never give up and even if I cannot solve the issue, I will find the right person to get the job done. Whenever my clients tell me their visions no matter how big or small, I always ask how we are going to accomplish it. My honesty and integrity are huge foundations to my business creating ever lasting relationships with my clients. For me this craft is more than a job, it is truly a passion that I enjoy doing for a living.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I am pretty open about my brand and my story behind it, I share a lot about my life and personal values behind my brand. My dad came to America from Mexico illegally at very young age, defied all odds and had me at 18. Worked four jobs to support me and my mother. Fast forward now both my parents have their master’s degrees. This is the true inspiration behind my company. The determination and never giving up really showed me anything is possible. Even though there is a lot of negative talk around immigration now, I am living proof that migration can be for a better life. Had my grandparents never decided to make that “illegal” decision I wouldn’t here having this interview right now.
Contact Info:
- Email: michaelangelo@elevayted.co
- Website: www.elevayted.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_elevayted_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevaytedphotography
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_7Og0fYE4LxDPrVQ4eP64Q
Image Credits:
Michaelangelo Ramos
