Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Carter Media Tv
Hi Ryan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have been a working photographer for over 10 years, primarily shooting products and models for most of my career. My journey took a major turn when I pursued formal training at Southern New Hampshire University, where I mastered the art of photography. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that I developed an interest in wildlife photography, and it wasn’t until March 2023 that I purchased a 600mm lens and officially began shooting wildlife on April 3, 2023.
Coming from Watts, California, a place where many never get the chance to leave, I spent years searching for my true artistic focus. I built an extensive portfolio across various photography genres, won awards, gained recognition, and grew a strong following. But something was missing—my place in history. That’s when I discovered wildlife photography, and I finally found where I belonged.
One of the most interesting and unexpected parts of my story is that I became the first wildlife photographer from Watts. I didn’t set out to be the first—I was simply following my passion. As far as I know, I may also be the first Black wildlife photographer from South Central LA. While there may be others in LA County, I come from a different background—one shaped by poverty, gang culture, and inner-city influences. Growing up, I never imagined myself out in the wild, but I pushed past my fears and embraced a world that most people from my community never get to experience.
How did I get here? The answer is simple: consistency and perseverance. I stuck with it, and now, just a short time later, I’ve photographed wildlife across two countries and seven states.
Alongside photography, I’m a raptor specialist, tracking, studying, and documenting their behavior, habitat, and migration. I also built my media brand, Photointelligence, and I’m preparing to launch Keen Vision Podcast, the world’s first outdoors podcast that captures live experiences in the field. On Instagram (@ryancartermedia.tv), my content has gone viral, reaching millions of people.
Today, I continue to push boundaries—whether through tracking raptors, designing cinematic wildlife posters, or creating live nature experiences for audiences worldwide. My journey is far from over, and everything I’ve accomplished so far comes down to one thing: a relentless passion for wildlife and a commitment to sharing it with the world.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all—it’s been a road full of challenges, but each one shaped me into the photographer I am today. Coming from Watts, California, I didn’t grow up surrounded by nature or wildlife. My environment was tough, filled with poverty, gang culture, and limited opportunities, and wildlife photography wasn’t even a thought in my community. There were no mentors or role models in this field for me to look up to, and I had to carve my own path from the ground up.
Early on, my biggest struggle was figuring out my focus in photography. I spent years shooting products and models, and building an impressive portfolio, but I never felt truly connected to my work. When I finally discovered wildlife photography in 2023, I had to start completely from scratch—learning animal behavior, upgrading my equipment, and adapting to a whole new world that was completely different from the controlled studio settings I was used to.
Another major challenge was the financial investment. Wildlife photography is expensive—the right lenses, cameras, travel costs, and gear add up quickly. It wasn’t until March 2023 that I was able to purchase my 600mm lens, a crucial piece of equipment that allowed me to start shooting wildlife seriously.
Then, there was the fear factor—I didn’t grow up hiking through remote areas or being around wild animals. At first, stepping into the wild was uncomfortable, and I had to push past my own fears of the unknown. I also faced doubt from others—people who didn’t understand why someone from my background would pursue this field. But I stayed consistent, kept showing up, and proved to myself and others that I belonged here.
Despite the struggles, I kept going. Now, just coming into my second year in wildlife photography, I’ve already traveled to two countries and seven states, my work has gone viral, and I’ve become the first wildlife photographer from Watts. Every obstacle was a lesson, and every struggle made the journey more meaningful.
Would I say it was a smooth road? Not at all. But was it worth it? Absolutely. One question I get asked a lot—and something I considered myself when stepping into wildlife photography—is about race, since the demographic in this field is very different from what I was used to. But one thing I’ve learned is that when you’re out in the wild, on the road, or exploring nature, you meet people from all walks of life.
Think about it—most people who are hiking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature are in a peaceful state of mind. Being in the outdoors releases endorphins, bringing a sense of calm and connection. In my experience, this is the only place where my appearance or the color of my skin has never mattered. Out in nature, it’s not about who you are—it’s about the shared experience, the love for the outdoors, and the respect for the wildlife we’re all there to witness.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a traveling wildlife photographer, raptor specialist, and author, known for tracking, studying, and documenting the behavior, habitat, and migration of birds of prey. My work captures raptors in action, showcasing their power, grace, and role in the ecosystem through both photography and storytelling. I also create cinematic wildlife posters, blending my expertise in photography and design to present nature in a bold, artistic way.
One of my proudest accomplishments is my second book, Birds Prey Too, which explores raptor migration, climate change, wildlife photography, and much more. It was recently featured in the American Birding Association magazine and has been embraced by birding communities worldwide. In 2025 alone, I have been interviewed five times and have graced the covers of two magazines, further amplifying my work and message.
What sets me apart is my unconventional path. I didn’t grow up surrounded by nature—I’m from Watts, California, a place where wildlife photography is practically unheard of. As far as I know, I’m the first wildlife photographer from Watts and possibly the first Black wildlife photographer from Los Angeles. I had to overcome fears, push past doubt, and carve out my own lane in a field where people from my background are rarely represented.
Through all of my work, my mission is to inspire others to see wildlife differently, no matter where they come from. And the youth of my city needs to see people like me make it out so that they too can someday create their own paths.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Winston Churchill once said, ” The only way to get history is to write it yourself.” So, here I am transcending the realms of photographic limitations. Changing the way wildlife photographers are viewed. Paving the way for generations to come for others to not follow my lead but, apply themselves and become the first to do something meaningful to their respective communities. I’m like Tiger Woods in a way but more like the Williams sisters in tennis because, they are from a city much like my home town and they imposed on an industry unexplored much like myself. I just want to inspire others to think outside the box and dream bigger than their dreams. Stay focused and never give up. Habits matter, principles matter. People think my work is easy but, it’s the decisions that are hard. To get up every day and work as hard as I do is hard. Wildlife photography is more than just taking pictures. It’s like buying a pair of Jordans and thinking you can be Jordan on the basketball court. You can’t go buy the camera I have and be me. You have to put the work in.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ryancartermediatv.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryancartermedia.tv
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryancartermedia.tv
- Twitter: https://x.com/Ryancartermedia
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ryancartermediatv
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryancartermedia.tv https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2884180
