Today we’d like to introduce you to Aries Marie.
Hi Aries, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started modeling back in 2018—not because I saw it as a career at the time, but because I was trying to find something that made me feel seen. That same search for identity led me to pick up a camera in 2019. I didn’t know it then, but that moment would change my life. I was just trying to find something for me—to figure out who I was outside of survival. Growing up in South Central LA and Maywood, that’s what it was: survival. But I wanted more. I needed to live for something.
My late Aunt Tina Marie was a photographer, and her spirit honestly never left the lens. She was my quiet inspiration. I think I picked up where she left off, even if I didn’t realize it at first. By 2022, I said it out loud: “I’m going to be a photographer.” But not just a photographer—I wanted to direct, to shape visuals, to create a whole world behind the camera. Photos. Video. Vision. I wanted it all, and I wanted it my way.
My grandparents have always been my anchors. Every time I doubted myself, they reminded me: “What if it works out?” That stuck with me. In 2023, I packed my life and moved to Woodland Hills with no plan B. Just faith, heart, and a fire that’s been burning since the day I realized my dreams had value. No safety net. No guarantees. Just that feeling: I’m supposed to be doing this.
Along the way, I’ve met some of the most amazing creatives—people who became my tribe, my daily inspiration. But the biggest one? My little brother, Jacorion Watkins. He’s why I move the way I move. I care for him with the help of my village, and I carry that love into everything I do. It’s not just about art. It’s about building something that he can look up to.
Now, I’m proud to say I’m a multi-hyphenate creative and media manager. I direct, I shoot, I create, and I collaborate with other artists who understand the grind and the glory. I’m behind the scenes making visions come to life, all while staying rooted in the coast that raised me. West Coast isn’t just where I’m from—it’s in my style, my lens, my storytelling.
This journey isn’t perfect, and it’s still unfolding. But the destination? That’s always been clear. I’m not just creating for likes or trends—I’m building legacy, rooted in love, community, and a belief that art can be the thing that saves you.
And now, I’m here today, doing what I love the most—creating, inspiring, and living with purpose every day.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Smooth? Nah, but that’s what makes the ride worth it! Life’s been like one big lesson in turning obstacles into stepping stones. There were definitely days when I felt like everything was stacked against me—especially when I was juggling self-doubt and figuring out how to make my passion into a career. It wasn’t always clear, but I kept showing up, even when I wasn’t sure where I was going.
One of the biggest struggles was learning to trust myself in a space where I was constantly evolving. Shifting from modeling to photography, then stepping into creative direction, was like learning a whole new language. There were a lot of “Am I doing this right?” moments, but those were the moments that taught me to trust my instincts.
And let’s be real, the financial part was stressful too—when you’re working with creative gear and trying to build something from scratch, the struggle is real. But I learned that the hustle isn’t just about getting things done, it’s about knowing your worth, even when you don’t see immediate results.
Moving to Woodland Hills in 2023 without a plan B? That was scary. But not having a backup made me push harder. It forced me to bet on myself in a way I never had before. I had my moments of doubt, but I’ve always believed that the struggle makes the success so much sweeter.
Above all, though, I’ve learned that growth isn’t about avoiding struggles—it’s about choosing to rise after each fall. And the most important part of that? Building a village that lifts you up, that supports you even when you can’t support yourself. My people, my tribe—they’re the reason I keep going. I’m grateful for them every single day, and I know they’ll keep pushing me until I’m living the life I’ve always dreamed of.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m the founder of M.A.D Films, and I work as a photographer, videographer, director, and creative producer. My work lives at the intersection of culture, community, and storytelling—especially through a West Coast lens. I specialize in capturing moments that feel real and emotionally grounded, whether I’m documenting a behind-the-scenes story, filming a live performance, or building out full visual concepts for artists.
I’m known for collaborating with artists like Ab-Soul, G. Perico, Amanda Reifer, Jiros Vickson, Dave East, Doechii, and Mike & Keys. What I bring to the table isn’t just visuals—it’s vision. I’m intentional about every frame, every angle, every feeling I want the audience to walk away with. My work carries that energy of grit and heart, rooted in where I come from and shaped by where I’m going.
What I’m most proud of is staying true to myself. It’s easy to get caught up in industry noise, but I’ve stayed committed to building something authentic. I’ve created a space where storytelling isn’t rushed—it’s respected. M.A.D Films isn’t just a name; it’s a movement. It represents Making A Difference through art, through visuals, and through connection.
What sets me apart is my ability to see people. Not just in how I shoot them, but in how I listen to them—how I bring their stories to life in a way that honors who they are. I’m not just behind the camera—I’m inside the process, helping craft something meaningful from start to finish. Everything I create is rooted in love, purpose, and a deep understanding of the culture I represent.
Any big plans?
The future feels wide open—and I’m leaning all the way into it. Right now, I’m focused on growing M.A.D Films into a full-service creative house where artists and brands can come for more than just visuals. I want to offer full concept development, production, and creative direction—basically a one-stop space for real, intentional storytelling.
I’m also excited to step further into long-form directing—documentaries, short films, and eventually my first feature. There are so many untold stories that deserve to be captured with care, honesty, and style, and I want to be one of the people telling them.
What I’m really looking forward to is continuing to build with my community. Whether that’s through mentorship, collaboration, or creating space for others to shine, I want to make sure I’m pouring back into the same creative ecosystem that’s poured into me. The vision is bigger now, but the mission is still the same: make art that makes a difference.
Pricing:
- Photography – Starting at $150
- Content Reel Days – Starting at $500
- Media Manager – Starting at $500/mo
- Creative Director – Starting at $600
- Music Videos – Starting at $800
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @sunflowerarii
- Other: Email : [email protected]
