Rikki Ramsey of Ventura County on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rikki Ramsey . Check out our conversation below.

Hi Rikki, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A typical day for me starts early. I’m usually up by 6am letting the dogs out and making coffee, then packing my husband’s lunch (clearly earning my #1 wife award for the day).

By around 7am, I’m editing galleries if I have them lined up. I usually chat w my best friend on her commute to work . A few mornings a week I squeeze in a Pilates class and try to be wrapped up with that by 10am.

This year has been especially busy — which I’m incredibly grateful for — so several days a week I’m either heading out to a shoot or prepping for one. Alongside photography, I also manage social media for several local businesses, so my days often include shooting content for them, editing, scheduling posts, and bouncing between my phone and computer. I’m pretty much always on a device of some sort, which is horrible and something I want to work on in 2026.

I also try to stay consistent with creating content for my own page a few days a week. Right now, most of my sessions happen during golden hour, so late afternoons are spent shooting, then heading home to download cards, cull images, and send proof galleries to clients. I usually end the day having dinner and winding down with some South Park w my husband — a very glamorous finale, I know.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Rikki — the photographer behind Rikki Films Things, based in Ventura County, California.

I’m drawn to colorful, eccentric imagery and love using bold color, props, and unconventional ideas. I’ve always gravitated toward projects that feel a little unexpected.

Lately, I’ve been leaning into family photography (something I was once hesitant about), and it’s quickly become one of my favorite things to shoot. I focus on candid moments that unfold naturally, keeping posing minimal and letting real connection lead the way.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
My people-pleasing era. She meant well, but she was exhausted. I confused over-giving with kindness and learned (the hard way) that constantly saying yes doesn’t make you more lovable — just more tired. These days I’m choosing boundaries, matched effort, and relationships that don’t require me to run on empty.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’ve quit a lot of things. Truly. I get inspired, jump in headfirst, and then sometimes realize it’s not something I want to commit to long-term — and I’m okay with that. Photography is the exception. It’s one of the first things I’ve stuck with, consistently worked at, and genuinely want to keep growing in. When you find something that fits, staying with it feels surprisingly natural.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Haha — pretty much, yes. I type how I talk, so if you’ve read my captions, you’ve met me. I call everyone “girlfriend,” my page is curated for my taste (colors, music, graphics), and not to fit a specific aesthetic. If you hear a song on my stories, chances are it’s the same one I’m blasting in the car. I keep it professional with clients, of course, but online I let my personality breathe. Your vibe attracts your tribe — the people who get it, get it.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If immortality were real, what would you build?
If immortality were real, I think I’ve already built it in a way.. The photos I create are meant to live far beyond me- passed down through generations, telling stories and keeping memories alive. My husband and I don’t have children, and in many ways, my photographs are my legacy. Knowing that an image will outlive us and continue to matter is EVERYTHING to me!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rikkifilmsthings.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rikki_films_things/

Image Credits
Rikki Ramsey – Rikki Films Things